Hello jmars1,
Welcome to Community! When you upgrade to a newer version of QuickBooks Desktop, you’ll also need to update your company files. I'll be glad to help!
To get started, you'll open a sample file, then close the company file. Once the company is closed, QuickBooks will indicate 'no company open'. This will give you the option to Open or Restore your company file. Please refer to this detailed guide.
Should you require additional assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us. It would be our pleasure to work with you in real time, and ensure you're back to business as soon as possible!
If you have any other questions, feel free to reach back out. We would be happy to assist!