Can anyone explain the relevance of "Detail type" in setting up Expense categories for someone in the UK environment? It seems relevant mostly to US tax returns.

Understanding detail types can enhance your ability to manage financial information effectively, Duncan. I’d like to take a moment to delve into the concept of detail types and explore their significance in relation to your accounting records.

Each account in your chart of accounts is both an Account type and a Detail type. While account types play a crucial role in the accounting aspects of your records, detail types do not directly affect your financial statements. Instead, detail types serve as a helpful tool for selecting the appropriate account type, particularly for those new to accounting. They also assist in organizing account types into specific categories, making it easy to understand how your money is allocated and utilized.

The Account Types and Detail Types are essential features that streamline your accounting processes. These lists are fixed and cannot be customized when creating new accounts in your Chart of Accounts. Therefore, you'll need to select the Detail Type that best fits your needs, even if it isn't a perfect match. If you're unsure about specific classifications, consult your accountant for guidance.

Moreover, I understand the need for flexibility in adding or modifying Detail Types to suit your accounting needs. This flexibility could improve how you categorize transactions and organize your financial records. Therefore, I encourage you to submit a feature request to QuickBooks regarding this capability. Your feedback can influence future updates and improve user experience.

1. Navigate to the Gear icon.
2. Under Profile, choose Feedback.
3. Enter your feedback suggestion.
4. Hit the Next button. 

Regarding your concern about the different sets of headings available within the software, we can create a subaccount in your chart of accounts instead. This will allow you to categorize and break down your income, expenses, and other account types. Refer to this article for more info: Create subaccounts in your chart of accounts in QuickBooks Online.

I’m providing you with these references to help you gain a better understanding of the various Account Types and Detail Types in your Chart of Accounts within the platform:

• A complete guide to account types and detail types in QuickBooks Online
• Learn about the chart of accounts in QuickBooks Online

Understanding these classifications is essential for effective financial management and can enhance your accounting experience. If you have questions or need help navigating your accounts, share them in the comments. I'm here to assist you.

Thank you Erika_K (employee) but this is a boilerplate reply I've read elsewhere on the forum.

To make it slightly more helpful, you can extend your answer by being very specific about which Detail Type (DT) I should select for "Employee Training Costs" because in my opinion none of them fit.

Next, let me say that the boilerplate did not answer my specific point about what benefit these bring to the UK environment? Or, if that is too difficult, why it is not possible for the company's qualified accountant to edit or amend the list of DTs?

Go on, convince me that they have a purpose and add benefit to your users.