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Everything you need to know about the QuickBooks Online desktop app

by Intuit•5• Updated 3 months ago

The QuickBooks Online app is a Windows/Mac app that you can be installed on your a computer and use to access QuickBooks Online. The QuickBooks Online app offers added flexibility to access your account in the manner that best suits your needs; be it via a web browser or through the app. It also keeps you signed in for up to 6 months and to open QuickBooks Online in multiple tabs and switch between multiple companies.

For step-by-step instructions, here’s how to download and use the app.

If you're migrating from Desktop to Online and QuickBooks Online Advanced

What are the system requirements to download the app?

Windows 64-bit computer
QuickBooks Online Advanced or QuickBooks Online Accountant company

How do I access the app?

When logged into your QuickBooks Online Advanced or QuickBooks Online Accountant account, the application can be found by selecting the ⚙️ gear icon. There you’ll find the QuickBooks Online Desktop app link under Get the desktop app.

For step-by-step instructions, here’s how to download and use the app.

Is there a Mac version of the app available?

Yes, the app is available for both Mac and Microsoft Windows computers.

What are the key features in the app?

Open QuickBooks from the app shortcut on your computer
Stay signed in longer
Move between different QuickBooks Online companies
Open multiple tabs or windows at the same time
Access the navigation map

For Desktop customers:

Shorten your learning with interfaces you know in Desktop with the navigation map
Get to know QuickBooks Online quickly with the familiar workflows and features

Will I have a shortcut on my Windows desktop after the app is installed?

Yes, after you install the app a shortcut automatically downloads to your desktop.

Can all users on a QuickBooks Online subscription access the app?

Yes, all active billable users in a QuickBooks Online subscription can access the app.

I use the previous version of the Desktop App and I want to update to the latest app. What do I need to do?

If you’re using the previous version of the app, it will still work until your browser no longer supports it. The new QuickBooks Online app will work for QuickBooks Online customers and accountants using QuickBooks and includes added enhancements. Both app versions can work side-by-side and your information will synchronise across both apps.

Is there an additional cost to this app?

No, the app is included with your QuickBooks Online subscription.

Does the app work without an internet connection?

No, you must be connected to the internet to use QuickBooks Online with the app.

Where can I access app support?

Support options remain consistent with the current QuickBooks Online offerings. You can access Help within your QuickBooks Online account or at our Support site.

Does everything I enter in the app synchronise with the web version?

Yes, all your information and activities remain synced across both access points.

For QuickBooks Online Accountants

As an accountant, what are the system requirements to download the app?

Windows 64-bit computer
QuickBooks Online Advanced or QuickBooks Online Accountant company

As an accountant, where can I get the app?

You can find the app while logged into your QuickBooks account by selecting the ⚙️ gear icon. There you’ll find the QuickBooks Online app link.

What products can I use with the app for my client’s books?

All QuickBooks Online subscription products will work within your QuickBooks Online app.

How will I access my client’s books?

You can use the app to access clients who are using QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Online Advanced subscriptions. These accounts will show in your client list in QuickBooks Online Accountant as they currently do in the web version.

Can my clients use the app?

Yes, clients using QuickBooks Advanced can use the app just like you do from your desktop computer.

How do my clients download the app?

For QuickBooks Online Advanced users, the app can be found while logged into their QuickBooks account by selecting the ⚙️ gear icon. There they will see the QuickBooks Online app link under Get the desktop app.

QuickBooks Online EssentialsQuickBooks Online PlusQuickBooks Online Simple Start