Hello there, wendyreed.
Let me help you fix the error you're getting and be able to merge duplicates accounts in QuickBooks Desktop. We'll need first to manually edit those transactions to the new customer name. Afterward, we can go through the process of merging accounts.
Here's how to edit the transactions:
- Open the account where the transaction is recorded. Go to Lists, and select Chart of Accounts.
- Double click the transaction.
- Edit the name or assign it to the new customer name.
- Then, Save &Close.
Then, merge the duplicates accounts again:
- Copy the name of the account you want to keep.
- Right-click the entry you don’t want to use. Then, select Edit.
- Paste the name you copied.
- Click Save & Close.
- Select Yes to merge the account.
Check here for more details. Also, if you need additional details about handling accounts within your company file, feel free to check this article: Learn more about the chart of accounts in QuickBooks.
Stay in touch if you need more details. Take care and stay safe always.