Moving data efficiently between different QuickBooks products is crucial. Allow me to provide some details on handling this matter.
It's important to note that transferring data from QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) to QuickBooks Self-Employed (QBSE) isn't possible, as QBSE is specifically designed for freelancers and self-employed individuals. Furthermore, migrating data from QuickBooks Online (QBO) to QBSE is also not supported and requires a migration tool or third-party app that can transfer information automatically. Otherwise, you'll need to enter the data manually.
However, I can guide you on data migration from QBDT to QBO. Before moving the QBDT file to QBO, you have 60 days to transfer your data from creating your QBO account. Also, ensure your QuickBooks is up-to-date and your company file is manageable to export.
If your QBDT version is 2020 or older, you can move your data to QuickBooks Online with an online tool. If you have a newer version, follow the steps below:
1. Log in to your QBDT account as an admin.
2. Navigate to the Company menu and select Export Your Company File to QuickBooks Online.
3. Click on Get started and sign in to your QBO account as an admin.
4. Choose the online company you want to replace with your company file and click Continue.
5. If you track inventory in QuickBooks Desktop, select Yes to bring them over and enter the as-of-date.
6. Enter Agree in the text field, then select Replace.
7. Hit Yes, go ahead and replace the data, then tap Replace.
For detailed instructions, read this article: Move your QuickBooks Desktop file to QuickBooks Online.
It would be best to complete your taxes before the data migration since sales tax may not be copied for all transactions. Some taxes will be copied as journal entries. You may observe differences in sales tax when you import your QBDT company file into QBO. The balances of accounts payable or accounts receivable accounts may differ because the QBO system won't use these accounts. Instead, it creates a new expense account that retains the amount owed/owing to tax agencies. Furthermore, the liability accounts used to track sales tax in QBDT will show different balances in QBO.
Additionally, to import your data from QBSE to QBO, you need to download your transactions in a CSV file from QBSE and manually upload them into QBO. For detailed guidance, refer to this article: Switch from QuickBooks Self-Employed to QuickBooks Online.
This reference helps you determine which features transfer to QuickBooks Online and which don't: Learn how features and data move from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online.
I'll circle back to you if you have further inquiries about managing data in QuickBooks. I have resources that I'm ready to share if necessary. Have a good one.
