Does the online desktop app only work with certain versions? We had it working but now it won't. We were given it when we converted from desktop.

Hi there, ahill. Let me share some details and make sure you'll be able to log in to the QuickBooks Online (QBO) Desktop App.

Technically, certain versions of the app could also be the reason they no longer work on your new computer. The most recent QuickBooks Online Desktop App file version is 1.20.4. But don't worry, I'll guide you through the steps of downloading and installing it on your new computer.

Here's how:

1. in to your QuickBooks Online account.
2. Go to Settings ⚙. Then choose Get the desktop app.
3. Depending on your settings, you might see the app install automatically.  If not, QuickBooks will prompt you to save the .exe file. If asked, choose where you want to save the file and select Save. Open the QuickBooks Setup file to install.
4. A shortcut to the app gets installed on your desktop. After you install the app, it should open automatically. If it doesn’t, open the app from the shortcut.
5. On the sign-in screen, enter your user ID and password. Then select Sign in.
6. If you see more than one QuickBooks Online company, select the company you want to open. If there isn't a QuickBooks Online company linked to your user ID, an error message will display.
7. The first time you use the desktop app, you’ll see an option to select how QuickBooks is displayed on the main homepage, (you can change this later).
   • If you switch from QuickBooks Desktop and want a similar view, select Yes, let’s go.
   • If you’re already familiar with QuickBooks Online, select No, I already know how to use QuickBooks Online.
8. After selecting your company, you’re all set.

You can also use the direct links below if you prefer to download the installer:
 

• QuickBooks Online desktop app for Mac
• QuickBooks Online desktop app for Windows

I've added this article for more details about the QuickBooks Online Desktop app: Download and use the QuickBooks Online desktop app.

I'd also recommend looking and using supported browsers to access your QuickBooks Online account as an alternative. 

I'll be available if you have any further questions about logging into your company file or with the QBO desktop app. I want to make sure that everything is taken care of. Have a wonderful day!

the problem is i don't see the "get the quickbooks app" when i log in. i just isn't there. we have an essentials license as we are a professional firm that doesn't sell items, just our professional services.

Hi, @ahill-firefly-co.

The QuickBooks Online (QBO) desktop app is only available to QBO Accountant and Advanced users. That's why you're not seeing the "get the QBO app" option on your end. For reference, you can visit this article: Download and use the QuickBooks Online desktop app.

To install the QBO desktop application, you can upgrade your plan to QBO Advanced. Let me guide you how.

1. Sign in to QuickBooks Online as a primary or company admin.
2. Go to the Gear icon, then select Subscriptions and billing.
3. Ensure that your payment info is current and accurate.
4. In the QBO section, choose Upgrade your plan.
5. Go over the available plans and then click Choose plan.
6. Follow the steps displayed on the screen.

Just in case you want to erase your data from QBO in the future, you can visit this article for more guidance: Delete your data and start over in QuickBooks Online.

Please feel free to click the Reply button if you need further assistance with the installation process. I'm here to help.

OK that then explains it, but that doesn't make any sense. When I converted from desktop to online it allowed me to download and use it. I liked that feature. It makes no sense to make it available to only certain subscriptions. It pay a bit more for it's use but not that much more. Really bad idea to allow it to be downloaded and used then not later