For Intuit Online Payroll, how do I change the expense account debited for employer 401k contribution and not use new account created by QBO Co. Contrib.-Ret (too long)?

You'll want to create your expense account first, angelasanderscpa.

Create a new account in your chart of accounts in QuickBooks Online with these steps:

1. Click the Gear icon.
2. Select Chart of Accounts.
3. Select New, then choose the account type.
4. Find the detail type that fits your account or the transactions you want to track. Learn more about detail types if you have questions.
5. Give your new account a name. You can use the info under the detail type to add a name that fits. You can also add a description.
6. Select Save and Close.

Once the account is created, go to the payroll setting preference to change the expense account. Here's how:

1. Click the Gear icon.
2. Select Payroll Settings.
3. Click Preferences, then Accounting Preferences.
4. Locate the expense account you want to change. Click the drop-down and select the newly created account.
5. Scroll-down to click OK.

Check this article to learn more: Payroll accounting preferences.

I'll be right here if you got more questions.