Estimates

Hello, ColleenF21.

I understand that you want to link your estimate to the paid invoice. I'll provide you some tips for handling your estimate and invoices efficiently.

The estimate is generally use at the start of a transaction. Linking it to the unpaid or paid invoices isn't possible. You'll have the option to unlink the payment to become an unapplied payment. Afterward, delete the original invoice. Then convert your estimate and apply the unapplied payment. Though it may take some time, I'm confident it will works.

Before doing so, please ensure the Automatically apply credits is temporarily turn off to prevent it from applying to any open invoices your customer may have.

Here's how:

1. Go to the Gear icon, then Accounts and settings.
2. Select the Advanced tab, then go the Automation section.
3. Turn off the Automatically apply credits.
4. Hit Save, then Done.

After that, do the following procedure below:

Step 1: Unlink payment to the invoice.

1. Go to the Sales menu, then All sales tab.
2. Locate and open the payment transactions.
3. Uncheck the invoice from the Outstanding Transactions section.
4. Click Save and close.
5. A pop-up window will appear and choose Save as a credit.
6. Hit Yes, then select Save as a credit again.

Step 2: Delete the invoice.

1. Go to the Sales menu, then All sales tab.
2. locate and open the original invoice.
3. Click More, then choose Delete.
4. Hit Yes to confirm.

Step 3: Convert the estimate to an invoice.

1. Go to the Sales menu, then All sales tab.
2. Locate the estimate.
3. If the status of the estimate is accepted, click the Convert to invoice.
4. If it's not, click the dropdown from the Action column and choose Convert to invoice.
5. Review some details and click Save and close.

Lastly, let's apply the unapplied payment to the converted invoice.

1. Go to the + New icon.
2. Click Receive payment.
3. Ensure to select the right customer from the Customer dropdown.
4. Checkmark the Invoice and the Unapplied payment.
5. Once done, hit Save and close.

Do you need help in creating partial invoice from the estimate? If so, I've added this article to guide you through the process: Set up and send progress invoices in QuickBooks Online.

Let me know if you have further questions or concerns. I'll be around to help you.

Thank you, I assumed it was not an option but was hopeful. 

You're welcome, ColleenF21.

If you need assistance with any QuickBooks processes or are having trouble keeping track of your transactions. Feel free to post again here, and we'll ensure to address all of your questions.

The Community is always available to help you 24/7. Have a great day.