My bookeeper retired and sent me a portable file going forward, how do I access it?

Glad to have you here in the Community, 486alpha.

I'm here to make sure you'll be able to open or restore the files using QuickBooks Online.

I just want to clarify, are you referring to the portable file from QuickBooks Desktop? If so, we're unable to directly import it to QuickBooks Online. What I can suggest is to open the file in QuickBooks Desktop. From there, we can move the data into your QuickBooks Online account.

If you don't have one, you can download and use a QuickBooks Desktop trial version. Once done, you can now proceed with exporting the data from QBDT to your QBO account. 

Here's how:

1. Open portable company file in QuickBooks Desktop.
2. From the Company menu, then select Export Company File to QuickBooks Online.
3. Select Start your export. On the pop-up, sign in to your QuickBooks Online account.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

For good practice, you can reconcile your account to ensure the accuracy of your books.

You can always get back here in the Community if you have more questions about managing your data. Take care and have an awesome day!

@486alpha 

Ask your accountant, which QB Desktop year version she/he has. You can purchase QB Desktop 2020 or 2021 with the one time license if required.