QB2018 vs 2021

It's good to see you here in the Community, @Janet32.

I've got some insights about transferring files from QBDT 2021 to 2018.

Once a company file is converted to a new QuickBooks version, it can no longer be opened to any older version. However, if you want to use the earlier version, you can restore a backup file created for that version.

I suggest you check out these articles for the detailed steps:

• Restore a backup of your company file
• Create and open portable company files in QuickBooks Desktop

Keep me posted if you have further questions about QuickBooks and restoring company files. I'm always here to help. Stay safe!

@Janet32 

You can purchase a 3rd party rollback service to open the file on QBD 2018. But for your case, it would be better for the the new treasurer purchasing a one time license of QBD 2021.

I have QB 2021, I have a file that was sent to me and I processed an entire year of infomation for my client.

I sent them a portable file and then realized they can't open it becuase they have QB 2018!  So now all my work is wasted becuase they can not open the file.  What can I do?  They do not want to pay the money to update their QB to 2021 (and I agree,,,!)  

I can share some information that'll help your client open the portable file you've created, @TBouchard384.

You can recommend that your customer obtain a free trial edition of QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2021. They can use it for free for the first 30 days.

Just let them make sure that their computer's operating system, hardware, software, and other requirements are compatible to run QuickBooks Desktop 2021.

From here, they can get the installer and then install the file. Then, activate it. For detailed guidance, you can send these articles to your client:

• Install QuickBooks Desktop
• Activate QuickBooks Desktop for Windows
•  

Then, go to this article: Download a trial of QuickBooks Desktop to get the license and product number to activate it successfully. 

They can now follow this article to import the file you've prepared into their company file:  Import your accountant's changes into your company file in QuickBooks Desktop.

If they do not want to download the free trial version, you can instruct them to look for a third-party app that will allow them to open the file you've prepared. You can send them this link:  Apps for QuickBooks Desktop to look for a supported third-party app.

In case you'll encounter any errors creating a portable file, check this reference on how to fix it: Fix portable company file issues in QuickBooks Desktop. 

I'm always available if you need more assistance or guidance with your portable file. Simply let me know in the Reply section below. Have a good day and stay safe!

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@TBouchard384 wrote:

They do not want to pay the money to update their QB to 2021 (and I agree,,,!)  

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@TBouchard384 

If they refuse to upgrade, you will pay the price with the following option:

1. Purchase a one time license of QBD 2021 for them. You don't need to rework anything, or

2. Purchase a one time license of QBD 2018 for you at a lower price and you will rework the file.

3. Purchase a one time license of QBD 2019 Accountant for you and you will rework the file.