Can I access a 2012 file with 2009 software?

No. You can utilize the trial version for QBD 2012 Pro if required.

Welcome to Community, Gtax77. 

I'm here to help share insights about accessing a 2012 file with 2009 software in QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT).

QuickBooks Desktop has company file limitations when using it for another product, version, or edition. For the time being, you're unable to downgrade the file, unless you have a backup copy of the 2009 file. You can check out this article to know more about file compatibility in QBDT: Company file limitations when upgrading to another product.

If you can get a trial for 2012, I suggest contacting our Customer Care Team for assistance. You can follow the steps below on how to reach them:

1. Open QuickBooks.
2. Go to Help, then select QuickBooks Desktop Help.
3. Select Contact Us.
4. Give a brief description of your issue, then select Let's talk, and then choose a way to connect. Phone support may be limited due to volume.

Also, you can utilize the trial license for QB Desktop 2022 to give you more time to upgrade your version: How to Upgrade Company File in QuickBooks Desktop?

Furthermore, check out the links below on how to restore company files and import data in QuickBooks: 

• Restore a backup of your company file
• Import and export data in QuickBooks Desktop.

Let me know if you need further assistance in managing your company file in QBDT. I'm here to back you up. Take care and have a good one.

Thank you

Thank you for your help.

Our pleasure, Gtax77.

I'm glad that you can now access your QuickBooks Desktop 2012 file.

Know that you can always come back to the Community if you need help again in the future doing a task to your account. Have a good one.