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WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I have been using QB since 1995.   I absolutely do NOT want to move to online.   With the notification today that at the end of May my version will not be supported, I am at a loss as to what to do now. I would gladly upgrade to newer desktop version than 2021, but all roads, including support, chats and sales seem to lead only to Intuit pushing online.   Only a couple weeks ago I had to pay $689 to continue using enhanced payroll for two employees.  As a micro-business, this is getting ridiculously expensive and frustrating.  I need a feasible solution quickly, or viable alternatives.  Hoping that some of your may have discovered a resolution to this problem so many of us now have.  Thank you.

      

23 Comments 23
Rasa-LilaM
QuickBooks Team

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Thank you for dropping by the Community today, WSInc.

 

I recognize how important it is for your company to find a feasible solution to get your business up and running. I'm here to offer assistance on how to upgrade to the newest QuickBooks Desktop version. 

 

There are several ways to switch to a newer version of QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT. Check out the following information:

 

Before upgrading the desktop program, make sure your computer meets the system requirements. This way, it's compatible with your setup and ensures the best desktop experience. Aside from that, create a backup copy of your company file before switching to a newer version to prevent any accidental loss. 

 

When you open your QuickBooks, you'll be notified about the availability of a new version. We've streamlined the upgrade process to make it convenient for you:

 

  1. When you’re ready, click the Upgrade Now button.
  2. Choose Keep old version on my computer if you want to keep your current QuickBooks.
  3. Select Let’s go and then QuickBooks downloads, installs, and activates the new version for you, including the company file.
  4. Once completed, tap the Open QuickBooks button.

 

Please note the process may take some time, and it also depends on your internet speed and the size of your company file. If you're unable to see a prompt to upgrade your desktop subscription, configure your one-time message prompts. Here's how:

 

  1. In your company file, head to the Edit menu at the top bar and choose Preferences.
  2. Go to the General menu and select My Preferences.
  3. Tick the Bring back all one-time messages box and click the OK button.

 

Next, close and reopen your QuickBooks for the changes to take effect. A notification will be given to prompt you to upgrade your subscription. 

 

Aside from that, you can get the latest version of the desktop program from the QuickBooks Desktop Manager. From there, choose and install all your QuickBooks products.

 

Explore this article to learn more about t switching to a newer version of the desktop program: Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Enterprise

 

After completing all the necessary steps, update your company file to ensure it functions properly in the latest versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Enterprise

 

Now that you have the latest desktop program, you can now begin navigating through it. Regarding your payroll service, download the latest tax table version to get accurate rates and calculations for federal and supported state taxes, payroll tax forms, and e-file and e-pay options.

 

Here's an article that provides details about the latest features and improvements: What’s new in QuickBooks Desktop 2024?

 

If you encounter any hurdles during the installation process or need more information on how to deal with a specific task, the following links provide tools and solutions to help you fix them, as well as online tutorials to get acclimated to the desktop program:

 

 

Stay in touch if you have additional questions about upgrading your QuickBooks or getting your way around the product. I'm always available to provide the assistance you need. Have a good one, WSInc.

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@WSInc 

You can purchase QB Desktop 2024 Pro Plus from selected partners. It starts from $650 for single user. You can get $100 cashback if eligible.

WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I have never had a subscription, and do not want one now.   

WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Thank you for the response.   I do not want a subscription, just upgrade to a newer version if necessary (2022, 2023, etc.)  or come up with another work around to continue with 2021.

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@WSInc 

You have renewed the subscription of Enhanced Payroll, correct? You can't use it with QB Desktop 2021 after May 2024. Another option, you can still use QB Desktop 2021 + a stand alone payroll app and you will register your payroll expenses as JE in QB Desktop later.

WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Yes, I already paid $689 (yikes!!!) just a couple weeks ago.  We only have two employees.  If I can find a feasible, simple payroll solution I would just do bank feeds, etc. manually.    It's unreasonable to pay so much, and then be hit with this issue.  

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

jenungar
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I find it incredibly frustrating as well.  I have a very small business.  I paid for the desktop version several years back.  I don't want to pay monthly for this.  I am tempted to just keep using my desktop version and hope for the best.  I don't know what happens, however, when my IOS is continually upgraded.  Will that affect QB?  It's just another money maker.

 

MirriamM
Moderator

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Hello there, Jen.

 

Your experience with QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) is dependent on the system requirements. If your IOS continually upgrades, then it may impact your QuickBooks Desktop account. On the other hand, if your computer meets the necessary criteria, then there should be no impact on your software.

 

To know more about the system requirements for your QBDT for Mac, see these articles:

 

 

You may need help managing your account or transactions in QuickBooks Desktop for Mac. You can read this user guide for more guidance: QuickBooks Mac Plus 2022 User's Guide - Intuit.

 

I'm always ready to provide additional assistance for any QuickBooks concerns you may have. Please don't hesitate to get back here.

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@jenungar 

Do you have QB Desktop 2021 for Mac with a non subscription license?

Which MacOS do you run? Sonoma or older?

jenungar
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I have the minimum requirements because I have been using the product for years on my MacBook Air.  I worry that if I don't go to the Online platform, my software will just stop working as I upgrade my IOS.  Not sure of the interplay of the two

jenungar
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I have Quickbooks Desktop Mac 2021 with a one user license.  I am running Sonoma 14.4.1 currently.

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@jenungar 

You can stay to run QBD 2021 on Sonoma for good. Make sure not to upgrade your MacOS to avoid problems. Otherwise, you may consider to purchase QBD 2024 Mac Plus to upgrade your version.

WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

MirriamM - perhaps since you are "always ready to provide additional assistance for any QuickBooks concerns you may have."  you can address my issue from the original post with a feasible solution.

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@WSInc 

You may have 2 options:

1. Purchase QB Desktop 2024 Pro Plus/Premier Plus + Enhanced Payroll. They will support them until 2027.

2. Keep your QB Desktop 2021 + a stand alone payroll app after May 2024. You will register payroll expenses as JE in QB Desktop. Your Enhance Payroll will be useless after May 2024.

Thomas35
Level 1

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I am in the same boat - this is ridiculous.  Then when you call to update the 2021 to 2024 they ask you so many stupid questions.  I spent 2 hours just trying to get to talk to someone to find where to update and never got that accomplished.  I have work to do!  I can't be on the phone for a day trying to get this done.  I don't always have an internet connection when working so this online business doesn't work for me and also its WAY to expensive.

Thomas35
Level 1

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

your instructions don't work to upgrade the desktop version!!!!

ds92
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

I've been using quickbooks desktop for more than 20 years.  We use IPN and send invoices to customers, so around 10 years ago Intuit started to force us to upgrade every three years.  We've had QB 2016, 2019, 2021.  The last desktop (premier, 4 users) was $1100, and lasts three years, so $367 annually.

 

Now my only choice is desktop subscription, and even that would go away in a few months.  BTW QB online doesn't do many of the things I need so don't get me started in that.  The 2024 QB premier subscription is $1850 annually for 4 users.  That five times the cost of the previous system. 

 

Blatant gouging.  Intuit is an evil company.  Needless to say we'll be looking to move off QB when we get a chance.

WSInc
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Exactly!!

4Gal
Level 11

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

@ds92 

You have QB Desktop 2021 with a non subscription license, correct? Why do you have to upgrade your version?

ds92
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Because the ability to email invoices to customers and also IPN is removed after 3 years.  To force you to upgrade.  To get more money out of you.  And that looks lame in comparison to the cash grab underway now.

ds92
Level 2

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Because the ability to email invoices is removed after three years.  As is Intuit Payment Network.  To force you to upgrade.  The extract more money out of you.  But that is lame compared to the cash grab underway now.

redrockenter
Level 1

Quickbooks Desktop Pro 2021

Two hours for me yesterday just updating from 2021 to 2024.  Absolutely absurd.

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