Hi there, randrrvpark.
Thanks for reaching out, and congratulations on switching to QuickBooks Online QBO. That’s a great move.
The common reason for this is that the card reader made for QuickBooks Desktop isn’t compatible with QBO’s web version on a PC. QBO’s in-person payments use a wired USB card reader built for QBO. Bluetooth card readers, for example, the QuickBooks Reader or GoPayment Reader, pair via Bluetooth with the QBO mobile app or the GoPayment app on a phone or tablet.
To learn more about using a card reader with QBO and a compatible USB reader, refer to this article: Set up a card reader. This should help you decide which reader to choose for an upgrade.
If you have any other questions about payments, please feel free to ask. I’m happy to help.