I want to change my accounting method. The system tells me to select options that don't exist. How do I change to cash accrual?

Good day, @russelllroth-gma.

In QuickBooks Online, there are only two types of accounting methods. The accrual and the cash basis. Let me walk you through on how to change it in the system.

Here are the steps:

1. Go to the Gear icon. 
2. Choose Account and settings.
   
3. Select the Advanced tab, then click the pencil icon under Accounting.
   
4. Change the method and press on Save.
   

You can sign out and log back in if the system keeps on telling you to select an option that doesn’t exist. You can also try other supported browsers except for Internet Explorer.

You might want to check these resources to learn more about accounting methods and its difference when running reports in QBO.

I’ll be here if you need more help. Take care. 

I have QB 2017 not online version. How can I change the accounting method from cash to accrual?

How do I change accounting method from accrual to cash for QB2017 desktop version?

Thanks for joining in on this conversation, @sp. Let me provide the difference between cash and accrual methods and show you how we can switch between them in QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2017.

The primary distinction between accrual and cash basis accounting is the timing of revenue and expense recognition. The cash basis allows businesses to record income and expenses only when cash is received or paid. Whereas, the accrual basis records revenues when they are billed (unpaid) and revenues when they are earned. 

Here's how to set your preferences:

1. Log in to your file as the Admin and ensure you're in a Single-User Mode.
2. Go to the Edit menu and select Preferences.
3. Click Reports & Graphs, then select the Company Preferences tab.
4. In the Summary Report Basis section, select Cash.
5. Please click OK.

Moreover, different reports are available in QBDT to meet your company's demands. It uses a report as a series of instructions to present information from your company file. We can run them by clicking the Reports in the menu bar. 

Keep in touch with us if you have more questions about the accounting methods. Just leave a reply below, and we'll be there right away to attend to your concerns. Have a nice day!