Problem with P/L Expense for New Inventory?

Hello there, nancyl.

I'd like to share some insights on how Profit and Loss (P&L) report works in QuickBooks Desktop.

When you run the P&L report and open the Transaction Detail by Account through the Expense account, it's normal to see both Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable. This is because the report is designed to show double-entry to know which accounts are being debited and credited.

Learn more about customizing reports in QuickBooks Desktop through this article: Customize reports in QuickBooks Desktop.

On the other note, the increase in total of your expenses is caused by unnecessary transactions that contributes the increase, such as bills and checks. That said, I suggest you review all the expense transactions to identify what's causing the increase.

Let me know if you need more help. I'm always happy to lend a hand. Wishing you the best of luck!

I think you just saved my job!  My boss was insisting it was wrong.  The only other question I have is why are there some items cost on some of the customers invoices? These invoice are paid.  

I appreciate you getting back to us, @nancyl.

It's possible that some of the items have a cost amount associated when creating them that's why it's showing on the customer's invoices. Let's check each item to ensure these items have a cost amount associated.

First off, go back to the invoices and take note of the item used. Once done, let's go to the Item List window and verify if each item has a cost amount. Here's how:

1. Go to the Lists menu, then select Item List.
2. Find and open the item used for the invoice.
3. In the Purchase Information section, check the Cost field if there's an amount.

Once verified, it's the reason why you're seeing Cost in your customer's invoices even if it's paid.

Just in case you want to send online invoices, feel free to check out this article for the detailed steps and information: Send online invoices in QuickBooks Desktop.

Please keep in touch if there's anything else I can do to help you succeed with QuickBooks. I've got your back. Have a great day and keep safe.

Thanks so much!  I was going to check that out.  We do have a lot of items with no cost but considered new inventory.  This is the way the boss wants it.  I'm sure that issue is also playing havoc with the reports also. 

Thanks so much for your time and information.  Tomorrow first thing I will go over everything you've offered me. Your the best!