How do I add a fixed asset account? I can only add sub account under already existing assets accounts.

Welcome to the Community, blehman.

I can show you how to add a new account.

Before we start, did you receive a specific error message? It will help me identify if we have related issues reported in the system. Also, I can walk you through the correct steps on how to fix the issue.

There are times that the browser stores frequently accessed data, thus causing websites, like QuickBooks Online (QBO), not to function well. Let's perform some troubleshooting steps so you can create a new Fixed Asset account and save it without issues.

Let's try logging in to your QBO account using a private. To use a private browser, here's how:  

• Press Ctrl + Shift + N on your keyboard for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
• Press Command + Shift + N for Safari. 

Once logged in, go back and try to add a fixed asset account. Let me show you: 

1. Click the Accounting menu and select Chart of Accounts.
2. At the upper-right, click New.
3. Select Fixed Asset under Account type and then the Detail type.
4. Enter a name for the asset account and then click Save and Close.

If you're able to save it, you can switch back to the main browser and clear the cache to refresh the system. If you get the same result while using a private browser, I recommend switching to a different one.

You'll want to check out these articles to know more about adding accounts in QuickBooks Online: 

• Learn about the chart of accounts in QuickBooks
• Connect bank and credit card accounts to QuickBooks Online

Feel free to visit us again if you have any other questions about managing your accounts in QuickBooks. We're always here to help.

The issue is difficult to explain.

there are fixed assets such as land or buildings. I can not add an account similar to that. must be a sub account under those type accounts. An example is patents are long term intangible assets. I can not add a patent account without putting it under an already existing account such as buildings, long term office equipment etc.

It is best shown not typed.

I can not change account type. when I click new it says "new category" and I must click income, expense, etc. then it says "create account under" which I then must choose another category like building, or long term liability etc.

Thanks for getting back to us and adding a screenshot, @blehman.

Based on the image that you've shared with us, it looks like you're using the Simple Start subscription in QuickBooks. 

All of the accounts created in this subscription will automatically be categorized as sub-account. This is the reason why you're unable to create a parent account in the program.

For more account personalization options, I'd recommend upgrading your subscription. You can check our available plans here: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/pricing/.

Moreover, your chart of accounts gives you different account types to categorize transactions into. To learn more about it, simply click this article: What account types are on the chart of accounts.

Let me know if you need further assistance with this. I'm always around to provide answers and clarifications to your questions. Have a great day ahead and take care.

@ReymondO, "All of the accounts created in this subscription will automatically be categorized as sub-account. This is the reason why you're unable to create a parent account in the program." I beg to disagree. This has nothing to do with the quickbooks plan, but the view.

@blehman, switch to Accountant view and create an intangible fixed asset account.