I need to restore a backup from a desktop version of Quickbooks, but I only have Quickbooks online. How do I restore it

You don't have to worry if you only have the Online version, @mike304. You've got my back to help you resolve this.

You can use the Desktop trial version and from there. Before you start, make sure your computer meets the minimum requirements to install QuickBooks.

You just have to click the link you want to use. Save the install file somewhere you can easily find it, like your Windows Desktop.

QuickBooks Pro 2021

Use these codes to install QuickBooks Pro 2021 trial:

• License #: 0421-9621-3866-298
• Product #: 989375

QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise 21.0

• You don't need any codes to open the trial.

QuickBooks Mac 20201

• You don't need any codes to open the trial.

From there, export your transactions to QuickBooks Online. Here's how: 

1. Sign up for any QuickBooks Online product that suits your business.
2. Set up your account by following the welcome interview process.
3. You can only import QuickBooks data within 60 days of your QuickBooks Online start date.
4. If you're using QuickBooks Desktop, migrate your file to QuickBooks Online. If you're unable to migrate your file, use Intuit's migration form and submit a copy of your file. If you're using another software, Odyssey can help migrate your file.
5. Once your file is ready, we'll send you an email notification.
6. Review your data using the post-conversion checklist for getting started with QuickBooks Online. If everything looks good, you can start using your new QuickBooks Online company file.

For more information, feel free to check out this article: Import from QuickBooks Desktop and other software to QuickBooks Online.

You also have the option to manually import bank transactions to your QuickBooks Online.

Know that you're always welcome if you have other concerns. I'll make sure to help you out. Have a blessed day.

@mike304 

Which QB Desktop year and country version did you have when creating the backup file?

The trial version only allows you to open a full file.  How do you restore the back up copy using the Trial Version of Enterprise?

Thanks for following this thread, @Michelle170. As an additional insight, you'll need to restore your data on the same version and edition as the original file so it will show.

For instance, QuickBooks Pro 2015 backup needs to be restored to the same edition and year. You also want to upgrade the backup to the current QuickBooks version by jumping 3 versions. For example, you can restore a 2015 backup to a 2018 version. 

You can check out this article for the steps: Restore a backup of your company file. 

Let us know here if you have other questions about managing your company file. We're always here to help.