Is the Desktop Version of QuickBooks Really Being Discontinued?
Intuit QuickBooks, developed in 1983, is one of the most popular desktop accounting softwares on the market—and for good reason! It’s easy to understand, intuitive, and doesn’t require business owners to have an accounting degree. QuickBooks Online (QBO) was launched in 2001 to take advantage of cloud technology, with features like automatic updates, collaboration tools, and backup redundancy.
Is QuickBooks Desktop going away? No.
QuickBooks is definitely encouraging its customers to move to the online version, but the desktop versions won’t disappear anytime soon. Quickbooks is, however, discontinuing support for the Windows 2020 versions on May 31, 2023. While it will still be technically possible to use QuickBooks 2020, the add-on services and service updates will end. It’s time to make your move to QBO (we recommend this) or upgrade to QuickBooks 2022 or 2023. internet Accountant can help!
I use QuickBooks 2020. What does the discontinuation mean for me?
Simply put, you will no longer be able to access the add-on services of your desktop software, such as online banking, QuickBooks Payroll, live support, etc. More importantly, you will no longer receive software updates or security patches. Take the time now to upgrade, or contact internet Accountant, and we’ll help you get sorted.
Why change to QuickBooks Online?
We don’t work for QuickBooks, but we do like QBO better than desktop. In addition to being the modern, intuitive, cloud-based version of the software, there are a number of other advantages:
- Access from anywhere. You can work on your books from your office, home, phone, coffee shop, or anywhere with internet access. The desktop version has a mobile app, but its features are limited.
- Automatic updates. You always have the latest, greatest, and most secure version of QuickBooks.
- Collaborate! Multiple users, including your accountant or bookkeeper, can access data simultaneously. There is no need to copy or download and send files back and forth.
- Lower cost, sort of. The annual cost of an online subscription is less than purchasing the desktop version.
- Scalability. QBO probably has more features today than you’ll ever use, but there are advanced features (Plus and Advanced) that you can upgrade to as your business grows. QBO also advertises that it integrates with over 750 business apps.
Are there any desktop features missing from QBO?
There are some industry-specific features available on the desktop version, as well as some reporting and complex accounting features that CPAs may appreciate. It also allows you to create sales orders for inventory management. In the vast majority of situations, there are more advantages to switching to QBO than disadvantages.
What does the future hold for QuickBooks desktop?
The proverbial writing is on the wall, and the QuickBooks desktop will eventually follow the typewriter and VCR into obscurity. QuickBooks desktop will be phased out at some point, and ultimately all QuickBooks users will be online. Why wait? If the thought of migrating to a cloud-based system gives you heartburn, let us help! Our experts will manage the transition process, ensuring a successful and seamless migration. Contact iA today and meet with one of our QuickBooks experts.
