QuickBooks Desktop is being discontinued - what are my alternatives

QuickBooks Desktop Service was discontinued on 31 May 2022 - and completely phased out by 1 February 2023 

Small and medium-sized businesses using Quickbooks desktop for accounting and related business processes must find alternatives following the phasing out of the service from May 31, 2022. 

With the UK tax system transitioning to online submission processes (Making Tax Digital {MTD}), the QuickBooks team are stopping the desktop version because they fear that the platform may expose their customers to risks of using out-of-date and MTD non-compliant software.  

To remain compliant, you must find and migrate to a more suitable and efficient cloud accounting software. 

What does QuickBooks service discontinuation mean? 

Discontinuation means access to QuickBooks Desktop services will stop, and you will not receive any software updates. Examples of these services include Payroll Services, Online Banking, Online Backup, and Live Support. The QuickBooks team will also not send security updates to your QBD software – leaving your data exposed. 

Can I Switch to QuickBooks Online following QuickBooks Desktop discontinuation? 

Yes, you can migrate to QuickBooks Online. Unlike QuickBooks desktop - the QuickBooks Online version is an all-in-one accounting software that integrates with other accounting platforms and apps to give you more robust functionality for your business. The platform allows you to automate your business practice activities like bookkeeping, tracking your sales and payroll tax and saves you time when managing your accounts. 

However, QuickBooks Desktop may offer some services not available in QuickBooks Online. In that case, it is crucial to opt for an accounting system that will meet all your business requirements. 

What are my Quickbooks Desktop accounting software alternative options? 

If you are using the QuickBooks desktop version, you must find an alternative solution before the discontinuation date of midnight 31 January 2023. Luckily, there are alternative accounting software you can migrate to. Some of your alternatives may include: 

• Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online. 
• Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to Zoho Books. 
• Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to Xero. 
• Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to Sage Business Cloud Accounting (Sage One). 

Tips for finding the best QuickBooks accounting software alternative – and having a smooth transition 

If you intend to move from Quickbooks to alternative accounting software, here are a few tips to consider: 

• Research the best alternative for your business - based on your needs. It is prudent to find a cloud-based system that is MTD compliant, meets all your business accounting needs, has subscription pricing within your range and offers you support and guidance on using the software. You can also read our tips on finding the right accounting software for your business here. 
• Inform and prepare your staff for the impending changes. Staff education is a very important part of accounting software changeover. It is an ongoing process that can begin as soon as you decide to change your system. All parties involved must learn how the new system works to ease the transition process. 
• Consult with a specialist. A specialist will guide you through the selection process and show you the best accounting system that will meet the needs and priorities of your business.  

Get QuickBooks Software Discontinuation support – and migration services 

Spondoo Accountants are not just certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors - we are also Xero gold partners, Zoho books advanced partners and are highly knowledgeable in Sage. We have a team of accountants and software developers that can support you through the QuickBooks Discontinuation transition – and even carry out the accounting software migration process on your behalf. Call us at 02033 259 341 or email us at info@spondoo.co.uk to start.