Move Attachments from QuickBooks Desktop to Online Without Big Migration Fees

Attachments, Unchained: Move Your Files from QuickBooks Desktop to Online (No Hefty Price Tag)

If you have ever tried moving your QuickBooks Desktop data to QuickBooks Online, you probably hit a wall when it came to attachments. Receipts, contracts, and all those crucial supporting docs were stuck on Desktop unless you were ready to pay a lot for a migration service. Some services charge thousands just to get your files where you need them.

That has changed. QuickBooks now lets you bring your attachments along for the ride, for free. This is a huge win for bookkeepers, accountants, and small business owners.

Why Attachments Matter

Those supporting docs are more than digital clutter. They are the proof behind every transaction, the backup for every audit, and the lifeline when you are tracking down that one weird expense from last February. Losing attachments in a move is like shipping your furniture to a new house and leaving all the cushions behind.

What’s New?

QuickBooks now supports moving attachments from Desktop to Online as part of the standard migration process. No more workarounds, no more manual uploads, and no more paying third-party vendors a small fortune.

How Does It Work?

1. Start the Migration: Use the built-in migration tool in QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Choose to Include Attachments: During the process, you will get the option to bring attachments along.
3. Let QuickBooks Do Its Thing: The attachments are moved automatically and linked to the right transactions in QuickBooks Online.

Why This Is a Game Changer

• Saves You Money: Third-party services can charge thousands for this exact feature. Now, it is included.
• Saves You Time: No more downloading, renaming, and re-uploading files one by one.
• Reduces Risk: Attachments stay connected to the right transactions, so nothing slips through the cracks.
• Empowers DIYers: Whether you are a solo bookkeeper or a small business owner, you can handle your own migration confidently.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Migration

• Check Your File Types: QuickBooks supports common formats like PDF, JPG, DOCX, and XLSX, but double-check your attachments for anything unusual.
• Keep Filenames Clean: Stick to letters, numbers, and basic symbols to avoid upload errors.
• Size Matters: Attachment need to be smaller than 30MB each
• Attachments need to be local - As with most things there can be some complications. The Attachments need to be local, but if you are running QB in multi user on a server, that will add some extra steps to bring the QB desktop file and the attachments local to the computer.
• Back Up First: Always back up your Desktop file before you start. Better safe than sorry.

Need a Hand with Desktop Migration?

If you are excited about this new attachment migration feature but still feeling a little nervous about the move, you are not alone. Whether you want a full-service conversion or just a bit of expert guidance, we are here to help.
👉 See how School of Bookkeeping can help you migrate from Desktop to Online

We discussed and demonstrated this process on our Workshop in June. Take a look!!

Final Thoughts

This update takes away one of the last big headaches of moving to QuickBooks Online. If you have been holding back because of attachment issues or sticker shock from migration quotes, now is your moment.

Need a step-by-step walkthrough or have questions about the process? Drop them in the comments, or reach out via chat or email. We are here to help you make the leap, cushions and all.