Convert QuickBooks File To an Older Version

Although upgrading a QuickBooks company file is as easy as pie, downgrading it can be a real headache. QuickBooks has an internal feature to upgrade any company file that the user may try to open with it; however, once the file is upgraded, it cannot be downgraded using the same software. In this article, you’ll find detailed information on how to convert a QuickBooks file to an older version.

Steps to Converting to an older version of QuickBooks Desktop

Once you’ve opened a company file using a particular version of QuickBooks, you cannot open it using an older version. However, if you created a backup of the company file before upgrading it, you can import previous accounting data into the older version of this software.

Step 1: Restore Backup of Company File in QuickBooks Desktop

A backup company file can be used to restore accounting data to the present company file. The backup file is usually compressed and much smaller in size than the original company file. QuickBooks takes the backup file (.qbb) and converts it into the company file (.qbw).

• Go to the File menu and click on Open or Restore Company.
• Choose Restore a Backup Copy. Hit Next.
• Click on Local Backup and then Next.
• Click on Browse and select the backup file.
• Click on Browse and select a folder in which you want to store the new company file.
• Review the preferences and click on Save.

Step 3: Process For QuickBooks File Conversion To Older QB Version

If you want to downgrade your QuickBooks subscription, follow the steps provided below:

• Click on Change Plan.
• From Settings, click on Accounts and Settings.
• Ensure that your payment information is up to date by selecting Billing & Subscription.
• Click on Downgrade. Select the New Plan.
• Review the features that you’ll lose by downgrading. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Downgrade QuickBooks Desktop Subscription Plan (Optional)

Although you cannot move to an older version of QuickBooks, you can at least downgrade to a less expensive version if you have purchased the subscription. However, there are many features that you won’t be able to access after downgrading your subscription plan. This is why some of the data stored using advanced features isn’t included in the downgraded version of the company file.

Features that you must consider before downgrading your subscription plan are provided below:

• Integration with other tools and accounting features
• Discounts offered with Subscription
• Inventory Tracking
• Payroll Integration
• Multi-currency support
• User and security support

Read More: Fix Subscription Has Lapsed Error in QuickBooks Desktop

When do you need To Downgrade QuickBooks Desktop Software?

• Integration with Third-Party Applications
  Downgrading your plan may interfere with the functionalities of integrated applications. You can find a list of integrated applications through the “My Apps” tab in QuickBooks. These integrated applications provide additional features that QuickBooks lacks from within the accounting software.
• Multi-Currency Support
  If you use multiple currencies while recording transactions, then downgrading your plan may remove this feature from your accounting software. The basic plans of QuickBooks desktop and online don’t provide support for multiple currencies.
• Inventory Tracking
  Do you use QuickBooks to track inventory? If yes, then downgrading may not be possible for you. If you’re switching to a plan that doesn’t support inventory tracking, then deactivate inventory items before downgrading.

You’ve successfully downgraded your version of QuickBooks. All your data can now be accessed from a downgraded version of QuickBooks. To upgrade or make any changes to your subscription plan, you’ll have to wait at least 24 hours.

Help Downgrade QuickBooks Company File Failed

Downgrading QuickBooks also removes a lot of support features. For instance, simple start users are provided support for two accounting firms and one billable user; however, advanced users are provided the same for 3 firms and 25 billable users. The lack of user support can be very frustrating, especially while you’re trying to downgrade to an older version of QuickBooks.