QuickBooks Desktop 2024 is the latest release of the popular small business accounting software. Upgrading provides access to new features and improvements that can benefit your organization. This article will walk through the complete process to upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Enterprise to the 2024 version.
Overview of QuickBooks 2024: New Features
Before upgrading, it helps to understand the new capabilities available in QuickBooks Desktop 2024:
- Improved search: faster results and prioritized hits make finding information easier.
- Advanced reporting: new options for visualizing data with charts and graphs.
- Invoice copy feature: Duplicate invoices easily with one click.
- Template customization: Additional customization options for invoices and other forms.
- Enhanced accessibility support: improvements to support users with disabilities.
- Apple M1 optimization: better performance for new Macs with Apple silicon.
- Updated payroll features: new options for managing payroll taxes and forms.
- Integration enhancements: better connectivity with third-party business apps.
These are just some of the enhancements and optimizations available in QuickBooks Desktop 2024.
Determining Your Current QuickBooks 2024 Version
Before upgrading, you’ll want to check which version of QuickBooks Desktop you are currently running. Here’s how:
- Open your QuickBooks Desktop application.
- Select Help from the top menu bar.
- Click on About QuickBooks Desktop.
- A window will open showing details of your current QuickBooks version and release.
Take note of this so you can determine if an upgrade to 2024 is needed.
Steps to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop
If your current version is older than 2024, here are the steps to upgrade:
Back up your QuickBooks company files.
To protect your data, back up your company files before upgrading. Go to File > Backup Company > Create Local Backup.
Purchase an Upgrade License
You’ll need to purchase a paid license to upgrade to QuickBooks Desktop 2024. Contact Intuit Sales or your reseller for pricing.
Download the QuickBooks 2024 Installer.
After purchasing a license, download the latest 2024 installer from the QuickBooks website. Save the installer file on your computer.
Install QuickBooks Desktop 2024
Run the installer to install QuickBooks Desktop 2024 on your system. Keep your previous version on your computer for now.
Update your company files.
Open QuickBooks 2024, and your company files will prompt you to convert them to the new version. Allow the optimization process to complete.
Install Updates
Check for any additional updates for QuickBooks 2024 and install them to get the latest enhancements.
You now have QuickBooks Desktop 2024 successfully installed and ready to use!
Tips for a Smooth Upgrade
Follow these best practices when upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2024:
- Review system requirements and compatibility before installing.
- Close QuickBooks completely before running the installer.
- Update login credentials if prompted after upgrading.
- Stick to Microsoft-recommended print and PDF drivers.
- Reset preferences to fix any issues after upgrading.
- Update multi-user hosting software and servers first.
Careful planning prevents headaches during the upgrade process.
Upgrading multiple company files
For those managing multiple company files, a few additional tips:
- Backup all company files before upgrading.
- Upgrade one company file at a time to the new version.
- Verify customizations like reports and templates after each file upgrade.
- Delete old file versions after confirming the upgrades are complete.
Take your time when updating multiple company files to ensure no data is lost.
Switching QuickBooks Editions
If you need to upgrade both your QuickBooks edition and version (e.g., Pro to Premier 2024),
- Purchase a new edition license from Intuit.
- Install the new edition without opening company files.
- Copy your current company files and open them in the new edition so they can be converted.
- Review the edition upgrade guidance from Intuit before switching.
This process allows you to change editions and upgrade versions in one transition.
Getting Help Upgrading QuickBooks
If you encounter any issues when upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2024:
- Review Intuit’s errors and troubleshooting documentation.
- Search their community forums for solutions.
- Contact Intuit customer support via phone, chat, or email.
- Consider hiring a QuickBooks ProAdvisor for personalized support.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to troubleshoot upgrade problems so you can get back to business as usual.
Key Takeaways on Upgrading to QuickBooks 2024
- Back up your company files before installation.
- Purchase an upgrade license from Intuit to upgrade.
- Download and run the latest version of the installer.
- Update your company files when prompted.
- Install any additional patches and updates.
- Reset preferences if you are experiencing issues.
- Get help from intuitive support if needed.
Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2024 provides access to the latest features and optimizations for a smoother accounting experience.
