Is QuickBooks Desktop Being Discontinued?

For years, many bookkeepers have preferred QuickBooks Desktop over QuickBooks Online. According to Intuit, next month, after May 31, 2023 Quickbooks Desktop services are unfortunately being discontinued. This includes all 2020 versions Of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier and Enterprise Solutions. 

What Exactly Does the QBD Being Discontinued Mean?

After May 31, 2023, users will lose any add-on services they currently use. However, if you don’t use any add-on services, QBD will still work for you. Do note that you will lose functions like: 

1. Technical support
2. Security patches
3. Updates
4. Online backup
5. Online banking
6. All other QuickBooks Desktop Services

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Why is QuickBooks Making This Change?

QuickBooks routinely phases out QuickBooks Desktop every 3 years, so this isn’t new. What’s different is that QuickBooks isn’t offering a new desktop version. The goal is to migrate users to QuickBooks Online. QuickBooks Online is a subscription service that costs around $30-$55 per month. This is likely a move to generate more revenue. 

Do I Need to Upgrade to QuickBooks Online?

If you use Intuit’s Point of Sale or do Payroll with any outside services, you’ll definitely need to switch. If you’re able to complete your workflow and tasks entirely in QuickBooks Desktop you should be ok!

QuickBooks Desktop vs QuickBooks Online?

In case the upcoming switch has you questioning whether or not you should upgrade to QuickBooks Online, here are some of the biggest differences provided by Forbes. 

Real Time Collaboration

Quickbooks Online offers real time collaboration between business owners and bookkeepers. If you need useful insights on the spot, online is a better platform to go with! If you’re comfortable not having live data, QuickBooks Desktop might be ok for you. 

App Integrations

After May 31, 2023, QuickBooks Desktop will no longer have access to any integrations. QuickBooks Online has over 650 app integrations.

Automatically Sync Banks Transactions

Quickbooks desktop may charge a fee. QuickBooks online offers this for free!

Payroll

QuickBooks Desktop starts at $50 per month plus an additional $2 per employee per month. QuickBooks Online starts at $22.50 per month.

Mobile App

QuickBooks Desktop offers limited access. QuickBooks Online has full access.

When it comes to bookkeeping, everyone has different needs. If you want full access with tech support, security patches, mobile app, app integrations and cheaper features, QuickBooks Online is the probably the solution for you. If you just need to bare minimum to get your books done, QuickBooks Desktop could possibly get you by!