QuickBooks Desktop 2020 is set to have its services discontinued by Intuit, with access to add-on services for the product set to end on May 31, 2023. If you’re still using QuickBooks Desktop 2020, you’ll no longer have access to services like Desktop Payroll, Payments, and Support; updates for security patches that help protect your data; and online bank feeds after May 31, 2023. All versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, and Enterprise Solutions v20 will be discontinued. If you’re using any of these versions, you’ll need to take action. Take a look at the full list of discontinued services here.
To ensure you don’t experience any service interruptions, we recommend switching to QuickBooks Online or Xero.
What does a QuickBooks service discontinuation mean?
When Intuit discontinues service for QuickBooks Desktop 2020 on May 31, 2023, you’ll lose access to several features and add-on services and you won’t be able to subscribe to live technical support or any other Intuit services that can be integrated with QuickBooks Desktop. Discontinued versions will also stop receiving the latest security patches and updates.
Customers who aren’t using the add-on services can still use QuickBooks Desktop, but they won’t have access to technical support or updates. Security updates, in particular, are a crucial component of any business’ fraud prevention strategy. That’s why we recommend that you stop using QuickBooks Desktop 2020 even if you aren’t using the add-on services.
In addition to QuickBooks Desktop 2020 for Windows, a few other Intuit products have upcoming discontinuation of service dates. Most significantly, QuickBooks Desktop Point of Sale 19.0 will no longer be supported after October 3, 2023.
What are your options for bookkeeping software?
If you’re currently using QuickBooks Desktop 2020, you can either upgrade to a newer version of QuickBooks Desktop, switch to QuickBooks Online, or choose another cloud-based bookkeeping platform.
Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop
If you want to stick with QuickBooks Desktop, you’ll need to upgrade to a newer version. Upgrading will ensure you continue receiving support and access to the latest features and updates.
Upgrading to a newer version of QuickBooks Desktop is straightforward, and you can simply purchase a new license and download the software.
Switch to QuickBooks Online
Alternatively, you can switch to QuickBooks Online, which we recommend as a good option if you’re looking for a more future-fit and affordable solution. QuickBooks Online is a cloud-based solution that offers anytime, anywhere access. It provides automatic bank account updates and access to your books from any location with an internet connection. With QuickBooks Online, you’ll have access to all the features you love in QuickBooks Desktop, as well as new and improved features, including customized reports and a clear view of your projects or products.
Further reading: QuickBooks Online Pros and Cons
Migrate to Xero
While we support clients on QuickBooks, Xero is our top recommendation for easy-to-use, flexible, and secure cloud accounting software. It offers many of the same benefits as QuickBooks Online, plus intuitive navigation and a robust library of apps to add the industry-specific features your business needs. Check out the features Xero offers to small businesses.
How will the move go?
If you decide to switch to QuickBooks Online, you’ll need to move your data from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online. There are plenty of resources available to help you make the transition. We recommend a strategic approach taking into consideration what data needs to be migrated. Your QuickBooks Desktop file remains unchanged if you migrate to the cloud and will continue to offer details for historical data.
Making the switch easier
QuickBooks is offering it’s Desktop 2020 customers a special promotion of 50% off for 12 months. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of the many benefits that QuickBooks Online has to offer. They’re also offering free migration help and a personalized setup session.
If you are ready to migrate and still have questions, or if you’re ready to hand off your bookkeeping and focus on your business, get in touch with our team. We offer a variety of packages to meet your needs and can also help you migrate your books to the cloud. Reach out to the FSA team today to schedule a consultation.
