Hello, DebBYF.
QuickBooks Desktop has a 3-year lifecycle. You would need to go, at a minimum. 2013-2016- 2017-2019 and Rebuild the file in between.
First off, we'll need to create a backup file to make sure that the data will be saved before upgrading. To get started, let's perform the following steps to back up your company file:
- Go to the File menu, choose Back Up Company, then select Create Local Backup.
- Choose Local Backup.
- Click Options.
- In the Tell us where to save your backup copies field, select Browse and select the location in which to save the backup copy.
- Hit OK.
- In the Create Backup window, specify whether to back up automatically, and select Options to set options for automatic backups.
- Select New to set a backup schedule in the Schedule Backups dialog.
- Tap Finish.
Then, If you have a backup of your company file before it was updated, you can restore it using the steps below:
- Click the File menu and select Open or Restore Company.
- Choose Restore a backup copy then press Next.
- Select Local Backup then click Next.
- From the Look In drop-down, choose the backup file location.
- Locate the backup file from the folder. The file name should appear as [Company Name].qbb.
- Select Open then click Next.
- From the Save in drop-down, choose the location to save the restored file.
- Type a new file name in the File name field then click Save.
Here are some extension you need to know:
- QBW - Working Files
- QBB - Back Up Files
- QBA - Accountants Copy Files
- QBX - Accountants Transfer Files
- QBY - Accountants Change Files
Once done, you can now upgrade your QuickBooks Desktop 2013 to 2021 version. For your reference, you can check out this article for the detailed steps and information: Upgrade to a New QuickBooks Desktop Version.
In case you need tips and related articles in the future, visit our QuickBooks Community help website for reference: QBDT Self-help.
I'll be right here to help if you need further assistance. Have a great day and stay safe!
