Thanks for getting back to us, @athompsoncmc. Let me be your guide today. I understand that you don't want to start a completely new company file. You don't have to do that.
The good thing is you can copy and use everything such as your accounts, lists (customers, vendors, items, etc.), templates, and preferences from an existing company file to get started.
All you have to do is to create a copy of your existing company file. Then, condense the file to remove all the transactions. Get more insights through this help article: limitations when condensing your data.
First off, back up your company file, then follow the steps below to create a copy of an existing company file:
- Open QuickBooks Desktop and the company file you want to copy.
- Press F2 to open the Product Information window.
- Look in the File Information section. This shows where your (backup) company file is saved on your computer.
- Use the backup to restore your company file. This will create a new company file with the same accounts, lists, templates, and preferences.
- Rename the file when you restore it to create a different copy of your original company file. Save the new file to a unique folder.
You can now start fresh by deleting the transactions QuickBooks also copied over. Here's how:
- Open and review your new company file.
- Go to the File menu and go to Utilities.
- Select Condense Data. If you receive a message about removing budget data, select Yes.
- In the Condense Data window, select All Transactions and then Next.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the copied transactions.
After that, all transactions should be removed. Now, check your accounts by running a Transaction List by Date report to check if your accounts are empty. Otherwise, edit and delete them.
I'll be here to answer and help if you have more questions. Have a great day!
