This isn't the kind of experience we want you to have while completing your payroll setup in QuickBooks Online (QBO) Payroll Core, @tamilligan. With this, I'm here to guide you on the actions you need to take care of this matter.

The Accounting menu should be located at the bottom of the Payroll Settings page when using the Core payroll plan. Please see the screenshot below for your reference.

I appreciate you for performing the recommended steps above. Since the issue persists, I encourage you to contact our Payroll Care team. They can securely verify your account, check your payroll settings, and guide you with a fix. This way, you can map your payroll accounts accordingly. To do this, here's how:

1. Sign in to your QBO company.
2. Go to the Help (?) menu.
3. Select the Search tab.
4. Click the Contact Us button.
5. Enter a brief description of your concern in the What can we help you with? field.
6. Select Continue.
7. Choose a way to connect with us (Send a message or Get a callback). Make sure to initiate contact during support hours.

I've attached a screenshot below that shows the last five steps.

To know more about managing your payroll accounting preferences in QBO, you can refer to this article: Payroll accounting preferences.

Also, here's an article that'll further guide you in managing your payroll account and transactions: QuickBooks Online Payroll Help Articles. It includes topics about subscription management, setting up and editing payroll, and benefits, to name a few. Select the + More topics button to view other selections.

I appreciate your patience regarding the matter. Let me know if you have other payroll concerns, and I'll gladly help. Take care, and wishing you continued success.