Thanks for joining this thread, athcardcol.

I’m here to help and guide you on how to back up and restore your bookkeeper’s file to QuickBooks Desktop for Mac.

QuickBooks Desktop for Mac has been enhanced with new and improved features optimized for the Mac platform. That’s why it’s not identical to the desktop program. However, some features are similar.

In situations like this, you can either convert the data or use a hosting service to move the information to your computer. If you opt for the conversion process, let’s make sure your bookkeeper is using QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Premier Accountant Editions. This is to ensure you can move the company file smoothly.

Here’s how:

1. Update QuickBooks for Desktop for Windows to the latest release and then open the file as the administrator.
2. Tap the File menu to select Utilities and Copy Company File for QuickBooks Mac.
3. You’ll see a message that says "It looks like ‘QuickBooks for Windows’ might be a better fit for your company," Make sure to check what data isn’t converted from Windows. If you want to continue, select Yes.
4. Go to the folder you want to save the file and then name it and select Save.
5. Make sure to not use special characters in the file name.
6. Move the file to your Mac by using any storage device such as a USB flash drive, etc.

Next, restore the MAC.qbb backup to your device. For detailed instructions, go to Step 2 in this article: Convert a QuickBooks for Windows file to QuickBooks for Mac. From there, you’ll learn what information is converted or not to the Mac program.

If you choose to use the hosting feature, check this resource to learn more about this option: How to host a QuickBooks Desktop company file. It includes information on how many users you can add.

I’m adding a link that will take you to our self-help articles. These resources will help get acclimated to the tasks you can in QuickBooks Desktop for Mac.

Stay in touch if you have additional questions about restoring your company file. I’m more than happy to answer them for you. Wishing your business continued success.