We can set up a retainer, Von.

The retainer is a liability to show that, although you received the money, it only belongs to you once used to pay for services. I'm here to guide you through the process.

First, we'll need to create a liability account to track the amount you received. Here's how:

1. From the Accounting tab, select Chart of accounts.
2. Click New.
3. From the Account Type dropdown menu, select Current liabilities.
4. From the Detail Type dropdown menu, select Client Trust Accounts - Liabilities.
5. Enter a Name for the account.
6. Select a Default GST Code, enter an Unpaid balance, and an as of date.
7. Select Save and Close.

Then, let's set up a retainer item:

1. Select Products and services from the Sales tab.
2. Click New.
3. From the Product/Service information panel, select Service.
4. Give it a name.
5. From the Income account dropdown, select the liability account.
6. Click Save and close.

Afterward, you can create a liability account if you want to keep the money you received in a separate trust account. Lastly, you can create a sales receipt or invoice for the retainer you received. I've added this article for the detailed steps to add an invoice: Step 4. Create a sales receipt or invoice for deposits or retainers.

Also, if you use an external platform to process payments, you can keep track of those payments in QuickBooks. Here's an article for reference: Record invoice payments in QuickBooks Online.

I'm always around whenever you have concerns about recording a retainer.