How do I upgrade my QuickBooks file to a new version?

Because Intuit releases new versions of their software on a yearly basis, we recommend that QuickBooks users upgrade to the latest version at least every 2-3 years. To make the transition as smooth as possible, here are the correct steps to follow:

1. Open your file in your current version of QuickBooks as the Admin user in single-user mode. 
2. Go to File Menu -> Utilities -> Verify. If no problems have been detected with the file, then you can close QuickBooks. If problems are detected, run the rebuild utility and re-verify your file. When no problems have been detected, proceed to the next step.
3. Open the new version of QuickBooks. Exit out of any initial splash screens to start a new company file.
4. Go to File -> Open or Restore a Company File. Click next to open a company file.
5. Locate your company file in our Q:drive and open the file. *Note: Open the file in single-user mode
6. Accept the warning that you are upgrading your file, and click Update Now.
7. Sign in using your username and password for QuickBooks
8. After the upgrade is complete, you will be taken to your QB file. Note that the file can no longer be opened in your old version of QuickBooks.
9. Repeat the verify process (File Menu -> Utilities -> Verify) to make sure there are no problems detected with your new file version.