Intuit recently announced that QuickBooks Desktop 2021 Discontinued This news has left many long-time desktop users wondering what it means to them and what steps they need to take next.
This major shift away from the traditionally popular QuickBooks Desktop application is an indication of Intuit's broader strategy to move their focus to cloud-based subscription solutions.
In this post, we’ll cover all the details around the discontinued QuickBooks Desktop 2021 and what Intuit is recommending for affected users going forward.
Why Did Intuit QuickBooks Desktop 2021 Discontinued?
Intuit decided to stop new sales and downloads of QuickBooks Desktop 2021 in favor of pushing more users towards their online QuickBooks products.
The company outlined a few key reasons for this transition:
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Cloud-based apps like QuickBooks Online offer more flexibility, seamless mobile access, automatic updates, and data syncing across devices.
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The subscription model provides more predictable, recurring revenue for Intuit compared to one-time desktop license purchases.
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Reduced costs for Intuit, as online cloud products require less overhead to maintain and support.
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The user experience can be consistently improved with online apps that are continuously updated and enhanced.
Essentially, Intuit believes the future of accounting software is in the cloud, not the desktop. By discontinuing QuickBooks Desktop 2021, they aim to accelerate adoption of online products as they phase out perpetually licensed desktop software.
What Options Do Users Have Going Forward?
If you are currently using QuickBooks Desktop 2021 for your business, you have a few paths forward:
Continue Using QuickBooks Desktop 2021
Existing users can keep using QB Desktop 2021 and renew their annual support plan. However, no new features will be added, and support will eventually be discontinued.
You will still have full access to your company files and data. But we only recommend this as a temporary option until you can transition to a newer product.
Upgrade to the Latest QuickBooks Desktop
You can upgrade to the newest version of QuickBooks Desktop to keep the familiar functionality while getting the latest features. However, upgrading your desktop version will also only take a limited amount of time. The desktop editions will also reach end-of-life eventually as Intuit continues moving away from them.
Switch to QuickBooks Online
For the most future-proof solution, transitioning your QuickBooks data to a cloud-based QuickBooks Online subscription is recommended. While learning the new interface and features can take some adjustment, QBO provides flexibility to manage your business finances from anywhere. Automatic updates ensure you always have the latest tools.
Recommended Reading: Update QuickBooks Desktop 2023: What's New and How to Get It
Key Steps for Transitioning Away from QuickBooks Desktop to Online
If you decide to upgrade your desktop or make the switch to QuickBooks Online, here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition:
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Back up your data before any major changes to keep it secure.
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Clean up any data errors or issues using the File Doctor tool in Desktop. This prevents problems with migrating data.
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Install the latest payroll update on the desktop before moving data to QuickBooks Online.
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Migrate data gradually, if possible. Start by archiving old company files not needed for daily operations.
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Leverage resources from Intuit, like data import guides, to walk through moving data seamlessly.
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Use expert support from Intuit phone agents or QuickBooks Pro Advisors to assist in the transition if needed.
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Take advantage of QBO test drives to get familiar with the online product and interface before fully switching over.
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Consider add-ons like online payroll, online payment processing, and enhanced reporting to take full advantage of new capabilities.
What is Intuit Recommending for QB Desktop 2021 Users?
For most QuickBooks Desktop 2021 users, Intuit is recommending upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2023 or transitioning to QuickBooks Online.
These options will allow you to keep using the latest features and get a more cloud-integrated experience. Intuit will provide guidance, resources, tools, and support to assist in the process.
They understand that moving platforms is an adjustment for long-time desktop users. Their goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible while still pushing adoption of online products overall.
Conclusion
The QuickBooks Desktop 2021 marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new age of cloud accounting software. While this discontinuation may be disruptive in the short term, Intuit believes it is a necessary step to align with how modern businesses operate.
For specialized assistance and advice on transitioning to a new QuickBooks solution, contact our experts at +1(855)-738-0359 Our team stays up to date on Intuit’s recommendations and can ensure your business stays compliant during this shift.
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