In a recent announcement, Intuit has introduced significant changes to its QuickBooks Desktop. It presented a shift that may impact the approach of accounting professionals and their clients. Here’s a breakdown of the key alterations and guidance on how to work through them.
Product Discontinuation:
Effective July 31, 2024, Intuit will cease selling new subscriptions for the following QuickBooks Desktop products in the US:
- QuickBooks Desktop Enhanced Payroll
- QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus
- QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus
- QuickBooks Mac Plus
What will Remain Unchanged?
However, existing subscribers of Desktop Pro Plus, Premier Plus, Mac Plus, and Enhanced Payroll can continue to renew their subscriptions post-July 31, 2024. Intuit ensures ongoing assistance with security updates and product upgrades for existing subscribers.
Notably, QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise subscriptions (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond) will remain available for new subscribers after the aforementioned date. The integrated payroll options in Enterprise Gold, Platinum, and Diamond will also be available.
Accountants can still purchase QuickBooks Accountant Desktop Solutions, including ProAdvisor bundles, through Intuit’s Accountant Sales team beyond July 31, 2024.
Recommended Actions
- Intuit strongly encourages ProAdvisors and accounting professionals to assist their Desktop clients toward transitioning to QuickBooks Online. While we recommend QuickBooks Online, Intuit acknowledges that some clients may prefer to remain on Desktop for the time being.
- For clients on non-subscription versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Mac who wish to continue on Desktop, Intuit suggests purchasing a subscription of QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus, Premier Plus, or Mac Plus before July 31, 2024.
- We advise clients with Pro Plus or Premier Plus considering Desktop Payroll to purchase a QuickBooks Enhanced Payroll subscription. They should do it before the deadline or upgrade to QuickBooks Enterprise Gold, Platinum, or Diamond post-July 31, 2024.
- Alternatively, QuickBooks Online Payroll is available as a standalone full-service payroll solution with HR support, Health, and 401K benefits.
- QuickBooks Desktop 2024 includes the latest features and security updates. If your clients are on an active QuickBooks Desktop Plus subscription, they have access to QuickBooks Desktop 2024 with no additional charge. Additionally, they simply have to install the update.
Intuit is informing ProAdvisors and accounting professionals about these changes. It is providing you and your affected clients with a 6-month window to buy a Desktop accounting or payroll subscription if you wish to continue using the Desktop platform.
Upgrade to QuickBooks Desktop 2024
In February 2024, Intuit will communicate these changes to all QuickBooks Desktop customers.
Intuit is informing ProAdvisors and accounting professionals about these modifications to offer a 6-month window for you and your affected clients. You can acquire a Desktop accounting or payroll subscription if you wish to continue using the Desktop platform.
QuickBooks Desktop Product Line-up Changes
Starting January 8, 2024, the fee for each direct deposit processed through QuickBooks Desktop Payroll will increase to $4. This adjustment impacts QuickBooks Desktop Enhanced Payroll for Accountants when utilizing direct deposit for W2 employee payments.
As the employee direct deposit fee is invoiced directly to your clients, Intuit will issue a 30-day notice to your affected clients, sent to the primary principals’ email address on record. For clients on “legacy” Enhanced, Standard, or Basic Payroll plans without monthly per-employee fees, the new fee will be applicable when making direct deposit payments to W2 employees.
Continued Support to Move QuickBooks Online
to resolve your query in no-time.
Intuit commits to supporting Desktop subscription customers after July 31, 2024. However, they encourage ProAdvisors and accounting professionals to advocate for transitioning to an online platform. The advantages of an online platform, including time savings, remote work flexibility, and a customizable ecosystem of connected business solutions, are emphasized.
In preparation for the shift to an online environment, Intuit offers dedicated help materials created by accountants who have successfully migrated their clients.
As Intuit works alongside ProAdvisors and accounting professionals through this transition, additional resources will be provided to ease the process of managing clients through these changes effectively. Stay tuned for updates and resources to facilitate a smooth transition for your clients.
