How to Import IIF Files into QuickBooks Desktop?

QuickBooks has improved significantly over the past few years and now offers capabilities to better manage your records. With the ability to import IIF files into QuickBooks, you can combine data stored at various storage locations and draw a clear picture of your accounts for reporting and analytics. This article demonstrates what IIF files are, what type of data they contain, and how you can import them into your QuickBooks Desktop software.

What Is an IIF File?

An Intuit Interchange Format (IIF) is a format designed by Intuit as a way of bringing transactions or lists directly into QuickBooks Desktop. It is a cross-platform text file that enables you to organize your QuickBooks Desktop company data better. An IIF file is exclusive to QuickBooks, but it can be opened and edited in Excel or Notepad. It contains finance and account-related data that can be arranged in a tabular format using columns and rows.

What Data Can You Import from an IIF File into QuickBooks?

By importing an IIF file into QuickBooks Desktop, you can import data pertaining to your bank transactions, general journal entries, accountant’s changes, and batch transactions. You can also import different lists such as items, charts of accounts, customer, and vendor lists. In addition, you can import various transactions, including initial balances, checks, deposits, invoices, purchase orders, cash refunds to customers, and so on.

What Are the Steps to Import an IIF File into QuickBooks Desktop?

QuickBooks doesn’t provide technical assistance for creating or importing IIF files. If you have created an IIF file using third-party software, you will have to contact the customer service of that specific software provider for help. The procedure to import IIF files into QuickBooks Desktop also varies based on the version you are using. Generally, the steps to import an IIF file into QuickBooks are as follows:

1. Sign into your company file as an admin.
2. Click on the File menu and select Switch to Single-user Mode.
3. Create a backup of your company file. You can use this backup to restore data if the import takes more than one attempt.
4. Go to File and select Utilities, and then click on Import.
5. Click on Import IIF Files.
6. Browse through your computer to locate the IIF file you want to open. Once you find it, click on Open.
7. Select OK to confirm the process.

It should import all the data from your IIF file into your company file. If the file fails to import, QuickBooks throws a File not imported error for you to review the file and reattempt the import.

Apps4Rent Can Help You Simplify Importing IIF Files

The challenges to successfully import an IIF file into QuickBooks Desktop start with bringing the IIF file to the system where QuickBooks Desktop is installed. Moreover, Intuit doesn’t provide assisted technical support for import. As an Intuit Authorized Hosting Provider, Apps4Rent hosts your software on a virtual desktop, enabling you to access it remotely on the devices where IIF files are stored. It simplifies import and allows you to use your software from wherever you are. We also offer 24/7 support via phone, chat, and email for QuickBooks. Contact our QuickBooks hosting team for hosting plan inquires today.