Simple Stack

Move from QuickBooks to Wave

Checked Nov 2, 2026. Every step below comes from the vendors' own help pages, linked under each step. Screens and prices change, so check the linked page before you start.

How long it takes

Neither vendor gives a time. It depends on how many unpaid invoices and bills you have to re-enter.

1. Save a full copy of your QuickBooks data

• In QuickBooks Online, go to Settings, then Export data (under Tools). Pick a reason and click Continue.
• On the Reports tab, set the date range. Turn reports and lists on or off, then click Export to Excel. You get one .zip file.
• Estimates, purchase orders, statements, attachments, and recurring templates don't come in that file. QuickBooks shows how to export each one separately.

Source: quickbooks.intuit.com/learn-support/en-us/help-article/list-management/export-reports-lists-data-quickbooks-online/L1xleDrLp_US_en_US

2. Set up Wave

• Wave builds a chart of accounts from your business type. Add any accounts you use that are missing.
• If you charge sales tax, set up your taxes in Wave.

3. Re-create unpaid invoices and bills in Wave

• Do this first so balances aren't counted twice. Add customers, vendors, and products as you go.
• To bring in a customer list at once: Sales & Payments > Customers > Import or Export, upload a CSV that matches Wave's sample file, check the preview, then Yes, proceed with import. Wave says you can't undo an upload.
• Want customers to pay from the invoice? Turn on Wave's online payments.

4. Run two trial balance reports in QuickBooks

• Run one for the whole fiscal year (or your business life, if shorter). Save it.
• Delete the unpaid invoices and bills from QuickBooks, run a second trial balance, and save it.

5. Enter your balances in Wave

• In Wave: Accounting > Transactions > Add transaction > Add journal entry. Use the newest trial balance. Debits must equal credits.

6. Check your work

• In Wave: Reports > Trial Balance > Update Report. Compare it with the first QuickBooks report. The balances should match.

Source: support.waveapps.com/hc/en-us/articles/32526944035092-Switch-to-Wave-from-Quickbooks, support.waveapps.com/hc/en-us/articles/208623076-Import-a-customer-list

Good to know

• Wave's automatic payment reminders work if you accept online payments or pay for Wave's Pro plan.

Source: support.waveapps.com/hc/en-us/articles/208621676-Schedule-invoice-payment-reminders

Back to your receipt