How to Set Up Beginning Balances in QuickBooks Desktop


Last Update: March 20th, 2025     Author: Adams Williams

Reviewed By: SMBAccountants Editorial Team

To Set Up Beginning Balances in QuickBooks Desktop, go to the Chart of Accounts, click New, and select the appropriate account type. Enter the starting balance from your bank statement in the Opening Balance field. If you’re setting up balances for other accounts like credit cards, loans, or assets, ensure they reflect the actual financial position. Accurately entering beginning balances helps maintain correct financial records and simplifies reconciliation. Always verify the balances before saving. Properly setting up beginning balances in QuickBooks Desktop ensures seamless financial tracking and reporting.

How to Set Up Beginning Balances in QuickBooks Desktop

Follow these steps:

Steps to Set Up Beginning Balances in QuickBooks Desktop

  • Click + New and select Journal Entry.
  • Enter the desired date for the opening balance (e.g., 30/06/2017).
  • Add a Journal Number and copy the name into the Memo field (e.g., Journal Entry Year End 2017).
  • Select the appropriate Accounts and input the debit/credit amounts as per the Trial Balance from the existing file.
  • Click Save and Close to finalize the entry.

Read more: How to Set up Automatic Invoices in QuickBooks

Steps to Set Up Movement Balances in QuickBooks Desktop

Movement balances are used when starting a new file in the middle of a financial year (e.g., May 1st).

  • Click + New and select Journal Entry.
  • Enter the date for the opening balance (e.g., 01/05/2017).
  • Add a Journal Number and copy the name into the Memo field (e.g., Movement 2018).
  • Select the appropriate Accounts and enter the debit/credit amounts as per the Trial Balance from the existing file.
  • Click Save and Close.

Note: Debit and credit amounts must be equal to complete the journal entry.

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