{"id":31679,"date":"2024-11-05T13:13:58","date_gmt":"2024-11-05T18:13:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/?p=31679"},"modified":"2025-12-16T11:41:52","modified_gmt":"2025-12-16T16:41:52","slug":"make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/","title":{"rendered":"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping your books in order is essential for any business owner, but it\u2019s not just about plugging in numbers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Journal entries in QuickBooks help ensure your financials are correct, organized, and compliant \u2014 plus, they\u2019re an essential tool for tracking every penny with pinpoint accuracy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article, you\u2019ll learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online, including all the different journal entry types available and their common uses. Let\u2019s get started!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-prerequisites-for-journal-entries\">Prerequisites for journal entries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before diving into the steps for making a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/view-journal-entries-in-quickbooks\/\">journal entry<\/a>, there are a couple of things you need to know. First, there are a number of reasons that journal entries are key to maintaining accurate bookkeeping and reporting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learning how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks helps you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Capture all financial activity:<\/strong> Journal entries ensure every transaction \u2014 even those that don\u2019t fit into standard categories (like income or expenses) \u2014 is properly recorded. This provides a complete picture of your finances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Ensure compliance:<\/strong> Correctly documented journal entries help your business meet accounting standards and regulatory requirements, making audits and tax filings smoother and more accurate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Track complex transactions:<\/strong> Some financial events, such as asset purchases or inventory adjustments, require specific debits and credits that only journal entries can capture correctly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Support better decision-making:<\/strong> Accurate journal entries provide reliable data that\u2019s crucial for informed business decisions, such as forecasting or budgeting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Improve financial accuracy:<\/strong> Being able to make adjustments for things like depreciation, prepaid expenses, or accruals helps you keep your books accurate and prevent discrepancies that lead to reporting errors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Simplify financial reconciliation:<\/strong> Journal entries help reconcile your accounts with bank statements and other records, catching any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/unreconcile-quickbooks-online\/\">discrepancies<\/a> that need correcting.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Clarify financial statements<\/strong>: By categorizing and balancing all transactions, journal entries ensure your financial statements, such as balance sheets and income statements, are a true reflection of your business\u2019 performance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another important note before you get started: in QuickBooks Online, you need the correct permissions to create journal entries. If you don\u2019t see the option to enter one, double-check your access permissions with your account administrator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-make-a-journal-entry-in-quickbooks-online\">How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to get started? Check out the video below to learn everything you need to know about making QuickBooks journal entries:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"padding:56.25% 0 0 0;position:relative;\"><iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/1049812929?badge=0&amp;autopause=0&amp;player_id=0&amp;app_id=58479\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media\" style=\"position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;\" title=\"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/div><script src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/api\/player.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We&#8217;ve also written a step-by-step guide outlining how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online to make the process as easy as possible for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Head to the \u201c+ New\u201d menu and select \u201cJournal Entry\u201d from the dropdown menu.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"750\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Create-a-journal-entry-in-QuickBooks.png\" alt=\"A screenshot showing how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online\" class=\"wp-image-31681 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1200px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1200\/750;width:1200px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Create-a-journal-entry-in-QuickBooks.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Create-a-journal-entry-in-QuickBooks-768x480.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Image credit: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/quickbooks.intuit.com\/learn-support\/en-ca\/help-article\/accounting-bookkeeping\/create-journal-entry-quickbooks-online\/L6Bzy9mT9_CA_en_CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Intuit<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Enter the transaction date for the entry. This should align with the actual transaction date or the end of a reporting period if it\u2019s an adjustment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Choose the accounts (at least two) impacted by this transaction and enter the respective debit or credit amounts. Remember, every journal entry needs a balanced total: debits must equal credits.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"750\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Journal-Entry-Example.png\" alt=\"A screenshot showing an example of a journal entry in QuickBooks Online\" class=\"wp-image-31682 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Journal-Entry-Example.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Journal-Entry-Example-768x480.png 768w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1200px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1200\/750;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Image credit: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/quickbooks.intuit.com\/learn-support\/en-ca\/help-article\/accounting-bookkeeping\/create-journal-entry-quickbooks-online\/L6Bzy9mT9_CA_en_CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Intuit<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Consider adding a memo, which can help you or your accountant remember the reason behind the entry, making audits or reviews easier.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Double-check everything and hit either \u201cSave and new\u201d or \u201cSave and close.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Quick tip:<\/em><\/strong> For users who\u2019ve switched from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/quickbooks-desktop-discontinued\/\">QuickBooks Desktop<\/a>, you\u2019ll notice slight layout differences, but the entry process is similar. Online users may also find it easier to reference past entries on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group m-section-thin m-bluebanner is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center simpletoc-hidden\" id=\"h-push-quickbooks-online-further-than-ever-with-method\">Push QuickBooks Online further than ever with Method.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons m-justified-center is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-3e41869c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button m-button cta-content qb4a\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/quickbooks-crm\/?utm_campaign=2024ctas&amp;utm_term=cta-banner4a\">See all the ways how<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-common-uses-for-journal-entries-in-quickbooks\">Common uses for journal entries in QuickBooks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Journal entries aren\u2019t just for accountants; they\u2019re tools for real-world bookkeeping needs. Here are a few examples of when you might need to make a journal entry:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Adjusting income for errors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Depreciating assets.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Making payroll corrections.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Handling prepaid expenses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accuracy is the name of the game with these entries\u2014otherwise, you\u2019ll have incorrect numbers impacting your financial statements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-creating-a-journal-entry-template\">Creating a journal entry template<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have recurring transactions \u2014 like monthly rent or lease payments \u2014 you can save time by creating a reusable journal entry template in QuickBooks. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Follow the regular steps above that outline how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online. If you already have your journal entry ready, simply open it up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Once you\u2019re in the entry, choose \u201cMake Recurring\u201d at the bottom of the journal entry form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Select a frequency, such as weekly or monthly, and confirm the details.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Click \u201cSave.\u201d QuickBooks will now automatically generate entries based on this template.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"878\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Online-recurring-journal-entry-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A screenshot showing recurring journal entries in QuickBooks Online.\" class=\"wp-image-31683 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Online-recurring-journal-entry-scaled.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Online-recurring-journal-entry-768x263.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Online-recurring-journal-entry-1536x527.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/QuickBooks-Online-recurring-journal-entry-2048x702.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/878;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Image credit: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firmofthefuture.com\/accounting\/quickbooks-can-do-what-recurring-transactions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Firm of the Future<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using templates can speed up your process and reduce the chance of human error in repeated entries. It\u2019s a win-win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-types-of-journal-entries-you-should-know\">Types of journal entries you should know<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Journal entries come in all shapes and sizes, each serving a unique purpose. Here are a few you might encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-reversing-journal-entry\">Reversing journal entry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are entries that \u201creverse\u201d an existing transaction, usually made at the start of a new accounting period. For instance, if you accrued an expense in December but paid it off in January, a reversing entry in January would balance out the initial accrual.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your reversing journal entry reversal might look something like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">December 31: Accrue $1,000 expense.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">January 1: Reverse $1,000 expense.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-adjusting-journal-entry\">Adjusting journal entry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adjusting entries ensure your books accurately reflect your financials at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/close-books-quickbooks-online\/\">end of a period<\/a>. They\u2019re commonly used for items like accrued expenses or revenue adjustments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-make-an-adjusting-entry\">How to make an adjusting entry<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Create a new journal entry and select the accounts needing adjustment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Enter the adjusting amounts as a debit or credit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Save the entry to update your balances.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-payroll-journal-entry\">Payroll journal entry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payroll entries help you document wages, taxes, and benefits accurately. Here\u2019s a simple setup:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Wages expense<\/strong>: Debit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Payroll tax expense<\/strong>: Debit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Cash<\/strong>: Credit (for the total)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recording payroll correctly ensures your expenses match your actual payout, keeping your financials in line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-recurring-journal-entry\">Recurring journal entry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you have regular expenses like utility bills or rent, setting up a recurring journal entry is a great idea. This keeps your accounts up to date without the extra manual effort every month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accrual-journal-entry\">Accrual journal entry<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Accrual entries account for transactions when they occur, even if cash hasn\u2019t changed hands yet. For example, an accrual entry would record revenue that\u2019s been earned but not yet paid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your accrual journal entry might look something like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Accounts receivable<\/strong>: Debit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\"><strong>Revenue<\/strong>: Credit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using accruals gives you a more accurate picture of your financial health, especially in businesses where services are provided before payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cash-disbursements-journal\">Cash disbursements journal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A cash disbursements journal is a record of all cash outflows, like expenses and payments. To manage it in QuickBooks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Log each payment transaction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Include transaction details, like date, amount, and payee.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Review regularly to keep tabs on your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/quote-to-cash\/\">cash flow<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group m-section-thin m-bluebanner is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center simpletoc-hidden\" id=\"h-wish-you-could-get-more-from-quickbooks-method-makes-it-possible\">Wish you could get more from QuickBooks? Method makes it possible.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons m-justified-center is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-3e41869c wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button m-button cta-content crm-cta1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/grow.method.me\/request-demo\/?utm_campaign=2024ctas&amp;utm_term=cta-banner-mofu1\">See for yourself<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-best-practices-for-journal-entries\">Best practices for journal entries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consistent, accurate entries are critical to avoid the hassle of financial discrepancies later. Here are a few <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/accounting-best-practices\/\">best practices<\/a> to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Regularly reconcile your entries with bank statements and other financial records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Record transactions as soon as they happen to prevent backlogs and errors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">When possible, add memos with clear descriptions to explain the entry\u2019s purpose.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Always double-check and verify that debits match credits in every entry.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-key-takeaways\">Key takeaways<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To wrap up, here are the essential points to remember now that you know how to make journal entries in QuickBooks Online:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"\">Mastering journal entries ensures accurate financial records and better decision-making.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Templates and recurring entries save time and reduce mistakes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Different types of entries \u2014 like reversing, adjusting, and payroll entries \u2014 serve specific purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"\">Following best practices keeps your books reliable and ready for audits or analysis.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With these pro tips and a little practice, you\u2019ll be handling QuickBooks Online journal entries like a pro in no time. Keep your entries timely and accurate, and you\u2019ll have a solid foundation for all your financial data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re tired of repetitive data entry and manual bookkeeping adjustments in QuickBooks, consider trying out Method CRM. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/\">Method<\/a> is the best CRM for QuickBooks, simplifying processes like customer management, communications, and invoicing \u2014 all in one place. Rather than bouncing between platforms and duplicating data, Method syncs with QuickBooks in real time, so every update you make on one platform is instantly reflected in the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"padding:56.25% 0 0 0;position:relative;\"><iframe data-src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/913433287?badge=0&amp;autopause=0&amp;player_id=0&amp;app_id=58479\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture\" style=\"position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;\" title=\"Win more business with a QuickBooks CRM\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/div><script src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/api\/player.js\"><\/script>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Explore how Method enhances your QuickBooks experience with your <a href=\"https:\/\/signup.method.me\/methodcrm\">14-day free trial<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-make-a-journal-entry-in-quickbooks-faqs\">How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-import-a-journal-entry-into-quickbooks\">Can I import a journal entry into QuickBooks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, QuickBooks allows you to import journal entries from external sources, like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/quickbooks-chart-of-accounts-template-excel\/\">Excel<\/a>. You\u2019ll need to map your data to match QuickBooks\u2019 fields for a smooth import.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-should-i-use-journal-entries-in-quickbooks\">When should I use journal entries in QuickBooks?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Journal entries are ideal for correcting errors, recording depreciation, and handling non-standard transactions not covered by QuickBooks\u2019 default forms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-does-quickbooks-automatically-handle-journal-entries\">Does QuickBooks automatically handle journal entries?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QuickBooks handles certain transactions automatically as journal entries, like bank account transfers. However, adjustments or specialized entries usually require manual input.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":31684,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[150,39],"tags":[122,22,71],"class_list":["post-31679","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-accounting","category-quickbooks-accounting","tag-accounting","tag-quickbooks","tag-quickbooks-online"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.5 (Yoast SEO v27.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How To Make a Journal Entry in QuickBooks Online &#8212; Method<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping &#8212; Method\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Method\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MethodHQ\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2400\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1350\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Ryan Flanigan\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@methodcrm\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@methodcrm\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Ryan Flanigan\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"28 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Ryan Flanigan\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/8ed433e93d0de4c5511d6a95f02efd62\"},\"headline\":\"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1477,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Accounting\",\"QuickBooks\",\"QuickBooks Online\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Accounting\",\"QuickBooks\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/\",\"name\":\"How To Make a Journal Entry in QuickBooks Online &#8212; Method\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00\",\"description\":\"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png\",\"width\":2400,\"height\":1350,\"caption\":\"A teal illustration of a person with a magnifying glass.\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/blog\\\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/\",\"name\":\"Method\",\"description\":\"CRM Software for QuickBooks\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Method Integration\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2019\\\/04\\\/Logo-MethodCRM-darkblue-V2.svg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2019\\\/04\\\/Logo-MethodCRM-darkblue-V2.svg\",\"width\":300,\"height\":80,\"caption\":\"Method Integration\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/MethodHQ\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/methodcrm\",\"https:\\\/\\\/linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/method-integration\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.method.me\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/8ed433e93d0de4c5511d6a95f02efd62\",\"name\":\"Ryan Flanigan\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Ryan Flanigan\"},\"description\":\"Ryan is the Content Marketing Manager at Method \u2014 the #1 QuickBooks CRM. He loves to write, and has an appreciation for the power of words. When he's not focused on drafting concise, educational material for Method, you can likely find Ryan at the movie theatre or a local record store.\",\"jobTitle\":\"Content Marketing Manager\",\"worksFor\":\"Method\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How To Make a Journal Entry in QuickBooks Online &#8212; Method","description":"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping &#8212; Method","og_description":"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/","og_site_name":"Method","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MethodHQ","article_published_time":"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2400,"height":1350,"url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"Ryan Flanigan","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@methodcrm","twitter_site":"@methodcrm","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Ryan Flanigan","Est. reading time":"28 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/"},"author":{"name":"Ryan Flanigan","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#\/schema\/person\/8ed433e93d0de4c5511d6a95f02efd62"},"headline":"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping","datePublished":"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00","dateModified":"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/"},"wordCount":1477,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png","keywords":["Accounting","QuickBooks","QuickBooks Online"],"articleSection":["Accounting","QuickBooks"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/","url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/","name":"How To Make a Journal Entry in QuickBooks Online &#8212; Method","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png","datePublished":"2024-11-05T18:13:58+00:00","dateModified":"2025-12-16T16:41:52+00:00","description":"Learn how to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online with step-by-step guidance and expert tips to enhance your bookkeeping accuracy.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Man-searching-business-idea-Teal.png","width":2400,"height":1350,"caption":"A teal illustration of a person with a magnifying glass."},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/blog\/make-journal-entry-in-quickbooks\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"How to make a journal entry in QuickBooks Online: Pro tips for accurate bookkeeping"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/","name":"Method","description":"CRM Software for QuickBooks","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#organization","name":"Method Integration","url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Logo-MethodCRM-darkblue-V2.svg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Logo-MethodCRM-darkblue-V2.svg","width":300,"height":80,"caption":"Method Integration"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/MethodHQ","https:\/\/x.com\/methodcrm","https:\/\/linkedin.com\/company\/method-integration"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/#\/schema\/person\/8ed433e93d0de4c5511d6a95f02efd62","name":"Ryan Flanigan","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/97e9810bc5f7fc5207c560b8b0f0edaac13ede6699663f681b4f4c5ce0f19cb5?s=96&d=blank&r=g","caption":"Ryan Flanigan"},"description":"Ryan is the Content Marketing Manager at Method \u2014 the #1 QuickBooks CRM. He loves to write, and has an appreciation for the power of words. When he's not focused on drafting concise, educational material for Method, you can likely find Ryan at the movie theatre or a local record store.","jobTitle":"Content Marketing Manager","worksFor":"Method"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31679","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/45"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31679"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31679\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31684"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31679"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31679"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.method.me\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31679"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}