Mastering QuickBooks: 5 Essential Tips For Small Business Owners

Whether you just started using QuickBooks to manage your small business in 2024 or you've been muddling along for years with unanswered questions, diving into financial software can feel like swimming through uncharted territory. Your business's financial health depends on accurate bookkeeping and seamless transactions, which is where QuickBooks comes in. This accounting software can be a game-changer for small and mid-sized business owners – but it can also be confusing.

If you feel like you aren’t using your QuickBooks system to its full potential, you’re in the right place! While we recommend seeking professional guidance for a comprehensive understanding, here are five essential tips all business owners should know.

Familiarize Yourself with QuickBooks Lists

QuickBooks relies heavily on lists to streamline your financial tasks. Transaction forms provide access to pre-existing data, simplifying processes like customer selection with dropdown menus. Additionally, QuickBooks offers standalone lists accessible via the Lists menu, including the Item List, Sales Tax Code List, and Class List, which enable you to manage items, enter sales receipts, and run relevant reports.

Customize Chart of Accounts

One of the most powerful features of QuickBooks is its customizable Chart of Accounts. Tailoring this list to your business's specific needs allows for accurate categorization of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Take the time to review and customize your Chart of Accounts to reflect your company’s financial structure, ensuring clarity and consistency in your financial reporting.

Troubleshoot Transactions

When transactions seemingly vanish into thin air, QuickBooks provides tools to track them down easily. Access the “Voided/Deleted Transactions Summary” or “Detail” report to locate accidentally voided or deleted transactions. Similarly, the “Audit Trail” report tracks all entered or modified transactions, highlighting discrepancies or alterations made by multiple users.

Utilize "Local" Menus

Maximize efficiency by leveraging "Local" menus or right-click menus available in most QuickBooks windows. These menus offer quick access to related actions, such as duplicating invoices, memorizing transactions, viewing transaction history, or receiving payments, streamlining your workflow.

Practice With Sample Files

Before diving into live data, familiarize yourself with QuickBooks features using sample files provided by the software. Select a product- or service-based business sample file upon opening QuickBooks, allowing you to experiment with different features and workflows without risking errors in your company files.

f you encounter challenges or feel overwhelmed with QuickBooks, don't hesitate to ask for professional assistance. Whether you need guidance on specific functions, wish to optimize your software usage, or are considering an upgrade, our team is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation and enhance your accounting experience for improved productivity and effectiveness.


Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .

A Passion For the Alcohol Industry

Breweries & Distilleries

Breweries & Distilleries Are Our Specialty

At Oak City Payments, we have a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges and opportunities faced by breweries and distilleries. With nearly 15 years of experience in the alcohol industry, our team is passionate about this specialized sector. We're here to make sure your business thrives, whether you're crafting small batch bourbon in Asheville or craft beer in Wilmington. We know North Carolina -- and we know alcohol.

Expertise in Brewery and Distillery Operations

Our founder, Allen Jackson, has a background in the alcohol industry. HIs passion drives our commitment to supporting breweries and distilleries at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a startup craft brewery or an established distillery, we have the knowledge and resources to address your payroll, payments, and accounting needs.

Comprehensive Solutions for Alcohol Businesses

From payroll services specifically tailored to the unique needs of breweries and distilleries to wholesale solutions designed to optimize inventory management, Oak City Payments offers a suite of services to support your business. Our goal is to alleviate administrative burdens by providing the tools and support you need to focus on what you do best—crafting exceptional brews and spirits.

Trusted Partner in the Alcohol Industry

Oak City Payments is proud to be a trusted partner for breweries and distilleries across the Tar Heel State.. With our deep industry knowledge and personalized service, we are dedicated to helping alcohol businesses succeed and thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Cheers to a long-term partnership!

Let Oak City Payments relieve your stress today.
Fuquay-Varina-based Tax & Accounting Experts can help you with all areas of accounting, credit card processing, and payroll.