QB TECHNIQUE: Converting sub-accounts to a different Account Type

Ever want to change the "Account Type" of a sub-account?

If you go into the Edit screen and try to change the Account Type, QuickBooks will display the message "You cannot change the type of a subaccount. It must be the same type as its parent account".

Many users then believe that they cannot make the change, and that they must establish a totally new account in the desired location. But here are 2 ways to sidestep what appears to be a prohibited action:

Technique #1:

1. Click on Edit for the account you wish to change.
2. You will notice that the box titled "Subaccount of" is checked
3. Tab into the next field (the field that shows the "parent" account) and delete the entire name of the parent account.
4. Now you can go back to the top of the edit screen and change the Account Type.
5. If you wish the account to become a subaccount of an account in the new Account Type area, just go back to the field following the "Subaccount of" checkbox and select the new parent account.

Technique #2:

1. Open the Chart of Accounts (Ctrl + A).
2. Highlight the account that you wish to move.
3. Place your cursor over the small diamond to the left of the account name and drag the ccount to the far left. It is now no longer a subaccount.
4. Click on Edit and then change the account type.
5. If you wish the account to become a subaccount of an account in the new Account Type area, just go to the field following the "Subaccount of" checkbox and select the new parent account.

Note: There are several special QuickBooks accounts for which the account type cannot be changed (e.g., Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Undeposited Funds, Payroll Expense). If the account type appears pale gray in the Edit screen, you will not be able to change the Account Type for that specific account.