How do I move/transfer my Quicken data file from one computer to another?

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Need to move your data from one computer to another? No problem — we’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step guide to transferring your Quicken data file from your current system to a new one.

Before you begin

There are a few things to be mindful of before you move your data file. Let's talk about them:

You may want to move your data file in various different scenarios. Some common ones include: 

  • Upgrading to a newer version of Quicken 
  • Using Quicken on a different system (think Windows-to-Mac or Mac-to-Windows) 

For both scenarios, you'll need to convert the file. For steps to convert, click here.

Remember, you don't need to buy another version of Quicken to move your data file. Just make sure the new destination computer has the same version of Quicken installed. 

  • For steps to download and reinstall a digital copy, click here.

We recommend not moving Quicken data files often. If you need to view a data file on a different device regularly, use Quicken on the Web instead. 

What would you like to do?

I want to share my data file between computers or on a network 

While it’s sometimes convenient to back up data files to a network, you should avoid running Quicken on a network or sharing your data file between two computers at the same time.

You should also avoid opening Quicken files from a cloud drive, such as Dropbox or OneDrive.

I want to move my data file to a different version of Quicken

If you’re upgrading to a new version of Quicken, or switching to a new system (Windows to Mac or Mac to Windows) you'll need to convert the file.  For steps to convert, click here.  

I want to install Quicken on other computers

See Can I Install Quicken On Multiple Computers? for more information on using Quicken on more than one computer.

To move your data file to another computer (Videos)

Moving your Quicken file from one computer to another 

Moving your data file using Dropbox 

To move your data file to another computer (Text)

Step 1: Install Quicken on your new computer

  1. Install Quicken on the new computer.  
  2. Make sure Quicken is on the latest release; Quicken should update when you install, but if you need help with this step, click here.

Step 2: Put a copy of your Quicken file on an external disk

  1. On your old computer, open Quicken and select File > Copy or Backup File
  2. Back up your data file to an external drive or disc, such as a USB drive, that you can use to move this backup to your new computer.

Step 3: Restore your Quicken file on the new computer

  1. Connect the external drive or disc to the new computer.
  2. Open the external drive or disc. To locate the external drive, right-click the Start menu and select File Explorer.
  3. Drag your Quicken file from the external drive or disc to your new computer's desktop.
  4. Open Quicken and select the File > Restore a Backup File. Navigate to your desktop and select your Quicken backup to restore the data file.
  5. Click OK
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