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Essential QuickBooks® 2025 Year-End Tasks for Businesses

As we transition from autumn into the final stretch of 2025, business owners and accountants alike understand that a meticulous year-end close in QuickBooks® Online is crucial for a seamless start to 2026. With new QuickBooks® Online (QBO) features now available, let’s explore the key tasks that should top your to-do list before the year draws to a close.Image 1

1. Reconcile All Financial Accounts

It's imperative to leave no financial discrepancies before entering 2026. In Settings > Chart of Accounts > Reconcile, ensure bank and credit card accounts align with statements. Double-check balances and address items stuck in Undeposited Funds or Uncategorized categories – QBO's enhanced flags can assist in identifying unreconciled transactions, saving time later.

2. Scrutinize Customer and Vendor Balances

Deploy Accounts Receivable Aging and Accounts Payable Aging reports to reconcile customer dues and vendor payables. Promptly send statements for any outstanding amounts and, where business-savvy, write off bad debts. Monitor vendor records for inaccuracies and omissions.

3. Review Comprehensive Year-End Reports

Complete a thorough review of your Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, and Trial Balance reports. Pay attention to unusual activities such as negative equity or unexpected fluctuations. Filters can be applied by class or location within QBO to help uncover any significant anomalies.Image 2

4. Manage 1099 Contractor Details

Verify contractor classifications and data for 1099 compliance by navigating to Expenses → Vendors → Prepare 1099s. Confirm updated addresses, W-9 forms, and payment records to sidestep IRS complications in January.

5. Execute Final Adjustments and Close Financial Records

Key tasks include calculating depreciation, making amortization entries, addressing bad debts, and transferring owner equity and retained earnings. Ensure accurate fiscal year settings in Settings→ Advanced to lock in the period's closure, thereby safeguarding against unwanted modifications.

6. Update Payroll and Employee Files

If utilizing QuickBooks® Online Payroll, finalize payroll submissions including bonuses and commissions. Validate benefits, fringe benefits, and retirement accounts. Update employee details including addresses and SSNs, and pre-emptively resolve W-2 discrepancies.Image 3

7. Embrace New QuickBooks® Automations

With 2025 enhancements improving automation and user interface, ensure you leverage these changes to streamline operations. For practitioners managing several clients, the QuickBooks® Online Accountant suite is particularly beneficial.

Pro Tip: Implement QBO’s forecasting tools or conduct a “budget vs. actual” analysis to identify potential 2026 financial shortfalls. If expenditures exceeded expectations in 2025, consider reserve funds or recalibrate estimated tax contributions.

View the year-end checklist as an investment rather than a chore. By meticulously preparing your books, managing taxes and payroll, and taking full advantage of QBO’s latest features, you prepare your business for a prosperous 2026.

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