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gina80
May 6, 2025 2:57 PM UTC
Question

Since yesterday my reports are downloading in a format that my computer doesn't recognize and I am unable to convert to Adobe. How do I change the default format?

How do I change the file format my reports are downloading in?

    15 replies

    RhoiceW
    May 6, 2025 5:07 PM UTC

    There are three options for changing the format for downloading your reports in QuickBooks Online (QBO), Gina. Let me guide you through the process.

    Before we begin, could you let me know what file format you've seen after exporting the data? This information will help us address your concern more effectively.
     
    To change the report format, choose from Excel, PDF, or CSV options. If you export the data as a PDF, you can convert it to an Adobe format.

     

     

    To convert the file to Adobe Reader, follow these steps:
     

    1. Export the report in PDF format.
    2. Locate the downloaded file in your folder.
    3. Right-click the file and select Open with.
    4. Choose Adobe Reader to convert it.

     
    Also, ensure your Adobe Reader is up to date to avoid any conversion errors.
     
    If your computer still doesn't recognize the data, I recommend troubleshooting to resolve any loading issues in QBO. Start by accessing QuickBooks in incognito mode or a private window.
     
    Here are the key shortcuts:
     

    • Google Chrome: Ctrl + Shift + N
    • Mozilla Firefox: Ctrl + Shift + P
    • Microsoft Edge: Ctrl + Shift + N
    • Safari: Command + Shift + N

     

    If this works, you can clear your browser's cache and cookies and any temporary files running in your browser that may have caused the malfunctions. Otherwise, you can use other supported browsers to ensure QBO runs efficiently.
     
    Furthermore, refer to this article for detailed steps in exporting your report in QBO.


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    After exporting your report, consider scheduling a memorized report in QBO. This will automatically run the report, saving you time each month or year.
     
    Following these detailed steps will help you access the correct format in QBO. If you have any further concerns, feel free to reply to this post. I am always here to assist you.

    GMH8409
    May 7, 2025 2:12 PM UTC

    This is happening to me.  I've schedule a report to be emailed to me.  In the past, all is well.  As of 5/5/25, the report is emailed but the attached file is not a pdf or an excel spreadsheet,  It's a file titled "attachment_20250506_081826" with no file extension that I cannot open.

      BigRedConsulting
      BigRedConsulting
      May 9, 2025 8:59 PM UTC

      Currently, QuickBooks supports attaching scheduled reports as Excel files only, BigRedConsulting. Let me provide you with an alternative way.  

       

      As a workaround, you can export your reports with the option to save them as PDFs. In that way, you can have the format you want. Here's how:

       

      1. Go to Reports and then Custom reports.
      2. Choose the report you want to export.
      3. Click Export beside Print.
      4. Select Export to PDF.
      5. Save as PDF.





      Additionally, you can utilize this article to learn how to tailor your reports to meet your business needs: Customize reports in QuickBooks Online.

       

      Moreover, you can refer to this article to learn about alternative ways for exporting your report outside QuickBooks: Get started with Spreadsheet Sync for QuickBooks Online Advanced or Accountant.

       

      If you have more questions about how PDFs work, revisit this thread or open a new one. We're always here to address any queries you may have.


      @TrixieD  RE: Currently, QuickBooks supports attaching scheduled reports as Excel files only, BigRedConsulting.

       

      Well, @GMH8409  wrote just s few posts back in this thread, "I've schedules a couple of test reports to be sent via email and it looks like they are being sent correctly now. I've received the emails and the attached reports are sent as pdf files."

       

      That is why I asked how to do that - to get PDF files.

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