Easy Tech TutsHow to Make General Journal Entries in QuickBooks Online Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Some adjustments, like depreciation or owner's equity changes, don't fit standard invoices or expenses and require a manual journal entry. This guide walks through creating a balanced double-entry journal in QuickBooks Online so your books stay accurate.
01Open the Journal Entry form
Click the + New button and select Journal Entry from the Other column to open a blank double-entry form.
02Set the date and entry number
Enter the correct transaction date and assign a unique journal number for tracking.
03Enter your debit line
Choose the target account for the first row and enter the value under the Debits column, adding a memo for context.
04Enter your balancing credit line
On the second row, select the offsetting account and let QuickBooks calculate the matching value under Credits.
05Save and verify
Confirm total debits equal total credits, then click Save and Close to post the entry to your ledger.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my debits and credits don't match?
QuickBooks will flag a validation error and won't let you save the entry until the totals balance.
Can I attach a name or customer to a journal line?
Yes, you can add a name in the Name field on each row to tie the entry to a specific customer, vendor, or employee.
How do I check that a journal entry posted correctly?
Run a Journal Report or Transaction Detail report to confirm the entry appears with the correct account impacts.
Can journal entries be edited later?
Yes, you can reopen and edit a journal entry from the register, though it's best practice to keep a clear audit trail of changes.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
