Easy Tech TutsHow to Set Up & Create My Chart of Accounts in QuickBooks Online Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Your Chart of Accounts is the backbone of accurate bookkeeping, and setting it up thoughtfully now saves headaches at tax time. This guide shows how to create new accounts, nest sub-accounts, and set opening balances in QuickBooks Online.
01Open the Chart of Accounts
Go to the Accounting section in the left sidebar and select Chart of Accounts.
02Start a new account
Click the green New button in the top right to open the account creation drawer.
03Choose account and detail type
Select the correct standard Account Type (Assets, Liabilities, Equity, Income, Expenses) and a precise Detail Type.
04Name it and add sub-accounts if needed
Enter a clear account name and description, and check Is Sub-Account if it should nest under an existing parent category.
05Set opening balances and save
Enter any historical starting balance and as-of date, then click Save and Close to add the account to your ledger.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Account Type and Detail Type?
Account Type is a broad category like Asset or Expense, while Detail Type is a more specific classification within it that helps QuickBooks route tax reporting correctly.
Can I nest accounts under a parent category?
Yes, checking the Is Sub-Account box lets you nest a new account under an existing parent line for better organization.
Do I have to enter an opening balance?
It's optional but recommended if you're setting up an account that already has a historical value, so your reports reflect an accurate starting point.
How do I keep old accounts from cluttering my list?
You can inactivate accounts you no longer use through the Action dropdown without losing their historical transaction data.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
