QuickBooks Tip: Using ‘QBO’ On the Go

Imagine that you need to access QuickBooks Online when you are working remotely – say meeting with a client – and you are stranded without Wi-Fi. Don’t panic. Just download the QuickBooks Online Mobile app and you’ll be able to access your files, reports and invoices from your phone.

Although it doesn’t come with all of the features of QuickBooks Online, the app provides some of the more important features to mobile users. First released in 2012, QuickBooks Online Mobile is available on Apple and Android devices. Since QuickBooks Online is cloud-based, the mobile version’s user interface is nearly identical to that of its online counterpart, making it simple for users to access, manage, review and present financial data on the go.

Specifically, the QuickBooks Online mobile app allows users to:

• Create and generate invoices and estimates for clients
• Add photographs and notes to invoices, expense reports and estimates
• Record payments from customers
• Manage customers and their data
• Enter information for expense reports; and
• Generate sales reports

While the mobile app has a number of features that users value in QuickBooks Online, it is lacking a few capabilities, including:

• Customized reports are not available
• Invoices made in QuickBooks Online are not searchable
• There is limited access to bank and credit card account information

Although QuickBooks Online Mobile is missing some of the functionality that the full program offers, QuickBooks developers are making changes and updates to the app on a regular basis.

The app can be a lifesaver for business owners who spend a lot of time outside the office. For example, for a contractor in the field with a customer wanting to make project upgrades, the QuickBooks Online app allows him to immediately generate an estimate and present it to the client. The client can sign the estimate electronically on the spot, saving valuable time and money for the contractor.

If you haven’t already downloaded the mobile app by the time you’ve finished reading this blog post, get on it now! If you’re already using QuickBooks Online, the mobile app can give you access to most of the information you need when you don’t have your computer (or a Wi-Fi connection) with you, but you do have your phone.