Restoring transaction data from a backup file on MAC

Mike79

I'm having some trouble trying to import transaction data from an old backup to my new file. I have a checking account that I need to get the transactions from to add to my current Quicken file, but I cannot seem to figure out an easy way to do this. I have tried exporting from that old file into different formats, and then trying to import them into my current file but this isn't working.

I have also tried copying and pasting from the register view of the old checking account and then opening the new file and pasting, but that's a no-go as well.

I'm confused by how hard this is to do. I'm essentially just trying to add all transactions from my checking account that I can no longer access through the normal online syncing. They are in this old file, but I can't get them into my current file.

[Edited - Readability]

Quicken Laura

Hi @Mike79,

Thank you for reaching out. While Quickenfor Mac does not offer a dedicated feature to move transactions directly from one data file to another, there are methods available to export and import account data. I recommend following the procedure provided by @jacobs as outlined here:

Step 1: Isolate the Checking Account

1. Open Quicken for Mac and go to File > View/Restore Backups.

1. Choose your old backup file and select Restore a Copy (do NOT overwrite your current live file).
2. Name this restored file something temporary, like TempOldData, and open it.
3. Go to your sidebar and delete every single account except for the specific checking account you want to move.
4. Delete any newer transactions in this temporary account that already exist in your live file to prevent duplicates.

Step 2: Export to QXF Format

1. With only your target checking account remaining in the temporary file, go to File > Export > Quicken Transfer File (QXF).

1. Save this .qxf file to your desktop.
2. Close the temporary file.

Step 3: Import and Drag Transactions into Your Live File

1. Open your current/live Quicken data file.
2. Crucial: Go to File > Save a Backup right now so you can revert if anything goes wrong.
3. Go to File > Import > Quicken Windows File (QDF, QXF) and select the .qxf file from your desktop.

1. The account will import into your sidebar as a new, separate account.
2. Click on this newly imported account, click the first transaction, hold Shift, and click the last transaction to select them all.
3. Click and drag the highlighted transactions directly onto your active checking account name in the left sidebar.

I hope this helps!