Easy Tech TutsHow to Add Bank Accounts in QuickBooks Online, Create New Accounts Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Setting up a new banking line in QuickBooks Online can go one of two ways: a manual register you update yourself, or a live connection that pulls transactions automatically. This guide covers creating the account in your Chart of Accounts and choosing between those two approaches.
01Open the Chart of Accounts
From the left sidebar, click Accounting, then Chart of Accounts.
02Start a new account
Click the green New button in the upper right of the ledger dashboard.
03Choose the account type
Select Banks or Credit Cards as the primary account type, then pick the exact detail type and name your account.
04Set up a manual register
For a manual account, enter an opening balance and starting date, then click Save.
05Or connect a live feed
Go to All Apps, then Bank Transactions, click Link Account, search for your bank, complete the secure sign-in, and choose which accounts to sync along with a historical data window.
Frequently asked questions
Should I create a manual account or connect a live feed?
A live feed automates transaction downloads, while a manual register is useful if your bank isn't supported or you prefer entering transactions yourself.
What's an opening balance and why does it matter?
It's the starting balance for the account as of your chosen start date, which keeps your trial statements balanced from day one.
How much historical data can I pull when connecting live?
You choose a historical data download window during setup, controlling how many past months of records QuickBooks pulls in.
Can I switch a manual account to a live connection later?
Yes, you can go to Bank Transactions afterward and link the same account to a live feed if your bank becomes available.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
