CSV to IIF: Import Transactions to QuickBooks Desktop

What is an IIF File?

IIF (Intuit Interchange Format) is a tab-delimited text format used by QuickBooks Desktop to import lists and transactions. Unlike QBO files (which are for QuickBooks Online), IIF files work with the desktop versions: QuickBooks Pro, Premier, and Enterprise.

CSV to IIF Conversion Steps

1. Export transactions from your bank as CSV.
2. Use our CSV to IIF converter — free and unlimited.
3. Map your columns: Date, Description, and Amount.
4. Download the IIF file.
5. In QuickBooks Desktop: File > Utilities > Import > IIF Files.

IIF File Structure

An IIF file for bank transactions looks like this:

!TRNS  TRNTYPE  DATE  ACCNT  AMOUNT  MEMO
!SPL   SPLID    DATE  ACCNT  AMOUNT  MEMO
!ENDTRNS
TRNS   DEPOSIT  01/15/2026  Checking  500.00  Payment received
SPL    1        DEPOSIT     01/15/2026  Income  -500.00  Payment received
ENDTRNS

Common Issues

• Duplicate transactions: QuickBooks Desktop doesn't always detect duplicates on IIF import — check your register after importing.
• Account names: The converter uses "Checking" and "Income/Expense" by default. You can rename these to match your Chart of Accounts.

When to Use IIF vs QBO

Use IIF for QuickBooks Desktop. Use QBO for QuickBooks Online. They are not interchangeable.