# Running a Parallel Close

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### What Is a Parallel Close?

A **Parallel Close** lets your firm close the same period in **Digits** and your current accounting system.\
It’s the easiest way to confirm that Digits matches your client’s financials before switching fully.\
Set up the client as usual, connect all accounts and apps, then run your close in both systems to compare results side by side.

***

### How a Parallel Close Works

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### **Set up your client in Digits**

* Add your client from the **Firm Dashboard**.
* Choose the setup option that matches their existing system (QuickBooks, Xero, or Manual CSV).
* Connect all relevant data sources — banks, credit cards, and integrations like Gusto, Stripe, Ramp, or BILL.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Run your month-end close in your current system**

* Complete reconciliations, adjustments, and journal entries as usual.
* Any manual entries or adjustments made there should also be recorded in Digits for an accurate comparison.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Run your close in Digits**

* Review transactions, categories, and balances.
* Confirm reports and reconciliations align with your existing system.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### **Compare your results**

* Match trial balances, income statements, and reconciliations.
* :sparkles:Verify how Digits categorizes transactions automatically.
* Identify any differences and confirm data integrity.

Once you’re confident that everything aligns, you can complete the transition and manage your client fully in Digits — no new setup required.
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### Frequently Asked Questions

<details>

<summary>Can I run a Parallel Close from systems other than QuickBooks?</summary>

Yes. You can continue reconciling and editing transactions in **QuickBooks** while testing Digits.\
However, any changes made in QuickBooks **after your cutover date** will **not sync** to Digits.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Why Run a Parallel Close</summary>

A Parallel Close helps your firm transition with confidence by testing Digits in real-world conditions before switching fully.\
It allows you to:

* Compare closing results between Digits and your current accounting system
* Validate Digits categorizations and reporting
* Identify any adjustments needed before going live
* Train your team and clients on Digits workflows

> 💡 **Tip:** Think of this as a live test drive.\
> Once your results match, your firm can switch entirely to Digits for faster, automated closes.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Why is it important to connect banks and apps before starting a Parallel Close?</summary>

:sparkles: Connecting your client’s banks, credit cards, and apps to Digits to start categorizing transactions automatically.\
This shows you exactly how Digits handles real financial data — speeding up reconciliation, improving accuracy, and demonstrating how automation will work once you fully switch.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Do I need to duplicate every manual entry?</summary>

Yes. If you make manual journal entries or adjustments in your old system, recreate them in Digits so the two systems stay in sync for accurate comparison.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How long should a Parallel Close last?</summary>

Most firms run a Parallel Close for one accounting period (usually a month). Once results match and your team feels comfortable, you can complete your cutover and manage all future work in Digits.

</details>

***

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Got a question or feedback? Our team is all ears—come say hello!
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<p align="center"><a href="https://portal.usepylon.com/digits/forms/get-in-touch-with-digits-support" class="button primary" data-icon="envelope-open-text">Contact Digits Support</a></p>
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