Choosing Your Client's Setup Method

When setting up a new client in Digits, you can choose how to initialize their books — start fresh, import from QuickBooks, or migrate data from another platform.

Your chosen setup method determines how Digits builds your client’s Category Manager, which serves as their Chart of Accounts — the structure that defines how transactions are categorized and reported throughout the product.

---

Why Your COA Strategy Matters

Your Chart of Accounts (COA) determines how Digits classifies transactions, reports financials, and automates bookkeeping for your clients. Choosing the right setup path ensures accuracy from day one and minimizes cleanup later.

Tip: Always finalize your Chart of Accounts setup before connecting banks or apps. This ensures transactions map to the correct categories automatically.

---

Options	Choose this option if:
Start Fresh with Digits	Create a clean, standardized Chart of Accounts automatically when you start fresh with Digits. ✨ Digits analyzes your client’s data and generates a complete category structure that fits modern bookkeeping standards — no manual setup required. It’s ideal for: New clients without existing books Firms that want a consistent setup across all clients Businesses with outdated or inconsistent account structures Digits suggests categories you can edit, rename, or remove at any time, giving you full control while starting from a solid foundation. Next Step: → Connect Banks & Apps
Migrate from QuickBooks	If your client uses QuickBooks, you can import their existing Chart of Accounts during setup. Digits automatically maps categories from QuickBooks, saving time and reducing errors. This option preserves your client’s historical naming and category structure. Best when you want to maintain continuity and minimize rework. ⚠️ Warning: QuickBooks migration is only available during initial client setup. Complete this step before connecting any accounts. Next Step: → Migrate from QuickBooks
Upload a Custom Chart of Accounts (Non-Quickbooks)	If your client’s books live in another system — like Xero, Pilot, Puzzle, or Excel — import them manually using Digits’ CSV template. Import a CSV version of your client’s current Chart of Accounts using Digits’ import template. Include category names, types, and optional numbers to match your preferred structure. Upload the CSV before connecting banks or apps to ensure transactions map correctly. Best Practice: If your firm uses a standardized COA, save it as a master CSV. You can reuse this file for future clients to ensure consistency across your firm. Next Step: → Upload or Import Your Chart of Accounts

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Which setup method is best for my client?

If they already use QuickBooks, import their existing COA. If not, start fresh or upload a custom CSV.

Can I reuse the same COA across clients?

Yes — keep a master CSV for your firm and upload it during each new client setup.

Should I connect banks before or after setting up my COA?

After. Connecting accounts first can cause mismatched transaction categories.

Can I edit my COA later?

Absolutely. Use Category Manager anytime to adjust, merge, or deactivate categories.

Does Digits automatically map imported categories?

Yes. ✨ Digits automatically maps imported categories to align with your client’s transaction data.

Can I start with a clean, standardized COA?

Yes — choose Start Fresh with Digits to auto-generate a modern, editable structure.

I’m moving from Xero, Pilot, or Excel — what should I do?

Use the Upload a Custom COA option and import your CSV using Digits’ template.

---

Need a hand? Our team’s here to help — reach out anytime at [email protected]