What are account detail types?
In QuickBooks Online, account detail types help organize your Chart of Accounts and ensure your financial reports are accurate. When you create a new account, you select a broad account type (such as Asset, Liability, Income, or Expense) and then choose a specific detail type. The detail type tells QuickBooks exactly where to place the account on standard reports like the Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss (P&L) statement, following accounting standards.
Detail types are predefined and cannot be customized. If you cannot find an exact match for the account you need, select the option that is the closest fit.
To view the available detail types for a specific account type:
- Select the Settings gear icon.
- Choose Chart of Accounts.
- Select New to open the account setup window.
- Under the Account Type dropdown, select the category you are interested in (for example, Expenses).
- Once selected, view the Detail Type dropdown to see all available subcategories for that account type.
When you are finished viewing the options, you can close the window without saving if you do not wish to create a new account at this time.