If you have data that was last processed on v15 and below, it is not possible to restore and convert it in the latest version of Sage 50 Accounts. Instead, you will need to export any relevant records from your old software, then import these records into your more up-to-date software. Once imported, you can then start again with opening balances.

Below is a simple overview of what you need to do.

1 - Back up your data

We recommend you take two backups of your data. This is in case you ever need to access the data again in the future for whatever reason - Read more >

2 - Run reports

To assist you later when you need to enter your opening balances, we recommend you run your management reports up to the last day of the period. These reports include your:

• Trial Balance
• Aged Creditors
• Aged Debtors
• Balance Sheet
• Profit and Loss
• If relevant, stock-level reports.

TIP: For your own records, we also recommend you print off an audit trail report before you install the newer version of Sage 50 Accounts. This is so you have a way to view historical transactions if and when needed. In addition print out any historical VAT returns.

3 - Export records

Export records to re-import later into your more up-to-date version of Sage 50 Accounts. 

Records you'll import later are:

• Nominal records
• Customer records
• Supplier records
• Product records
• If required, Project records
• If required, Fixed asset records

TIP: We recommend that you also export Audit trail transactions. You won't import Audit trail transactions later on, but this allows you to view historical transactions in a spreadsheet if you ever need to.

For more information and steps on how to export data - Read more >

4 - Install the newer version of Sage 50 Accounts

CAUTION: Do not upgrade or install if you have not taken any backups, run your reports, or exported your data.

If you haven't already, install the latest or newer version of Sage 50 Accounts that you need.

TIP: If possible, we recommend you install the newer version on a different computer so that you can easily access data on your v15 and below software if ever required.

Alternatively, during your install, when asked 'Would you like to upgrade this installation, or select a different folder for installation?' click New folder. This will prevent installing a newer version over the top of your older version.

For downloads and steps on how to do install Sage 50 Accounts, visit our Installation Hub.

5 - Create a new company

On your newer version of Sage 50 Accounts, create a new company if you haven't already. If you are not prompted by the Active Setup wizard, click Add Company and go from there.

For more information on how to create a new company read our step-by-step guide.

6 - Import Records

Once you have a new company set up, you can now import the records that you exported previously.

TIP: We recommend you import your Nominal Records first before other records such as customers, suppliers and products etc.

For steps on how to import data into Sage 50 Accounts - Read more >

7 - Create opening balances

Now you have imported your records, you can now enter opening balances.

For steps on how to do this - Read more >