Import bank transactions when your bank feed isn’t available

If you're not able to connect to your bank feed, you can import transactions. You can import your bank statement using a CSV, QIF or OFX file. You can usually download this from your online bank account.

If you only use bank feeds for a small number of transactions, you can wait until your bank feed's available. Or, enter your bank transactions manually.

Import transactions

1. Download or export transactions from your online bank account as a CSV, QIF or OFX files.
2. Import the file into Sage Accounting.
3. Process the transactions exactly as you would from your bank feed. Your bank rules will still apply.

If your bank statement is only available in PDF format, consider using AutoEntry. Upload a PDF version of your bank statement and AutoEntry will convert it to the required CSV format. 

Follow our guide on how to Import a bank statement using AutoEntry.

Tips to download the file from the bank

Every bank is different, so we can’t advise on how to find and download the required file. However, where possible, we recommend you follow these tips:

1. Depending on your bank, this can be downloaded or exported. Use the format CSV, QIF or OFX files.
2. The date range you use is important. To ensure you don't duplicate transactions, note the last transaction imported from your bank feed.
3. Where possible, choose a date range. The starting date should be the day after you downloaded the last transaction from your bank feed.
4. Make a note of your statement end balance. You’ll need this when reconciling your statement.
5. If you download a CSV file, amend the downloaded CSV file to make sure it's in the required format.

Prepare the CSV file

If you're importing using a CSV file, the import file must be in the correct format. Download a template file from the import page to help you.

Import your statement

1. Go to Banking.
2. Select Actions on the relevant bank account.
3. Choose Import statement.
4. Select the relevant file type. Then follow the steps to upload your bank statement file.

For detailed steps and troubleshooting advice, read our import bank statements guide.

Process your transactions

Imported transactions appear on the Incoming bank transactions screen, the same as if they are from your bank feed. To help you identify which ones you've imported from a file, they’ll have a label of Statement Import.

Process your imported transactions exactly as if they had come from your bank feed.

Bank rules will continue to apply.

When your bank feed becomes available

Once your bank feed is available, you'll need to authenticate with your bank. Make sure you have your online bank account credentials handy. Some banks also send a code to your mobile phone or via email for further authorisation.

Follow our article to connect Sage Accounting to your bank.

• How to Bank Reconcile transactions
• About Cleared Bank Transactions