How to import journal entries

Summary

How to import journal entries using a CSV file in Sage Accounting.

Resolution

To import journal entries, prepare a CSV file that meets these requirements:

 

  • Include only journal entries for existing ledger accounts
  • Create all ledger accounts in the chart of accounts before import
  • Use the CSV file format
  • Match column headings and formatting from the journal template

Download the CSV template

  1. Go to Adjustments, Journals, then select Import Journals from the dropdown arrow.
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  2. Select the CSV template link in the Import Journals window.
  3. Open the downloaded file from your device.

Preparing the journal file

Review your file against the template before importing.

  1. Keep all column headings unchanged.
  2. Replace sample data with your journal entries.
  3. Reorder columns if needed, but keep the headings intact.
  4. Move unused columns to the end for easier entry.
  5. Match data formats exactly to the template.
  6. Keep the file size under 0.5 MB or split the file.

The header row must match the field names listed in the table below.

Import multiple lines in one journal entry

  1. Use the same reference number for each related line.
  2. Complete columns A, B, and C once per journal.
  3. Ensure the Debit and Credit amounts balance to zero.

The system creates a new journal when the reference number changes.

NOTE:

The example hides some columns in the template file.

 

Column Field name Type Compulsory Notes
A Reference Text Yes Numbers, letters, or a mix of both. Limit: 75 characters.
B Date Number Yes Numbers in month, day, year format (for example, 01/01/2022).
C Description Text No Numbers, letters, or a mix of both. Limit: 200 characters.
D Ledger Account Number Number Yes Enter a ledger account number from your chart of accounts. Add new accounts before importing journals. Enter only the account number, not the name.
E Details Text No Numbers, letters, or a mix of both. Limit: 200 characters.
F Analysis Type 1 Text No

Enter analysis types exactly as in Accounting. Add new types before importing journals. Limit: 250 characters. Change cell format from General to Text.
G Analysis Type 2 Text No
H Analysis Type 3 Text No
I Include on Tax Return Text No Enter Yes, Y, No, or N.
J Debit Number Yes Debit and Credit amounts must be ≤ 99999999.00. Enter only numbers.
K Credit Number Yes
L Exchange rate Number No Optional for foreign currency journals. Enter only numbers.

Import the journals file

  1. Go to Adjustments, Journals, then select New Journal.
  2. Select Import Journals.
  3. Select Choose File and open your CSV file.
  4. Select Upload.
  5. Resolve any errors and reupload if needed.
  6. Select OK to complete the import.

Wait for the import to finish before entering new transactions when importing large files.


 

Related Solutions

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Solution Properties

Solution ID
240304191549557
Last Modified Date
Tue Apr 07 01:25:25 UTC 2026
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