QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 has long been a preferred accounting solution for small and mid-sized businesses that require advanced features, industry-specific tools, and desktop-based control. However, recent pricing changes and shifts in Intuit’s product strategy have raised concerns among business owners, accountants, and bookkeepers.
In this detailed guide, we will explore the price hikes associated with QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024, why these changes are happening, how they impact businesses, and what reliable alternatives are available. If you are evaluating whether to continue using Premier Plus or switch to a different accounting solution, this article will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024
QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 is a subscription-based desktop accounting software designed for businesses that need more advanced tools than QuickBooks Pro. It includes industry-specific features for sectors such as:
- Manufacturing and wholesale
- Retail
- Professional services
- Contractors
- Nonprofit organizations
Unlike older perpetual license versions, Premier Plus operates on an annual subscription model, meaning users must renew each year to continue using the software and receiving updates.
What Changed with QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus Pricing?
Shift from One-Time Purchase to Subscription
One of the most significant changes introduced in recent years is the complete transition from one-time purchases to subscription-based pricing. Businesses that were previously accustomed to buying QuickBooks once and using it for multiple years must now pay an annual fee to maintain access.
2024 and Beyond: Noticeable Price Increases
QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 experienced notable pricing adjustments compared to previous versions. These increases affect both single-user and multi-user subscriptions. In addition to the base subscription cost, extra fees apply for additional users, payroll services, and optional add-ons.
Many businesses have reported that renewal prices are significantly higher than their original subscription costs, making budgeting more challenging.
Why Are Prices Increasing?
Understanding the reasons behind these price hikes can help businesses evaluate whether the cost aligns with the value they receive.
Increased Development and Maintenance Costs
Accounting software must comply with changing tax laws, security standards, and operating system updates. Maintaining compatibility and security requires continuous investment, which contributes to higher subscription costs.
Focus on Subscription-Based Revenue
Subscription pricing provides predictable revenue for software companies. This model allows Intuit to deliver continuous updates, security patches, and support services but shifts long-term costs onto users.
Reduced Emphasis on Desktop Products
Intuit has been gradually shifting its focus toward cloud-based solutions. As desktop products become less central to the company’s strategy, their pricing reflects lower economies of scale and reduced mass adoption.
Impact of Price Hikes on Businesses
Higher Operating Costs
For small businesses, rising software costs directly affect profitability. Accounting software is a core operational tool, and increased fees can strain limited budgets.
Difficulty for Multi-User Teams
Businesses that require multiple users face even steeper costs, as each additional user increases the annual subscription expense significantly.
Pressure to Reevaluate Software Choices
Many businesses are now reconsidering whether QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus is still the best solution for their needs or if alternative platforms provide better value.
Is QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 Still Worth It?
Despite the price hikes, Premier Plus continues to offer strong advantages:
Strengths of Premier Plus
- Industry-specific reporting tools
- Strong inventory management features
- Desktop-based control without reliance on constant internet access
- Familiar interface for long-time QuickBooks users
- Robust financial reporting capabilities
However, these benefits must be weighed against the rising costs and limited future roadmap for desktop products.
Key Limitations of QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024
- Annual subscription required to retain access
- Higher renewal costs over time
- Limited remote access compared to cloud solutions
- Reduced availability for new customers in certain regions
- Uncertain long-term future for desktop-focused development
Best Alternatives to QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024
If you are considering switching, several accounting platforms offer strong alternatives depending on your business size, workflow, and preferences.
QuickBooks Online
QuickBooks Online is Intuit’s cloud-based accounting solution and the most direct alternative to Desktop Premier Plus.
Advantages:
- Access from anywhere with an internet connection
- Automatic updates and backups
- Easier collaboration with accountants and remote teams
- Scalable plans for growing businesses
Considerations:
- Ongoing subscription costs
- Some advanced desktop features may not be available
- Internet dependency
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise
For businesses that want to remain on desktop software, QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise is a more powerful option.
Advantages:
- Supports large datasets and more users
- Advanced inventory and reporting features
- Suitable for mid-sized to larger businesses
Considerations:
- Higher cost than Premier Plus
- May be excessive for smaller businesses
Xero Accounting Software
Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform designed for small and growing businesses.
Advantages:
- User-friendly interface
- Strong bank reconciliation tools
- Unlimited users on many plans
- Modern reporting and dashboard features
Considerations:
- Learning curve for QuickBooks users
- Some advanced accounting features require add-ons
Zoho Books
Zoho Books is a cost-effective accounting solution for small businesses and freelancers.
Advantages:
- Affordable subscription pricing
- Integrated invoicing and expense tracking
- Good automation features
- Part of a larger business software ecosystem
Considerations:
- Limited advanced inventory tools
- Less suitable for complex accounting needs
Sage Accounting Solutions
Sage offers both desktop and cloud-based accounting products.
Advantages:
- Strong accounting controls
- Suitable for businesses with complex reporting needs
- Reliable payroll and compliance tools
Considerations:
- Interface may feel less intuitive
- Pricing varies based on features
How to Choose the Right Alternative
When deciding whether to stay with QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus or switch, consider the following factors:
- Your annual software budget
- Number of users required
- Need for remote access
- Industry-specific features
- Inventory and payroll complexity
- Long-term scalability
Evaluating these aspects will help ensure you choose a platform that aligns with your business goals.
Tips Before Switching Accounting Software
- Back up all financial data before migration
- Review historical reports for accuracy
- Test the new platform with sample data
- Train staff before full transition
- Consult an accounting professional if needed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why did QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 increase in price?
Answer: The price increase is due to the shift to a subscription-based model, higher development and support costs, and Intuit’s strategic focus on cloud solutions.
Q2: Can I still use QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus without renewing?
Answer: No. If you do not renew your subscription, access to the software and company files becomes restricted.
Q3: Is QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus being discontinued?
Answer: While existing users can still renew, new sales availability has been reduced, suggesting a gradual shift away from desktop products.
Q4: What is the best alternative to QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus?
Answer: The best alternative depends on your needs. QuickBooks Online is ideal for cloud users, while Desktop Enterprise suits larger businesses. Xero and Zoho Books are strong non-Intuit options.
Q5: Will switching software affect my historical data?
Answer: Data migration is possible, but accuracy depends on the platform and migration method used. Always verify reports after migration.
Q6: Is cloud accounting more secure than desktop software?
Answer: Cloud platforms use advanced security measures, but desktop software offers local control. Both can be secure if managed properly.
Q7: How often do QuickBooks Desktop prices increase?
Answer: Price adjustments typically occur annually or during renewal periods, depending on Intuit’s pricing strategy.
Q8: Should small businesses continue using QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus?
Answer: It may still be suitable for businesses that rely heavily on desktop-specific features, but rising costs make alternatives worth considering.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2024 remains a capable accounting solution, but price hikes and strategic changes have altered its value proposition. For some businesses, renewing may still make sense due to familiarity and advanced features. For others, rising costs and uncertainty about desktop software’s future make exploring alternatives a smart move.
Carefully assess your business needs, compare long-term costs, and choose the accounting solution that supports your growth without unnecessary expense.