What if Quicken can't open my data file when converting my data from a previous version?

When you upgrade to a newer version of Quicken, your existing data file must be converted to the newer format. In most cases, Quicken handles this conversion automatically the first time you open your file. However, if Quicken can't find or access the file you want to convert, you may see a Can’t open file message. This usually means that the file is in the wrong location, locked by file permissions, damaged, or stored on a device that Quicken can’t read from directly.

Note: Quicken 2017 and earlier versions have been discontinued and are no longer supported. You can still open their data files in a current subscription version of Quicken. For details, see the Quicken Discontinuation Policy.

To resolve this, follow the steps below to check the file’s location, access settings, and system requirements.

Check the file location

Quicken expects your current data file to be in the default Quicken folder. If your file is stored elsewhere—such as in the Quicken\BACKUP folder—Quicken may display the Get Started with Quicken dialog.

To avoid this:

1. Copy your current data file into the Quicken folder (usually under Documents).

2. Open the file from that location.

3. Quicken should recognize the file and bypass the Get Started screen.

Verify file access

Only one instance of Quicken can run on a computer at a time. If you're sharing the computer with other users, make sure each user has permission to open the file.

To check file permissions:

1. Right-click the data file and choose Properties.

2. Select the Security tab.

3. Make sure all intended users have Modify or Full control access.

Check external media and file properties

If you're restoring the file from a USB drive, CD, or other external storage:

1. Copy the file to your computer’s hard drive.

2. Right-click the copied file and choose Properties.

3. If the Read-only box is selected, clear it and click OK.

Make sure there’s enough free disk space

Quicken needs at least three times as much free disk space as the size of your data file to complete the conversion.

To check:

1. In File Explorer, select your Quicken data file and note its size in the status bar.

2. Select the drive where the file is stored.

3. Make sure the available space is at least three times the file size.

If needed, delete or move other files to free up space.

Try repairing the file in the older version

If the file still won’t open, try repairing it in the previous version of Quicken:

1. Open the older version of Quicken.

2. Select File > File Operations > Validate and Repair.

3. After the repair completes, try converting the file again.