I have a quickbooks software 2016 that now out of date as I canot activate it, how do I import the data to the online version?

Thanks for using QuickBooks, imogen-lago-bigp.

I'd be delighted to help import your data from QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) to QuicKBooks Online (QBO).

Since QBDT 2016 is an outdated version, you may need to use an upgraded version of the software when importing your data. But no worries, you can download a free trial version and use it in transferring your files to QBO.

Before we start, let's secure a backup copy of your QuickBooks Desktop company file to make sure that the data will be saved before upgrading. I'll show you how below:

1. Go to the File menu, choose Back Up Company, then select Create Local Backup.
   
2. Select Local Backup. Then, click Options.
3. In the Tell us where to save your backup copies field, select Browse and select the location in which to save the backup copy.
4. Hit OK.
   
5. In the Create Backup window, specify whether to back up automatically, and select Options to set options for automatic backups.
6. Select New to set a backup schedule in the Schedule Backups dialog.
7. Click Finish.

Here's an article for your reference on how to create a back up company file: Create a Backup of your Company File.

Once done, you can download the free trial and most updated version of QBDT and then open the back up company file from there.

For the complete instructions on how download the trial version, kindly check out this link: Download a trial of QuickBooks Desktop.

Finally, you can start migrating your data from QBDT to QBO. Let me share the instructions below:

1. Log in as an admin to the company file you need to import.
2. Go to the File menu, select Utilities, then choose Copy Company File for QuickBooks Online.
   
3. Save the exported file. Click Start your export.
4. Sign in as an admin to your QuickBooks Online company.
5. Follow the on screen prompt.
6. Select the Choose online company drop-down, and choose the QuickBooks Online company you want to be replaced by your company file.
7. Click Continue.
8. Enter Agree in the text field, then select Replace.
9. Select Yes, go ahead and replace the data, then select Replace.

This article will guide you through the whole process of moving your QuickBooks Desktop file to QuickBooks Online.

Get back to me if you have other questions. I'm always happy to help you further. Keep safe and have a great rest of the day!

@imogen-lago-bigp 

Just to clarify your needs. Which QB Desktop country version do you have? US, UK, CA?

Do you wish migrating to QB Online AU version or else?

https://quickbooks.grsm.io/Australia