How do I completely delete a company file from desktop version?

Thanks for posting to the Community, @terry11_2-greenjeans.

You can delete the company file to prevent it from showing in the list of Company files. As mentioned above by @BigRedConsulting , you can locate and delete it like other files on your computer. You can type one of the following into the search bar in the Start Menu.

Make sure to include the asterisk (*) before the extension type (like *.qbw, *.jpeg, *.xls, *.js, *.docs, *.png) to ensure the search works correctly.

• *.qbw (Working Files)
• *.qbb (Back Up Files)
• *.qba (Accountants Copy Files)
• *.qbx (Accountants Transfer Files)
• *.qby (Accountants Change Files)

The default location for a company files is: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Intuit\QuickBooks\Company Files. If you want to keep a copy of the file in case you want to check it someday, you can create a backup file. Then you can delete the company file.

If you're unable to see the file extension, you can change the folder and search options on the folder and uncheck the box in Hide extensions for known file types to distinguish the extension file type.

Please follow these steps:

1. Go to the containing folder (C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Intuit\QuickBooks\Company Files) and select View on the menu.
2. Click Options and then select Change folder and search options.
   
3. Select View and then uncheck Hide extensions for known files.
4. Click Apply and hit OK.
   
   There it will show the extension file type and quickly trace the file to delete it.
   
   

If you want to remove/hide a company in QuickBooks Desktop, here's how:

1. Go to the File menu.
2. Select Close Company.
3. Click the Edit List button.
   
4. Put a check-mark next to the company file you want to delete.
5. Click OK.
   

I'll add some articles as your reference in creating a company file without starting from scratch:

• Create a new company file from an existing one.
• Rename your QuickBooks Desktop company file.

I'll wait for your Reply to check if there's something I can help you further. I'll assist you all the way. Enjoy your day!