Lesson – How To Import The Chart Of Accounts

The custom Chart of Accounts is designed to give you a clear, organized starting point in GnuCash. You can upload the CSV directly into GnuCash to instantly populate your account structure—saving time, reducing setup confusion, and helping you begin tracking your finances with clarity and confidence. It’s a beginner‑friendly foundation you can grow with as your business evolves.

Section 1: Create a New GnuCash File

Follow the steps:

Follow the steps:

1. Open the Main Window Screen in GnuCash
2. Click File
3. Select New File

⚠ Important Step

When the Hierarchy Setup Wizard opens:

Click Cancel

Section 2: Import the Chart of Accounts

Follow each step carefully:

1. Click File
2. Scroll down and select Import
3. Click Import Accounts from CSV

Import Assistant Steps

4. Click Next on the Import Assistant screen

5. Choose your file location:

  • Where is your downloaded chart of accounts file saved?
  • (Example: Downloads folder)

Select the CSV file
Click Next

6. Review the Import Preview Screen

Do you see your accounts listed?

Yes ⬜ No ⬜

Click Next

7. On the Import Accounts Now screen
Click Apply

8. When the New Book Options window opens
Click Close

9. Review the Import Summary Screen

Did you see: “Import Completed Successfully”?

Yes ⬜ No ⬜


10. Click Close to finish


Section 3: Name and Save Your File

Now save your work:

1. Choose where to save your file
Location: ____________________________________________________

2. Enter a file name
File Name: __________________________________

3. (Optional) Create a new folder
Folder Name: ________________________________

4. Click Save As