How to Add an Account in Xero

In this Xero training, I’ll show you how to add an account to your Chart of Accounts.

Quick Instructions:

  1. Click Accounting -> Chart of Accounts in the top menu
  2. Click the “+ Add Account” button
  3. Enter your new account’s information
    1. Select the Account Type from the drop-down list
    2. Fill in the Code field
    3. Fill in the Name field
    4. Fill in the Description field (optional)
    5. Select the tax setting from the Tax drop-down list
  4. Click the green Save button

Keep reading for full instructions with screenshots.

From the Xero dashboard click on Accounting in the top menu and then select Chart of Accounts.

Navigating to the Chart of Accounts from the main menu in Xero

This will take you to the Chart of Accounts. In this example, I’ll be adding an expense account for education.

If you scroll down the list of accounts you’ll eventually get to your expenses. On the left are the account numbers.

Expenses in the Chart of Accounts in Xero

I’ll be creating an education expense and I’ll make it account number 611.

The only rhyme or reason for using #611 is that I can see expenses start with a 6 and I can’t duplicate an existing number.

To add the new account scroll back to the top of the screen and click the “Add Account” button.

Add Account button in Xero's Chart of Accounts

A pop-up will appear where you enter the new account’s information.

Select the type of account you’ll be creating from the Account Type drop-down list. I’ll be selecting Expense.

Entering Account Type when adding a new account in Xero.

In the Code box, I’ll enter 611.

Entering account Code in Xero.

Enter the name of your new account in the “Name” field.

Naming a new account inXero

The description field is optional.

Next, select the tax percentage from the drop-down list. I’m going to select Tax Exempt (0%).

Tax setting when creating a new account in Xero

When you’re done click the green Save button.

That’s how easy it is to create an account in Xero.

Remember to check the account numbers before adding a new account. You want to make sure you’re using the correct first digit for the type of account you’re creating. And that you’re not repeating a number.

If you do try to use a code that’s already in use you’ll get the following error message:

Code error when creating a new account in Xero if you accidently use an existing code number.

If you have any questions about creating accounts in Xero please ask them in the comments.

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If you’d like to watch me walk through this process check out the video below:

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This content is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or tax advice, or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. Gentle Frog, LLC does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. Gentle Frog, LLC does not warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers and viewers should verify statements before relying on them.

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