If Level 1 feels easy, go straight to Level 2. If Level 1 was challenging, take the Payroll course next as a “brain break.” If you plan to do the CleanUp course later, aim to be Level 2 certified first, with Payroll recommended to understand liability accounts.
Should I Take Payroll or Level 2 After QuickBooks Level 1?
The best next step after QuickBooks Online (QBO) Level 1 depends on how difficult you found the Level 1 certification.akadian+1
- Level 1 felt easy? Move directly to Level 2 (Advanced).
- Level 1 felt hard? Take the Payroll course next.
- Want to do both? You can bundle Level 2 and Payroll at a discounted price.
- Planning the CleanUp course? Be Level 2 certified, and take Payroll to understand liability accounts.
What If Level 1 Was Easy for Me?
If you found the Level 1 certification straightforward perhaps because you already use QBO or learn quickly, you’re likely ready to tackle Level 2 (Advanced) right away.akadian+1
Level 2 dives deeper into complex QBO features like inventory, class tracking, and multi-entity reporting. Since you’re already comfortable with the basics, continuing straight to Advanced keeps your momentum and builds on what you know.
What If Level 1 Was Hard for Me?
If Level 1 feels challenging and you’d like a break before diving into more advanced topics, the Payroll course is your best next step.
Payroll is structured differently from Level 1 and Level 2, focusing on running payroll, tax liabilities, and related accounts. Many students find it easier to grasp, making it a good “brain break” before returning to the more technical Level 2 content.
Can I Take Both Level 2 and Payroll Together?
Yes. If you already know you want both certifications, you can purchase Level 2 and Payroll together at a discounted bundle price.
This is a smart option if:
- You want to complete all core certifications efficiently.
- You plan to offer full-service bookkeeping or CAS (Client Accounting Services).
- You prefer learning payroll and advanced QBO features in one stretch.firmofthefuture+1
What Do I Need Before Taking the CleanUp Course?
The CleanUp course is an advanced offering that assumes you already know QBO inside and out.
Recommended prerequisites:
- Level 2 certification (strongly recommended)
- Payroll certification (recommended to understand liability accounts)
CleanUp focuses on fixing messy books, not teaching foundational QBO skills. Knowing how liability accounts workespecially from payroll is essential for successful cleanups.
Discounts on Level 2 and Payroll are often available when you enroll in the CleanUp Course.
Conclusion: What’s the Right Path for You?
Your next step after Level 1 depends on your comfort level with QBO basics. If Level 1 was easy, go straight to Level 2. If it was tough, take Payroll next. For CleanUp, aim for Level 2 first, with Payroll highly recommended.akadia.Whichever path you choose, structured learning and the right sequence will help you build confidence and credibility as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor