Data Import & Export

How to Convert QuickBooks Check Numbers from Text to Numbers in Excel

Maira Mehtab Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

The user needs to convert check numbers exported from QuickBooks Desktop into Excel from text format to usable numeric values.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Exporting financial data from QuickBooks Desktop to Excel for analysis or record-keeping.
Observed behavior: Check numbers are exported and formatted as text rather than numbers, preventing standard numerical sorting or calculations.

Before you start

Ensure you have successfully exported your report from QuickBooks to Excel and locate the specific column containing the text-formatted check numbers.

Solution 1Recommended

Convert Text to Numbers Using Text to Columns

Use the built-in Text to Columns wizard in Excel to quickly reformat an entire column of text into numbers.

This method forces Excel to re-evaluate the data type of the selected cells, which is the fastest way to fix numbers stored as text in bulk.

Select the Data Column

Click the column header or highlight all the specific cells containing the check numbers that are currently stored as text.

Open Text to Columns

Navigate to the 'Data' tab on the top Excel ribbon and click on the 'Text to Columns' button located in the Data Tools group.

Choose Fixed Width

In the Convert Text to Columns Wizard, select 'Fixed Width' as the file type, then click the 'Next' button twice to reach the final step.

Set Data Format to General

Under the Column Data Format section, select the 'General' option, and then click 'Finish' to apply the conversion.

Conversion Complete: Excel will instantly process the column, converting the text-formatted check numbers into actual numerical values that can be sorted and calculated.

Professional Data Processing

Convert Text to Numbers Easily in WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Office provides a highly compatible and lightweight spreadsheet tool that handles data formatting effortlessly. You can fix imported QuickBooks data using the exact same Text to Columns process, absolutely free.

1. Open the Exported File: Open your exported QuickBooks Excel file in WPS Spreadsheet.
2. Select the Target Column: Highlight the column that contains your text-formatted check numbers.
3. Use Text to Columns: Go to the Data tab on the ribbon and click on Text to Columns.
4. Apply General Format: Follow the wizard, select Fixed Width, proceed to the final step, select General format, and click Finish.

Highly compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xlsx, .xls).Free and lightweight with a familiar user interface.Built-in data processing tools like Text to Columns for quick conversions.Seamless transition with zero learning curve for financial tasks.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do QuickBooks check numbers export as text?

QuickBooks often exports fields like check numbers as text to preserve leading zeros or special characters. This prevents spreadsheet software from accidentally altering or dropping digits from the raw data during import.

Can I use a formula to convert text to numbers instead?

Yes, you can use the VALUE function. Create a new column, enter the formula =VALUE(A1) (assuming your text is in cell A1), and copy it down. Then, copy the new formula cells and paste them as values over the original text.

How do I fix the 'Number Stored as Text' error using the warning icon?

If you see a small green triangle in the corner of your cells, highlight the affected cells, click the yellow diamond warning icon that appears next to the selection, and choose 'Convert to Number' from the dropdown menu.

Excel & Data Problems