Import a Bank Statement PDF into Accounting Software
Accounting apps almost always have a bank import screen, but it usually wants a CSV or OFX file, not a PDF. Converting the statement first gets you past that wall without retyping a single transaction.
Your file is never uploaded. RowSmith reads text-based PDF statements in your browser. Scanned PDFs aren't supported yet. Always review the rows before you use them.
Open the free statement converter
Steps
- Find the import option in your accounting software and note which columns it asks for.
- Convert the statement PDF to CSV in RowSmith and pick the layout closest to those columns.
- Open the CSV once to confirm the date format and amount signs.
- Upload the CSV on the import screen and map each column when asked.
Good to know
Column mapping
Import screens typically ask which column holds the date, the description and the amount. Some want a single signed amount, others want money in and money out in two columns. Match your export to what the screen expects and the mapping step becomes a couple of clicks.
Avoid double entries
If the account is also linked by a live bank feed, importing the same dates again can create duplicates. Import only the period the feed is missing, and check the first and last date in the CSV before uploading.
OFX instead of CSV
If your software prefers OFX, our free CSV to OFX tool can turn the CSV into that format, also inside your browser.
Questions
Why won't the app accept my PDF directly?
A PDF is a printed page, not structured data. Import screens need rows and columns, which is what the CSV gives them.
What if the import rejects the dates?
Dates are written as YYYY-MM-DD. If your software insists on another order, change the column format in a spreadsheet before uploading.
This guide was written with AI assistance and reviewed against the converter's behaviour. Always review your output before using it.
RowSmith is an independent tool and is not affiliated with any bank or software company.
Converting is free. RowSmith Pro ($9/month or $59/year) adds suggested Schedule C categories, saved cleanup rules and monthly category totals.