How to Convert an XLS to an OFX
By Joe Murray
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet program that employs a simple non-proprietary binary code (XLS) which allows it to work with several different formats. One of these is Comma Separated Format (CSV), which is commonly used in the transfer and storage of bulk data. This data may require separate lines of related information, such as addresses, to be linked together. The CSV format can be read and edited by Microsoft Excel programs. CSV also shares similarities with the OFX XML based code in so far as the structure of each consists of lines of data separated (delimited) by symbols.
Open Financial Exchange (OFX) files use the XML code to store, transfer and manipulate data over the internet. It primarily functions as a conduit to pass along data related to financial activities. Since XLS and OFX are two different formats, they do not work together directly.
A conversion program is needed to enable the transition from XLS to OFX.
Open the XLS document that is to be converted to OFX in the Excel program.
Select the entire spreadsheet by highlighting it.
Click on the Office button (Excel versions 2007 and 2010) in the upper left hand corner of the Excel program. Select the "Save As" command. On the bottom of the dialog box that opens, select the down arrow to the right of "Save As Type" and scroll down to the first "CSV (comma delimited)" entry. Click on this selection and save the file.This step is necessary to make the file simpler to convert to the OFX format.
Open a conversion program such as iCreate OFX Basic. Make sure to select the free trial version.
Upload the saved CSV file to the conversion program.
References
Tips
- Several XLS to OFX conversion programs are available on the internet. Internet sites to download many of these are listed in the resources section. Prices range from free to over a thousand dollars.
Warnings
- Converting XLS to OFX without a software program requires a working knowledge of XML, binary and CSV code and can be time consuming.
- When purchasing software on the internet, make sure to try the free version before buying. Some programs may not suit the intended purpose; others may be too complex for some to use.
Writer Bio
Joe Murray began writing professionally in 1980. As a technical writer, he authored white papers and articles for Hewlett Packard and Intel. Since retiring, Murray has written several home-exchange travel articles for KnowYourTrade.com and CHECtravel,com among other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Santa Clara University.