How to Add an Expense Category in Xero
- George Apostolov
How to Add an Expense Category in Xero: step-by-step guide
On Xero's main dashboard, head over to the top menu bar and click 'Accounting'.
Select 'Chart of Accounts' from the list of options.
Following that, tap 'Add Account' to proceed.
Tap the drop-down menu below Account Type.
Pick 'Expense' from the available choices.
Subsequently, provide other required details. Enter them into their respective input fields.
Once done, review your input and click 'Save'.
After completing these steps, a new expense category will be added to your Xero account.
Quick answer: To add an expense category in Xero, click 'Accounting' on the dashboard, select 'Chart of Accounts', and tap 'Add Account'. Next, choose 'Expense' from the Account Type drop-down menu, enter the required details into the input fields, and click 'Save' to complete the process.
About this Xero tutorial
Create a new expense category in Xero by navigating to your Chart of Accounts, selecting the Expense account type, and saving your details. This guide shows how to add an Expense Category in Xero in 8 steps, starting with "On Xero's main dashboard, head over to the top menu bar and click 'Accounting'" and finishing with "After completing these steps, a new expense category will be added to your Xero account". The interactive demo above is a click-through copy of the real Xero interface, so you can rehearse each step before doing it in your own account.
Frequently asked questions
How many steps does it take to add an Expense Category in Xero?
8 steps. Each one is listed in order above, and the demo highlights exactly where to click.
Can I try it without changing my own account?
Yes. Clicking through the demo doesn't touch your Xero data or settings. Once you know the flow, repeat it in your own workspace.
This tutorial is filed under Xero. Related guides: How to Add an Expense Claim in Xero, How to Add Departments in Xero and How to Add Invoices in Xero. Last reviewed 05 Oct 2026.
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