Light exports report data as CSV so you can open it in a spreadsheet application, import it into a BI tool, or share it with auditors and stakeholders.
Last updated Jul 22, 2026 · 2 min read
Filename format:
{reportName}_{startDate}_to_{endDate}.csv{reportName}_as_of_{endDate}.csvIf you're exporting a large number of ledger transactions, Light may prepare the file in the background instead of downloading it immediately. When this happens:
Smaller exports download instantly as before. Background processing applies only when the dataset is large enough that preparing the file would otherwise delay your workflow.
The exported file mirrors what you see on screen:
The separator character (comma or semicolon) follows your organisation's locale setting. If you need to change it, update your CSV separator preference in settings.
The drilldown view (opened by clicking a cell in any report) also has its own Export button. This exports the underlying ledger transaction lines for that cell as a separate CSV.
Every report in Light has a stable URL. To copy the link:
Anyone with access to Light and the appropriate permissions can open the link directly. This is the intended way to share a report with a colleague.
After exporting, open the CSV in Excel or Google Sheets to:
Auditor requests — Export trial balance, balance sheet, P&L, and aged AP/AR reports as CSV. Auditors can import these directly into their analysis tools.
Tax compliance — Export transaction detail by tax code to support VAT returns and income tax schedules.
BI and analytics tools — Import CSVs into Tableau, Power BI, Looker, or similar tools for advanced visualisation.
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