Running payroll is essential for every business—but what happens when QuickBooks fails to update payroll properly? The QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working issue can block you from processing paychecks, calculating taxes, or accessing updated rates. Fortunately, this guide offers everything you need to fix it quickly and keep your business running smoothly.
Resolve the “QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working” error with proven solutions or call +1(866)408-0544 for expert help.
QuickBooks error PSXXX, QuickBooks error 15XXX, and service server error are the common payroll errors you encounter when updating the services. The different error messages you may encounter are,
“The file you specified cannot be opened,” or
“The file exists” or
“You’ve retrieved the latest payroll update and validated your Payroll subscription.”
Why payroll won’t update in QuickBooks Desktop?
Multiple reasons can hamper the payroll updates and can trigger different errors on your screen, such as error PS038 or other PSXXX, and the ones discussed above. Let’s explore the below pointers to get familiar with them:
• Incorrect Windows permissions may hinder the payroll updates
• Your QuickBooks program might not be registered to receive the updates from Intuit
You can also consider visiting this page if you’re managing job costs or payroll for construction businesses: QuickBooks for Contractors. It’s tailored to help with payroll-specific workflows and niche setups.
Top Causes Behind Payroll Update Failures in QuickBooks
Several factors can trigger the QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working issue, such as:
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Disabled QuickBooks File Copy Service (FCS)
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Inactive or expired payroll subscription
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Outdated QuickBooks Desktop version
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Firewall or antivirus blocking Intuit’s servers
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Internet connectivity issues or misconfigured settings
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Corrupted QuickBooks program files or company data
Fixing issues when downloading the payroll updates in QuickBooks
In the section below, we will discuss step-by-step instructions for fixing different errors you may encounter when updating the payroll services in QuickBooks Desktop. Perform these solutions with extreme care or contact professionals for further assistance.
1. Update Windows permissions
Windows permissions may block QuickBooks services and interrupt payroll updates. Follow the steps below to update the incorrect permissions:
• Launch the Windows Start menu on your server computer.
• In the search bar, type File Explorer and then choose File Explorer to open.
• Look for your QuickBooks program file, which look like this:
Processor Type File Path for QBW32.EXE
– 32-bit- C:\program files\intuit\quickbooks (year)
– 64-bit- C:\program files x86\intuit\quickbooks (year)
• Now, right-click on your QuickBooks program (QBW32.EXE) file and select Properties.
• Hit on Security and then click Edit.
• Select Add and type Everyone in the window. Then, click OK.
• Mark the checkbox for Full Control in the Security window and click OK.
• Hit Add again.
• Now, type “Users” in the window and then select OK.
• Choose the checkbox for Full Control in the Security window and click OK.
• Once all set, click Apply and then select OK to exit the settings.
2. Register and update your QuickBooks Desktop
Intuit only releases security updates if the QuickBooks software is registered. To ensure you receive updates, register for your QuickBooks program by following the steps below:
• While QuickBooks is open, press the F2 key to open the Product Information window.
• Now, review what the status says. If it’s Activated, you only need to download the QuickBooks updates.
You can also learn how to perform this process step-by-step in this detailed update guide.
If the status is inactive, follow the steps below to register QuickBooks Desktop.
• Open your QuickBooks Desktop software.
• From the top menu bar, select the Help menu.
• Select Activate QuickBooks Desktop from the drop-down.
• Now, follow the on-screen instructions to make sure the subscription is Active.
Now, proceed with the steps below to update QuickBooks Desktop
• Select Help from the top menu bar in QuickBooks.
• From the drop-down menu, click on Update QuickBooks Desktop.
• Go to the Update Now tab in the prompted window and then click on Get Updates to download the software updates.
• After this, open QuickBooks Desktop again and click Yes to install the recent updates.
Summary
Payroll updates are crucial steps to ensure accurate tax rates or calculations. However, common errors or issues can make it challenging to get the updates, which may hinder your business processes. If your QuickBooks payroll update is not working, following the above blog will help you resolve the issues in no time.
Need more help? Reach out to our support line at +1(866)408-0544 or browse this helpful post on QuickBooks Error 15276 – Update Fix Guide if you’re facing related issues.
