Understanding QuickBooks Payroll Errors: Common Causes and Solutions

QuickBooks is a powerful tool for managing finances, but it’s not without its challenges. Payroll errors are among the most common issues users face. These errors can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you're trying to pay your employees on time. Understanding these errors and knowing how to fix them can save you a lot of headaches. In this article, we'll explain the most common QuickBooks Payroll errors and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve each one.

Common QuickBooks Payroll Errors

Error PS038: "Your latest payroll update didn’t complete successfully."
Error PS077: "QuickBooks is having trouble installing payroll tax table updates."
Error 15240: "Payroll update didn’t complete successfully. The file specified cannot be opened."
Error 30159: "Payroll error related to EIN status."
Error PS032: "There is a problem with your payroll subscription."
Error 12002: "QuickBooks cannot connect to the internet."
Error 17337: "QuickBooks is having trouble with a secure connection."

These errors often occur due to outdated software, incorrect settings, or internet connectivity issues. Below, we’ll go through each of these errors in detail, explaining why they happen and how you can fix them.

How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Errors

1. Error PS038: "Your Latest Payroll Update Didn’t Complete Successfully"

Cause: This error typically occurs when there is an issue with sending payroll data to Intuit.

Solution:

Step 1: Open QuickBooks and go to the Employees menu.
Step 2: Select "My Payroll Service" and then "Send Usage Data."
Step 3: If you see any unsent paychecks, send them now.
Step 4: After sending, try updating your payroll again.

If the error persists, you may need to update QuickBooks Desktop or repair your payroll subscription.

2. Error PS077: "QuickBooks is Having Trouble Installing Payroll Tax Table Updates"

Cause: This error often happens due to damaged company files or incorrect billing information.

Solution:

Step 1: Verify your QuickBooks license and payroll subscription. Make sure your billing information is up to date.
Step 2: Close QuickBooks and restart your computer.
Step 3: Reopen QuickBooks and try downloading the payroll update again.

If the error continues, you may need to repair your QuickBooks installation.

3. Error 15240: "Payroll Update Didn’t Complete Successfully"

Cause: This error is usually related to incorrect Internet Explorer settings or incorrect date and time settings on your computer.

Solution:

Step 1: Ensure that your computer’s date and time settings are correct.
Step 2: Open Internet Explorer and check that your security settings are set to medium.
Step 3: Make sure your QuickBooks is running as an administrator.
Step 4: Restart your computer and try updating payroll again.

4. Error 30159: "Payroll Error Related to EIN Status"

Cause: This error occurs when the Employer Identification Number (EIN) is not active in your payroll account.

Solution:

Step 1: Open QuickBooks and go to the Payroll Center.
Step 2: Select "Manage Service Key" and ensure that your EIN is correct and active.
Step 3: If the EIN is inactive, you will need to contact QuickBooks Payroll Support to reactivate it.

Once the EIN is active, you should be able to process payroll without any issues.

5. Error PS032: "There is a Problem with Your Payroll Subscription"

Cause: This error is often due to an expired payroll subscription or incorrect billing information.

Solution:

Step 1: Check your payroll subscription status in QuickBooks.
Step 2: Make sure your billing information is current and correct.
Step 3: Update your payroll subscription if necessary.

After updating your subscription, restart QuickBooks and try processing payroll again.

6. Error 12002: "QuickBooks Cannot Connect to the Internet"

Cause: This error occurs when QuickBooks is unable to connect to the internet due to incorrect settings or a weak connection.

Solution:

Step 1: Check your internet connection. Ensure that it is stable and working.
Step 2: Open Internet Explorer and reset your browser settings to default.
Step 3: Ensure that QuickBooks has the necessary permissions to access the internet.

Once you’ve verified your settings, try connecting QuickBooks to the internet again.

7. Error 17337: "QuickBooks is Having Trouble with a Secure Connection"

Cause: This error typically occurs due to incorrect SSL settings in Internet Explorer.

Solution:

Step 1: Open Internet Explorer and go to "Internet Options."
Step 2: Navigate to the "Advanced" tab and scroll down to the security section.
Step 3: Ensure that SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 are unchecked and that TLS 1.2 is checked.
Step 4: Apply the settings and restart your computer.

After restarting, open QuickBooks and try processing payroll again.

Tips for Preventing QuickBooks Payroll Errors

Preventing payroll errors is much easier than fixing them. Here are a few tips to keep your QuickBooks running smoothly:

Keep QuickBooks Updated: Regularly update QuickBooks to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
Verify Information: Always ensure that your billing information, EIN, and other critical details are up to date.
Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: Ensure that your internet connection is stable and secure when processing payroll.
Use Strong Security Settings: Keep your computer's security settings at medium and ensure that SSL/TLS settings are correct.

Accounting & Bookkeeping Services For Your Business can also help manage and prevent such errors by maintaining your financial records accurately and efficiently.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Payroll errors can be daunting, but they are manageable with the right knowledge. By understanding the causes of these errors and following the provided solutions, you can resolve most issues on your own. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your software updated and verifying your settings, will help prevent these errors from occurring in the first place.

If you encounter an error that you can't fix, don't hesitate to contact QuickBooks support for assistance. Properly managing your payroll is crucial for your business, and getting help when needed is always a good idea.