QuickBooks Payroll is a lifeline for many small and medium-sized businesses. It automates employee payments, tax calculations, and compliance tasks. But when you're hit with the dreaded QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working issue, your entire payroll process can grind to a halt.
Resolve the "QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working" error with expert tips, troubleshooting steps, and professional solutions.
In this article, we'll walk you through why QuickBooks Payroll Update fails, how to troubleshoot it, and what steps you can take to resolve the problem efficiently. If you're still stuck, help is just one call away at 1.866.409.5111.
Why QuickBooks Payroll Update Might Not Be Working
Understanding the why behind the problem is the first step in fixing it. Here are the most common reasons QuickBooks Payroll update may fail:
Internet connection issues
Incorrect date or time settings
Damaged QuickBooks installation
Firewall or antivirus blocking the update
Corrupted company files
Inactive payroll subscription
System not running with admin rights
Each of these causes requires a different fix, which we’ll break down below.
Signs Your Payroll Update Isn't Working
You may notice any of the following symptoms:
Update gets stuck at a certain percentage
You receive error codes (e.g., PS038, PS107, PS077)
Payroll data is outdated
Tax table won’t download
Employees are missing from the paycheck window
Troubleshooting QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working
Let’s explore some proven methods to resolve this issue. Start from the top and work your way down until the issue is resolved.
1. Check Your Internet Connection
QuickBooks needs a stable internet connection to connect with Intuit servers.
Open a browser and visit any website.
If it doesn’t load, reboot your router or switch to a different network.
Pro Tip: QuickBooks works best with Internet Explorer settings. Even if you don’t use IE, make sure its connection settings are accurate.
2. Run QuickBooks as Administrator
Sometimes the issue is just permission-related.
Right-click the QuickBooks icon
Select Run as Administrator
Try updating payroll again
3. Verify Your Payroll Subscription
Your payroll update may not work if your subscription is inactive.
Go to Employees My Payroll Service Account/Billing Information
Login to check your subscription status
Renew or activate if required
4. Adjust Date and Time Settings
Incorrect system time can block secure server connections.
Right-click your system clock
Select Adjust Date/Time
Set the correct time zone and sync with the internet
5. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus
Security tools can mistakenly block QuickBooks services.
Disable your firewall temporarily
Try updating payroll
If it works, add QuickBooks as an exception
6. Update QuickBooks Desktop
Running an outdated version can lead to compatibility issues.
Go to Help Update QuickBooks Desktop
Select Update Now and install the latest release
7. Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub
This utility can fix update errors automatically.
Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub
Launch it and go to Program Problems
Run Quick Fix my Program or Payroll Error Tools
8. Perform a Clean Installation
If none of the above works, it might be time to reinstall QuickBooks.
Steps:
Uninstall QuickBooks from the Control Panel
Download the Clean Install Tool from Intuit
Reinstall QuickBooks and activate your payroll service
Preventing Future Payroll Update Issues
Here’s how you can avoid running into the QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working problem in the future:
Keep QuickBooks up to date
Maintain an active payroll subscription
Use a wired internet connection when possible
Regularly back up your company file
Whitelist QuickBooks in your security software
When to Call in the Experts
If you’ve tried every fix and the payroll update still won’t go through, it’s time to seek professional help.
Call 1.866.409.5111 to speak with a certified QuickBooks expert who can guide you through more advanced solutions tailored to your setup.
This is especially useful if:
You’re encountering multiple error codes
You’re working on a network or multi-user setup
Payroll data is missing or corrupted
Your employees' paychecks are inaccurate
Final Thoughts
The QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working issue can be a major roadblock, especially during payroll deadlines. But with the right steps—and a little patience—you can get your payroll system back on track quickly.
By following the methods above and staying proactive about updates and maintenance, you’ll reduce the chances of facing this issue again. And if things get out of hand, don’t hesitate to reach out at 1.866.409.5111 for fast, reliable help.
