How to Resolve QuickBooks Payroll Error PS077?

When using QuickBooks accounting software, users often encounter payroll issues. One such technical issue is the Payroll error PS077. This issue displays that the software settings are wrongly set up or are incorrect. This error typically appears in QuickBooks when the payroll tax table update fails to install. It is related to the PSXXX series of payroll-related errors. 

In some scenarios, this issue can be complicated to fix. It stops users from using crucial payroll features. Users need to update QuickBooks Payroll consistently to continue accessing its functionalities. While updating, the error PS077 often arises and interrupts the process. 

In this guide, complete information on the QuickBooks error PS077 has been shared. This guide shares the causes and the trusted methods to resolve this issue with ease.

What exactly is QuickBooks Error PS077?

QuickBooks Error PS077 is related to payroll update issues. It interrupts the payroll processing and impacts financial activities. The issue arises while installing or downloading the payroll tax table updates. For correct payroll processing, these updates are mandatory.

Here is the error message displayed for this payroll issue:

QuickBooks: Problem With Installing Payroll Tax Table Update

Error PS077 When Downloading Payroll Updates

In QuickBooks, errors starting with “PS” relate to payroll issues. These issues disrupt the software activities and slow down essential updates. Furthermore, the tax table may freeze or be unable to install. Sometimes, the error causes the system to freeze.

What are the Causes behind the QuickBooks Payroll Error PS077?

Multiple factors can give rise to the QuickBooks Payroll error PS077. Some issues are due to system errors, and others are caused by user actions.

Here is the list of the reasons:

• The QuickBooks company file is corrupted.
• The QuickBooks accounting software is unregistered.
• There is a damaged file in the CPS folder.
• Wrongly configured internet network.
• An invalid or corrupted tax table exists in the Components or Payroll folder.
• The billing details are wrong or outdated. 
• An unsuccessful installation.
• Payroll updates are interrupted due to the firewall.

Signs of QuickBooks Error PS077

Error PS077 shows clear signs and indications of its presence. Detecting these symptoms assists users in reacting swiftly. 

Here is the list of symptoms:

• The payroll tax table update fails to start or becomes unresponsive.
• The system stops responding or pauses unexpectedly while in use.
• QuickBooks is unsuccessful in installing or downloading the payroll updates.
• The PS077 error message is displayed on the screen.
• The system is unresponsive to mouse or keyboard inputs.

Steps to Consider Before Troubleshooting Payroll Error PS077

To update the payroll and tax tables, it is crucial to fix the PS077 QuickBooks Desktop error. However, prior to troubleshooting this error, there are certain key points to consider.

Check out these crucial steps before implementing any solution for the error PS077:

• Check the accuracy of the billing details in the payroll account.
• Make sure only one QuickBooks application is saved on the computer.
• Ensure to take a QuickBooks company file backup.
• Confirm your QuickBooks payroll subscription.
• Ensure the QuickBooks program is updated to its latest release.
• Fix the QuickBooks Desktop application to avoid software problems.

How to Resolve QuickBooks Payroll Error PS077?

The QuickBooks Desktop Payroll error PS077 occurs due to several reasons. One specific method may be unable to resolve it. In case the root cause is not certain, try the following solutions to fix the issue:

Solution 1: Verify Your Payroll Service Subscription

Payroll updates may be blocked if the subscription is inactive or expired. Here are the steps to review the subscription status:

1. Close every company file currently in use.
2. Restart the system. 
3. Now, open the QuickBooks software and head towards the “Employees” menu.
4. Choose the option “My Payroll Service”.
5. Now, click the option “Manage Service Key”.
6. Review the service status and name. 
7. Verify that the status displays “Active”.
8. Press the “Edit” option and confirm the service key. 
9. Add the right key if required.
10. Press the “Next” button.
11. Now, clear the checkbox for “Open Payroll Setup”.
12. Choose the “Finish” button to proceed.
13. Now download the payroll update once more.

Solution 2: Register QuickBooks and Download the Latest Tax Table Updates

Error PS077 may occur if QuickBooks is not registered or outdated. Here are the steps to register and update QuickBooks:

1. Click the “F2” button to start the “Product Information” screen.
2. Verify the license number.
3. Check that it says, “Activated”.
4. In case the status is not activated, you must register QuickBooks using these steps:
   • Head to the “Help” menu.
   • Choose the option “Activate QuickBooks Desktop”.
   • Complete the guidelines.
   • Add the Product and License information when asked.

Once the registration is complete, update the QuickBooks program using these steps:

1. Head to the “Help” menu.
2. Now choose the option “Update QuickBooks Desktop”.
3. Press the option “Update Now”.
4. Choose the option “Get Updates”.
5. Exit and open QuickBooks again.
6. Now choose the option “Install Now” when notified.

Now update to the newest payroll tax table version:

1. Open the “Employees” menu.
2. Press the option “Get Payroll Updates”.
3. Choose the option “Download Entire Update”.
4. Now press the option “Update”.
5. Wait until the information screen appears. It verifies that the update was complete.

Solution 3: Add Defender Exclusion and Run Quick Fix My Program

QuickBooks error PS077 may occur due to interruption from antivirus. Here are the steps to add QuickBooks to Windows Defender’s exclusion list and perform a quick repair:

1. Exit the company file and close QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Include a Windows Defender exclusion. You can also temporarily switch off the antivirus program.
3. Start the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
4. Choose the “Program Problems” tab.
5. Press the option “Quick Fix My Program” and let the tool finish the process.
6. Open QuickBooks again.
7. Now update QuickBooks to its current release.
8. Download the current payroll tax table and install it.

Solution 4: Run Quick Fix My Program from QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub comprises features that fix installation and software issues. Here are the steps to fix the issue PS077:

1. Shut down the company file and close the QuickBooks Desktop program.
2. From the official site, download the QuickBooks Tool Hub and install it.
3. Start the tool and run the “Program Problem” tab.
4. Choose the option, “Quick Fix My Program”. Allow the tool to finish the repair.
5. Open QuickBooks and the company file again.
6. In case the installation issue still exists, head to the “Installation Issues” tab present in the Tool Hub.
7. Choose the option “QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool”.
8. Now press the option “Start Scan”.
9. Allow the scan to complete. 
10. Reboot the system and check if the issue exists or not.

Solution 5: Repair the QuickBooks Desktop Application

In some cases, system bugs trigger the error PS077. Here are the steps to fix the QuickBooks Desktop application:

1. Reboot the system.
2. Shut down all the active programs disrupting the QuickBooks application.
3. Press the Start menu.
4. Now, open the Control Panel. Choose the “Programs and Features” option. 
5. Press the option “Uninstall a Program” if required. 
6. From the list of programs, choose the option, “QuickBooks”.
7. Now, press the option “Uninstall/Change”.
8. Choose the option “Continue”.
9. Now, press the “Next” button.
10. Select the “Repair” button. 
11. Now press the “Next” button. Allow the process to finish.
12. Reboot the system and check if the issue persists.

Solution 6: Prevent Blockages by Modifying Firewall Settings

QuickBooks updates are often restricted by Windows Firewall. Resolve it by reconfiguring settings via the following actions:

Action 1: Run QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

1. Start the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Choose the “Company File Issues” tab.
3. Select the “QuickBooks File Doctor” tab. In case it fails to open, in Windows, look for “QuickBooks Desktop File Doc”. Try to start it manually.
4. Choose the company file from the available list. You can also click the “Browse” option.
5. Press the option, “Check your File and Network”.
6. Now choose the option “Continue”.
7. Add the admin password.
8. Now press the “Next” button.
9. Once the scan is over, open the file. 
10. Confirm the issue.
11. Depending on the file size, the scan may take as long as five minutes.

Action 2: Manual Firewall Configuration

In case the File Doctor tool is unsuccessful, set up the Windows Firewall manually using port exceptions. Here are the steps:

1. Click the Start menu. 
2. Enter “Windows Firewall” in the search bar, then click to open.
3. Press the option “Advanced Settings”.
4. Now hit right-click the “Inbound Rules” option.
5. Choose the “New Rule” option.
6. Choose the “Port” option.
7. Now press the “Next” button.
8. Select the “TCP” option.
9. Add the following port numbers for your relevant QuickBooks version:
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2019: 8019, [Dynamic Port]
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2020 and later: 8019, [Dynamic Port]
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 8019, 56727, 55373–55377

To locate the dynamic port, follow these steps:

1. In the Start menu, run the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
2. Head to the option “Port Monitor” and locate the QuickBooks version.
3. Make a note of the port number. Include it to the Windows Firewall exclusion list.

To refresh the port settings, follow these steps:

1. Head to the option “Scan Folders” in the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
2. Press the option “Scan Now” to restore firewall settings to default.
3. Only for version 2019 and later, port renewal is available.
4. Once the port number is added, press the “Next” button.
5. Choose the option “Allow the Connection”.
6. Press the “Next” button once more. Review all the profiles.
7. Add a name for the rule and press the “Finish button.
8. Choose “Outbound Rules” instead of “Inbound Rules” to repeat the steps.

Action 3: Add Executable File Exceptions

For operations, QuickBooks accesses the executable files. Include these firewall exceptions:

1. Open the Windows Firewall.
2. Head to the “Advanced Settings” option.
3. Hit right-click on the option, “Inbound Rules”.
4. Choose the option “New Rule”.
5. Select the “Program” option. 
6. Press the “Next” button.
7. Choose the option “This Program Path”.
8. Press the “Browse” option to select any of the given files:
   • AutoBackupExe.exe
   • Dbmlsync.exe
   • DBManagerExe.exe
   • FileManagement.exe
   • FileMovementExe.exe
   • IntuitSyncManager.exe
   • QBCFMonitorService.exe
   • QBDBMgr.exe
   • QBDBMgrN.exe
   • QBGDSPlugin.exe
   • QBLaunch.exe
   • QBServerUtilityMgr.exe
   • QBW32.exe
   • QuickBooksMessaging.exe
9. Press the “Next” button.
10. Choose the option “Allow the Connection”.
11. Press the “Next” button.
12. Select all profiles. 
13. Add a name to the rule and press the “Finish” button.
14. For Outbound Rules, perform the same steps.

Solution 7: Edit the CPS Folder Name

A corrupted CPS folder often gives rise to the QuickBooks Error PS0777. Changing the name of the folder assists in resolving update-related errors.

Here are the steps to modify the CPS folder name:

1. Open the File Explorer by pressing the keys “Windows + E”.
2. Click the option “My PC” or “This PC”.
3. Open Local Disk (C:).
4. Go to the “Program Files” folder.
5. Find and open the QuickBooks Desktop folder.
6. Go to the Payroll folder.
7. Hit right-click on the CPS folder. Now choose the “Rename” option.
8. Change the name of the folder to CPSOLD. 
9. Now click the “Enter” button.
10. Make a new CPS folder in the same directory.
11. Start the QuickBooks Desktop.

Solution 8: Disable UAC Settings from the Control Panel

Often, QuickBooks is restricted from installing the payroll updates due to User Account Control. Deactivate UAC to enable complete access. 

Here are the steps:

1. Click the “Windows + R” keys to start the Run dialog box.
2. Enter “Control Panel” and press the “OK” button.
3. Choose the “User Accounts” option. Now press the “User Accounts (Classic View)” option.
4. Press the option “Change User Account Control Settings”.
5. Press the “Yes” button when notified by UAC.
6. Shift the slider to the “Never Notify” option.
7. Now press the “OK” button.
8. Reboot the system.
9. Open QuickBooks and install the payroll update once more.

Solution 9: Rename QBWUSER.ini and EntitlementDataStore.ecml Files

Changing the name of the configuration files may fix the error PS077. Here are the steps to change the name of the needed files:

1. On your system, find the QBWUSER.ini file.
2. Hit right-click the file and choose the “Rename” option.
3. Rename the file by adding .old at the end.
4. Perform the same steps for the particular EntitlementDataStore.ecml file.
5. Start QuickBooks Desktop.
6. Head back to the company file.
7. Take a backup and store it in a local folder.
8. From the specific location, open the backup file.
9. Confirm if the file opens without error messages.

Conclusion

In this guide, different solutions to resolve the QuickBooks error PS-77 have been shared. It is crucial to follow the steps in the given order to resolve this issue with ease. 

If you still face issues or have questions, contact our QuickBooks expert team at smbaccountants.com for advanced support.

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