How to Fix QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error in Desktop?

There is a wide range of QuickBooks Unrecoverable errors that happen due to any critical fault, like a program stopping unexpectedly or specific system issues. It is caused due to the corrupted components of QuickBooks, company file issues, network problems, data integrity issues with company files, and more. Fix it by suppressing QuickBooks Desktop, creating a new Windows admin user, or running the Quick Fix My program.

Error: QuickBooks Unrecoverable Errors

Conditions Under Which QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error Generally Occur

The following are the conditions that lead to an unrecoverable error:

• When accessing a QuickBooks Desktop file on a workstation, an unrecoverable error occurs.
• When printing, emailing, or saving as a PDF from QuickBooks Desktop.
• While attempting to save a transaction or a record.
• Unrecoverable errors may arise while chaining targets or executing the Rebuild tool.
• While using QuickBooks Online Bill Pay to write checks or while importing accountant’s adjustments.
• If your company file has been damaged.
• When establishing a business file or making a backup.
• When attempting to close any open windows in a corporate file.
• Whenever you launch any QuickBooks window (Home Page, Company Snapshot, Reports, Transaction).
• When completing a bank reconciliation or viewing past reconciliation reports.

What are the Causes of QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error in QuickBooks?

The following are the causes of QuickBooks Unrecoverable errors on your computer:

• When a QuickBooks component is destroyed or corrupted, the error occurs.
• Your computer could be having problems.
• Power outages can also be a good reason since they harm the files that are being worked on.
• It can happen if there is a network hiccup when a user is logged into the QB Company file.
• A network fault can also result in an unrecoverable error.
• If any Windows or QuickBooks updates are missing.
• This problem can also be caused by issues with data integrity in the QB Company file.
• Your data has been corrupted or your application code requires repair.

Signs and Symptoms of QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error

A user must recognize all of the symptoms of the QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable problem. This will allow them to spot problems early and arrive with a reasonable solution before more productivity loss occurs. So, here are some of the symptoms you could experience.

• The application freezes, making further work difficult.
• Even with manual upgrades, performing software updates becomes difficult.
• QuickBooks Desktop crashes as soon as you launch it. Such accidents are common.
• The user cannot find the stored transactions in the QuickBooks business file.
• Updates continue to be processed but never advance to the final stage.

Important Pointers Must be Taken into Consideration 

Before preceding the troubleshooting, make sure 

Step 1: Update your QuickBooks Desktop to the Latest Release

QuickBooks Desktop can be updated automatically or manually. When you enable Automatic Updates, QuickBooks automatically downloads and installs the most recent updates as soon as they become available. Check for updates at least once a month if you opt to do them yourself.

If there is any new update available, you can perform the steps below to update to the latest update release:

• The very first, download the latest updates
• Close the company files as well as QuickBooks 
• Next, press the Windows Start menu to open it 
• Look for the QuickBooks Desktop and then right-click on the icon 
• Select the “Run as an Administrator” option 
• Move to the “No Company Open” screen and select the Help menu 
• After that, select the “Update QuickBooks Desktop” option 
• Now, go to the tab called “Update Now” 
• Then select the checkbox “Reset Update” 
• Once everything is set then select the “Get Updates” option.

Once the updates are successfully done then open your QuickBooks Desktop once again. Select the “Yes” button to install the updates. After the installation process, restart your PC once again. 

Step 2: Create a Backup of Your Company File 

• Go to the File menu and then select the option “Switch to Single-user Mode” 
• Next, move to the File menu once again and hover over the “Back up Company” 
• After that, select the option “Create Local Backup” 
• In the next window, select the “Local Backup” >> “Next” 
• Go to the “Local Backup Only” section and select the Browse 
• After that, select the location where you want to save your backup company file 
• Set the number of backups that you want to keep (Optional)
• This runs a test to make sure that your backup file is in good shape before you save it 
• Once everything is set then select the “Ok” button 
• Select the option “Save it Now” and then the “Next” button. QuickBooks saves a single company file as a backup. You’ll receive a confirmation message once it’s completed.
• Every time when you get an unrecoverable error, select the “Send” option. The data gathered will aid Intuit in developing patch updates to improve the application.

How to Fix QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error in Desktop

Here are a few of the solutions available to get rid of the error:

Solution 1: Repair QuickBooks Components and Fix Company File Issues

Below are the steps outlined to repair damaged QuickBooks components using the QuickBooks Component Repair tool:

Use the QuickBooks Component Repair Tool

• Download the QuickBooks Component Repair Tool from the official website and use it to repair damaged components.

Use Quick Fix My Program:

• First, Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
• Then, go to the tab labeled program problem and hit the button that says quick fix my program.
• Finally, permit the tool to diagnose and fix the company file.

Verify Network Connection:

• Check that your Internet connection is strong so that it doesn’t interfere with the program, causing it to freeze while you’re signing in to the company file.

Solution 2: Open QuickBooks with All Windows Closed

To open your QuickBooks company file without reopening previously opened windows, follow these steps:

• Open QuickBooks Desktop: Launch the application without opening any company file.
• Select Your Company File: In the “No Company Open” window, choose your company file.
• Open Without Restoring Windows: Press and hold the `ALT` key on your keyboard, then click on “Open.” Continue holding the `ALT` key until the file opens. If prompted to sign in, release the `ALT` key, enter your password, and press and hold `ALT` again before selecting “OK.

Solution 2: Logging in with a Different QuickBooks User

To access your QuickBooks company file using a different user account, follow these steps:

Create a New User Account:

• Open QuickBooks Desktop.
• Navigate to the Company menu, select Set Up Users and Passwords, then choose Set Up Users.
• Click on Add User…, enter the new username and password, and click Next.
• Assign the appropriate role to the new user and click Finish.

Log In with the New User Account:

• Go to the File menu and select Close Company/Logoff.
• Sign in using the newly created user credentials.

Solution 3: Create a New Windows Administrator

Windows 7 and 8

• To open the Run window, press the Windows + R from your keyboard.
• Select OK after typing Control Panel within the Search box.
• Choose User Accounts and then Manage a different account.
• Select Create a new account, then type in the new account’s name.
• Create an account after selecting Administrator.

Windows 8.1

• Press the Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run window
• Select the OK button after typing Control Panel within the Search bo
• Choose User Accounts >>> Manage another account >>> Other accounts >>> Add an account from the drop-down menu.
• Select a Local account and then Sign in without a Microsoft account (not advised).
• Select Next after entering the username, password, and password hint.
• The Manage Other Accounts screen will appear again.
• Edit the newly created account after selecting it.
• The new user’s role is set to standard by default.
• Select Administrator from the drop-down menu and then click on the OK button.

Windows 10

• Select Settings >>> Accounts >>> Family & other users from the Start menu
• Select Add someone else to this PC under Other Users
• Add a user without a Microsoft account after selecting “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information”
• Select the “Finish” tab once you’re done entering the new account details

Suggestion: To ensure security, give the new account a password.

• Choose Account Type after selecting the newly created account
• Select the Administrator tab and then click the OK button.

Windows Servers 2012

Servers are frequently maintained by computer technicians who are licensed. Before proceeding with the instructions in this section, consult with your IT specialist.

• Open the Server Manager program.
• Select Tools >>> Computer Management from the drop-down menu
• Select Groups after expanding “Local Users and Groups”
• To access the Administrator Properties box double-click on the Administrator Groups Next, select the “Add” option
• Enter the account you wish to add to the local admin groups in the Select Users, Computers, Service Accounts, or Groups window
• Finally, choose the OK tab.

Windows Small Business Server 2011 and 2008/R2

• Use the Windows SBS (2011/2008) console to launch it
• Go to the Users tab after selecting Users and Groups
• Select Add a New User Account from the Tasks pane to launch the Add a New User Account wizard
• Fill in the blanks and then choose a role for the new user
• For the new user, create a password
• You will not be able to proceed without first entering a password
• The password must be complicated enough to meet the requirements
• Choose the option “Add a User”
• Select the “Finish” tab when you’ve completed the rest of the instructions.

Solution 4: Open the sample Company file

Opening a sample company file can assist you figure out whether the issue is with your company file or with QuickBooks.

• If the sample file opens, your company file or the folder where it’s saved may be damaged. Copy the file to a different location and see if it helps.
• If the error persists, restore your file using a recent backup or ADR. If your backup or ADR isn’t enough to get you back on track, try some simple data damage troubleshooting.
• Proceed to the next solution if the sample file produces the same error message.

Open the Sample file

• Select “Open a sample file” from the No Company Open window.
• Choose an example file from the list.

Solution 5: Copy the Company File to a Different Location

Copying and opening the company file from a different location can reveal whether the folder where it is saved is corrupted or “too deep,” exceeding the file system path limit. If you get the same issue after relocating the company file to a different location, your QuickBooks installation or the company file is most likely corrupted.

• Select the New >>> Folder from the right-click anywhere on your Desktop screen.
• QBTEST is the name of the folder.
• Open the folder containing the company file.
• Copy the file by right-clicking it.
• Copy the company file and paste it into the QBTEST folder you made.
• From the QBTEST folder, open the company files.

Solution 6: Run Quick Fix My Program from the QuickBooks Tool Hub

Step 1: Download and Install the QuickBooks Tool Hub

• First, close your QuickBooks Desktop software.
• Next, you have to download the most recent version (1.6.0.8) of QuickBooks Tool Hub.
• Save the file somewhere you can easily find the same

Note: If you can figure out which version of Tool Hub you have if you’ve installed it before. The Home tab will appear. The latest version will be found at the bottom of the page.

• Now, open the QuickBooksToolHub.exe file that you have downloaded.
• Perform the instructions that appear on your screen and also agree to the terms and conditions.
• After the installation completes then double-click on the Windows desktop to open the Tool Hub.

Step 2: Run Quick Fix My Program from the QuickBooks Tools Hub

QuickBooks will shut down any lingering background processes as a result of the Quick Fix. Your program will undergo a brief repair.

• Select Program Problems from the QuickBooks Tools Hub.
• Select the “Quick Fix My Program” from the drop-down menu.

List of Other QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Errors

These are some of the most common causes of Unrecoverable Errors, as well as the codes that may be associated with them. The error number you receive may differ from what is displayed due to the random nature of the errors.

The list is not exhaustive, and you may encounter an error that differs from the ones listed:

QuickBooks Error Code 02457 79428	QuickBooks Error Code 00000 15204
QuickBooks Error Code 15563 13890	QuickBooks Error Code 20103 33023
QuickBooks Error Code 13824 75582	QuickBooks Error Code 19758 63847
QuickBooks Error Code 20888 41171	QuickBooks Error Code 00551 46274
QuickBooks Error Code 00000 14775	QuickBooks Error Code 00227 55008
QuickBooks Error Code 13730 84631

List of scenarios when QuickBooks Unrecoverable errors can be encountered, including displaying different numeric QB Unrecoverable error codes:

The error codes or numbers may change from the actual ones due to the random nature of the faults. The list below is not exhaustive; you may encounter other errors as well, which will vary depending on the situation.

1. QuickBooks unrecoverable error when opening the company file

What is it & How it can be fixed

When a user tries to open a QuickBooks file and the software is unable to do so, an error notice appears that states, “QuickBooks has encountered a problem and needs to close”. There is more than one reason for being responsible, like data damage and data integrity with your company’s files. Try fixing it by copying your company file to your desktop.

You may like this: Fix QuickBooks unrecoverable error when opening the company file

2. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error when sending email

What is it & How it can be fixed

When there is a problem connecting to your currently selected printer, Microsoft XPS Document writer on XPS port, QuickBooks unrecoverable error when sending email message appears. If you are unable to print, email, or save as a PDF from QuickBooks Desktop, you can use the QuickBooks Print & Print Repair Tool to resolve the issue.

3. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error when printing checks

What is it & How it can be fixed

Users are unable to print checks and it displays an error message that says QuickBooks can’t complete the current action due to a missing component. It occurs because of a missing pdf file component. Run the QuickBooks Print & Print Repair Tool from the QuickBooks Tool Hub or verify that you can print to your XPS (only for Save as PDF and Email issues).

4. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error when logging in

What is it & How it can be fixed

The error occurs if a network blip while a user is logged in to the QB Company file. You can fix it in various ways including suppressing the QuickBooks desktop, using the QuickBooks component repair tool, using QuickBooks Auto Data recovery, downloading QuickBooks Tools Hub, running Quick Fix my Program, or trying to run the Reboot.bat file.

5. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error 19062 00238

What is it & How it can be fixed?

The error usually occurs in QB Premier Accountant Editions 2019. A conflict between QuickBooks 2020 and 2021 may have generated the error you received.  Make sure you have the most recent version of QuickBooks installed. This ensures that the program displays the most up-to-date foreign exchange rate and that any necessary patches are downloaded to correct any unexpected behavior.

6. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error when importing accountant’s changes

What is it & How it can be fixed?

You’ll get this unrecoverable error message when importing an accountant’s changes into a client’s company file. It usually displays a report of the changes that couldn’t be imported. Unrecoverable errors are caused by various reasons, but the most common reasons are missing Windows or QuickBooks updates, data damage, etc. You can fix it by verifying data and re-creating change files.

7. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error on startup

What is it & How it can be fixed?

When you open your QuickBooks application or operate in QuickBooks Desktop, it may occasionally crash and throw unrecoverable errors. The reason behind this error is Power outages or you might have left many windows open when you last closed the file. Stopping the application from opening all windows at startup is one of the most tried-and-true methods of preventing this problem.

8. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error creating the invoice

What is it & How it can be fixed?

QuickBooks Unrecoverable error is an annoying and typical issue faced by users. The main cause of the QuickBooks unrecoverable problem is because you have too many windows/applications open when you start QuickBooks. You can remedy the error by blocking QB from launching “All windows at startup” or by trying to access the sample file, and many others.

9. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error when closing

What is it & How it can be fixed?

It is one amongst one of the common errors that users come across while attempting to open or save the company file. It mainly displays as you might have left many windows open when you last closed the file. Easily rectify the error by identifying how many users are affected or simply running the QuickBooks fix my program.

10. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error 14433

What is it & How it can be fixed?

A wide array of system issues can promote QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error 14433 and outdated version or data damage are the major problems. That’s why it is suggested to you to make sure that your software and windows must be updated with the latest released version.

11. QuickBooks unrecoverable error 19722 63784

What is it & How it can be fixed?

It also belongs to one of the “5 digits space 5-digits” sequence QuickBooks Unrecoverable error. The error message indicates that the accounting software has experienced a critical application fault. It can occur in numerous situations but is not limited to: trying to open a company file, creating a company file, printing checks, closing company files, and a lot more.

12. QuickBooks unrecoverable error 20888

What is it & How it can be fixed?

The error strikes when you’re trying to update your payroll form. Pressing the ALT key while right-clicking on the QuickBooks application icon is the most popular technique to fix the problem. Further, you have to proceed with the given prompt instructions to successfully accomplish the troubleshooting to get rid of such QuickBooks Payroll unrecoverable error code.

13. QuickBooks unrecoverable error when exporting to excel

What is it & How it can be fixed

The error can take place anytime when you’re conducting an export to excel or some other within your QB account. Though QuickBooks Unrecoverable error is self-explanatory the error crops up can be multiple. Ensuring that QB should not open in all Windows at once at startup is the primary way to avoid such issues.

14. QuickBooks unrecoverable error when downloading credit card

What is it & How it can be fixed

Users experience an Unrecoverable error when they’re trying to download regular bank transactions in QuickBooks. Sometimes, it also happens when they use the banking menu to process payments. There are ways suggested by experts for the users with older versions must update their application to match the new programmed codes and also clear the cache within the Internet Explorer that connects to the QBDT account.

15. QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error when registering

What is it & How it can be fixed?

A user receives an error message stating that “QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error (error code) Microsoft .Net Framework is corrupted and needs to be repaired” or “Unrecoverable error: QBGDS plug-in has encountered a problem and needs to close”. It is usually experienced by users when they are attempting to register or activate their QuickBooks application.

16. Getting an Unrecoverable Error when creating a company in QuickBooks

What is it & How it can be fixed

While creating a company file in QuickBooks Desktop, you may encounter an unrecoverable issue. It is actually caused by a variety of factors including updates for QuickBooks or Windows that aren’t installed, resultant data loss, issues with your computer, etc. However, you can fix it by resolving data damage in QuickBooks Desktop.

17. QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error when attaching the file

What is it & How it can be fixed?

It is a common error that you may notice while working on your QuickBooks application. As a result, you are unable to save any transactions or unable to update the software when the error message appears. Incomplete QuickBooks installation,  improper Windows update, damaged data files. QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery can assist you to restore QuickBooks backup files.

18. QuickBooks Unrecoverable error downloading bank transactions

What is it & How it can be fixed

Users come up with a QuickBooks Unrecoverable error while downloading bank transactions. It happens because of missing QuickBooks updates, data damage, or QB needs repairing. You’re suggested to update your application to reflect the updated programmed codes. It is also recommended to clean the cache in Internet Explorer, which links to your QB account for your bank connection.

19. QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error merchant services error code 19843 49519

What is it & How it can be fixed?

You can find an unrecoverable error when loading Record Merchant Service Deposits in QuickBooks 2017 and later versions. It can be caused due to a merchant logged in without full admin rights, data corruption, or damaged QuickBooks. You can fix the error by assigning full admin rights to your merchant login or performing a QuickBooks clean install.

20. QuickBooks Payroll Form Unrecoverable Error 19718-32143

What is it & How it can be fixed?

As you know QuickBooks Unrecoverable varies on there and this error occurs when the user deleted the company file or when trying to update the QB Payroll but is unable to finish it. So, make sure that QuickBooks should not be opened when Windows starts in order to fix the error.

21. QuickBooks unrecoverable error create a journal entry

What is it & How it can be fixed?

It is usual to get an unrecoverable error while creating a journal entry in a QB company file. If you receive a QuickBooks Unrecoverable error. “XXXXX” says that the program might face condemnatory application faults. Apply the basic troubleshooting or use a common tool called run reboot.bat, try suppressing your company file, and open a sample company file.

22. QuickBooks Update Unrecoverable Error after crash

What is it & How it can be fixed?

Crashing down of the software is a common symptom of QuickBooks Unrecoverable error. It usually happens when users are trying to open the company file after updating but are unable because of corrupt or damaged data and lots more can also be factors responsible for the same. However, making use of the QB component repair tool might help you in fixing the error.

23. QuickBooks unrecoverable error 0000 0000 0000

What is it & How it can be fixed

It is an error that can be encountered while setting up payroll error code in the format 0000 0000 0000. Depending on the user’s payroll activity, this error may change. The message “Error: QuickBooks Payroll Setup-Error code: 0000 0000 0000. You could also run into faults that are unrecoverable. The range of errors could be anything between 00000 00001 and 0000 99999.

24. QuickBooks unrecoverable error switching to multi

What is it & How it can be fixed

This error can be caused due to a variety of factors, such as network issues and damaged files. It usually occurs when trying to switch into multi-user mode. In order to resolve QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error swiftly, make sure you have a dedicated server or machine for storage of your company file, also hosting is turned on in your server or main computer.

25. QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error when entering a password

What is it & How it can be fixed

An unrecoverable error is known as the most common error that usually appears when you try to open the company file or perform some other tasks. This error message usually strikes when typing a user ID or password. There is a handful of solutions to easily rectify the error is the Suppression of your QuickBooks Desktop.

26. QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error when backing up

What is it & How it can be fixed

Many times, users had to deal with QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error while backing up the data file. You can try to resolve it by restoring your backup using the Auto Data Recovery (ADR) tool. However, the QuickBooks Unrecoverable error can also be resolved by running the QB Diagnostic Tool, performing a Clean Install, and more.

27. QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error when attaching a file

What is it & How it can be fixed?

QuickBooks Unrecoverable error encountered when trying to attach a file, as a result, your system might crash. It can be caused due to large size of data files, incomplete installation, damaged data files, and more. To resolve the issue, go for a clean reinstall; make use of the QuickBooks Component Repair Tool to repair all your damaged files and components.

28. QuickBooks desktop unrecoverable error when invoicing

What is it & How it can be fixed

Users also experience Unrecoverable errors while creating or sending invoices. But they are unable due to network problems, a lack of Windows or QuickBooks updates, or data integrity issues. You’re suggested to always up-to-date your application with the latest Maintenance release and you can use some of Intuit’s provided tools including QuickBooks Clean Install, Diagnostic tool, File Doctor, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions