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Home » [Best Tutorial] to Fix QuickBooks File Exists Error

[Best Tutorial] to Fix QuickBooks File Exists Error

QuickBooks error the file exists is an annoying technical nuisance that can cause a temporary disruption until resolved. The small and mid-sized business owners highly rely upon this software to run their business accounting efficiently. It also enables users to peek into their business insights accurately and make well-informed decisions to optimize the process. On the other hand, you might face multi-pronged technical challenges while using the software such as QuickBooks file exists error.

Facing “the file exists” error in QuickBooks and looking for reliable assistance? Dial our QuickBooks error support number (801)-882-2349 and get rid of the infamous error in no time

Window Error Message “The File Exists” – Description:

“The file exists” or QuickBooks payroll update error “The file exists” is an unsettling error that may arise in the following instances-

  • When you are trying to download an update for Payroll service.
  • The file error may also occur while launching the state of federal forms.
  • The error message can flash on the screen when you try to print from QuickBooks.
  • When you make payment for your scheduled liabilities and error occurs abruptly.

Consequently, you will see an error message on the screen which says-

“The specific file that you have requested cannot open. Confirm, if it is not used by some other program or a read-only file.”

Reasons for Getting “(Windows) the File Exists” Error in QuickBooks:

To fix the QuickBooks file exists error, you have to know the possible causes that can evoke the error. Your inactive internet connection or dropped Internet packets can give rise to the “a file being read incorrectly” error. Make sure that you have updated your QuickBooks to the latest available version to avoid the error. When a user doesn’t have the required administrative rights on windows, then it is susceptible to the error. Erroneous QuickBooks installation or inexact Internet security settings are also the possible reasons behind the QuickBooks error the file exists.

How To Fix The QuickBooks Error File Exists Warning Message?

To resolve the “QuickBooks error file already open” follow the below-explained solutions with the utmost care-

Solution 1- Verify Internet Connectivity

Check if your Internet connection is working properly, and there are not dropped Internet packets:

  • Open your default browser and try to open a secure domain such as QuickBooks.com.
  • It the Internet is working then confirm your Internet security settings are not obstructing QuickBooks from connecting with the server.
  • Check if there are no dropped Internet packets by verifying the latency of the network.
  • Make sure that the SSL settings are not fallible.
  • While performing this all, Internet Explorer should be your default browser.

Solution 2- Update QuickBooks Desktop

Update your QuickBooks to the latest maintenance release to overcome an existing error that might be the possible cause of the file exists error in QuickBooks:

  • Launch QuickBooks Desktop applications and click on Product Information tab located under the Help tab.
  • Now, a drop-down will open in which you have to make appropriate selections based on your update needs.
  • Click on Search and hit on Get the Latest Update QuickBooks Desktop option.
  • Next, save the file to an easily accessible location and then hit the installation file twice to initiate the process of update.
  • Wait for it to finish and Restart your computer.
  • Check if the QuickBooks error “the file exists” still exist?

Solution 3. Run QuickBooks as an  Administrator

QuickBooks requires admin rights to perform certain tasks like installing the update. Follow the steps given below to log in to QuickBooks as an admin:

  • Click on the Windows Start menu.
  • Within the search type “QuickBooks.”
  • You will find QuickBooks in the search results.
  • Next, right-click on the QuickBooks version and select the Run as administrator option.

If you still see the file exists error, proceed to the next solution.

Solution 4- Turn-off User Account Control

Turn off User Account Control from Windows settings and recheck the error:

  • Click on Windows Start button and type Control Panel in the given box.
  • Now select Control Panel and then click the User Account Control (UAC) button
  • Here, you can change UAC settings by moving the slider to Never Notify located against the Turn off UAC.
  • Click OK to confirm your selection and proceed to check the QuickBooks error the file exists once again.

Solution 5- Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop

Reinstall QuickBooks program using clean install tool and check if it can fix the QuickBooks file exists error.

  • Press Windows + R keys at the same time to open the Run box.
  • Now, provide the box with the text appwiz.cpl.
  • Click QuickBooks twice and then make your selection to Uninstall.
  • Follow the on-screen prompts carefully to vanish QuickBooks from windows completely.
  • Download Clean Install Tool from the authorized website and save it on your system.
  • Now use it to install the QuickBooks software.

Solution 6. Reset Windows Permissions

The file exists error may also occur when the user is given limited control of the QuickBooks program file on Windows. Giving full control of the file can resolve the issue:

  • Open Windows File Explorer.
  • Search QuickBooks program file (QBW32.exe).
  • Next, by right-clicking the program file, select Properties.
  • Click Security and then Edit.
  • Further, click on Add.
  • In the Add window, write ‘Everyone’ and click OK.
  • Within the Security window, mark the Full Control checkbox and select OK.
  • Again, click Add and type ‘Users’ in the window, then click OK.
  • Once again, in the Security Window, select the Full Control checkbox and click OK.
  • After finishing, click Apply and then OK.

Wait for the QuickBooks installation to finish and then Restart your system. Practicing the troubleshooting procedures for the error can fix the windows error “the file exists QuickBooks 2018” technical glitch. However, if not, you can reach out an expert and get step-by-step guidance in resolving QuickBooks file exists error. Do you know one? Dial our QuickBooks error support helpline number (801)-882-2349 to reach an expert for QuickBooks error file exists resolution.

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ProAccountingHub provides practical guidance on using QuickBooks to manage finances efficiently. Whether it's tracking expenses or preparing for taxes, their tips help individuals and businesses stay organized and make smarter financial decisions. Focused on the latest QuickBooks features, ProAccountingHub simplifies financial management to help users reach their goals.

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