QuickBooks is a reliable accounting software used by many businesses. However, it is not immune to errors. One common issue that users may encounter is QuickBooks Error 15271. This error usually appears during payroll updates or software updates. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to understand what causes it and how to fix it. This article will guide you through the details of QuickBooks Error 15271 and provide steps to resolve it.
What is QuickBooks Error 15271?
QuickBooks Error 15271 occurs when you are trying to update QuickBooks or download a payroll update. The error message usually reads something like: “Error 15271: The payroll update did not complete successfully. A file cannot be validated.” This message indicates that QuickBooks is having trouble validating a file that is necessary for the update process.
This error can prevent you from using QuickBooks or completing important tasks like processing payroll.
Causes of QuickBooks Error 15271
There are several reasons why QuickBooks Error 15271 might occur. Understanding these causes can help you pinpoint the issue and find the right solution.
- Incomplete QuickBooks Update: If a previous update was interrupted or not completed, it might cause Error 15271.
- User Account Control (UAC): The User Account Control (UAC) settings on your computer might be preventing QuickBooks from making changes to files, leading to the error.
- Corrupted QuickBooks Installation: If your QuickBooks installation is corrupted or damaged, it can cause this error during updates.
- Firewall or Security Software: Sometimes, firewall or security software can block QuickBooks from connecting to the internet, causing the error.
- Issues with Internet Explorer: QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer for some functions. If Internet Explorer is not configured correctly, it might cause this error.
Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 15271
Recognizing the symptoms of QuickBooks Error 15271 can help you identify the problem quickly. Here are some common signs:
- QuickBooks freezes or crashes when trying to update.
- The error message “Error 15271: The payroll update did not complete successfully” appears on your screen.
- You cannot complete payroll or software updates.
- Your computer becomes slow or unresponsive when using QuickBooks.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error 15271
Now that you know the causes and symptoms of QuickBooks Error 15271, let’s look at how to fix it. Follow these steps carefully to resolve the issue.
1. Turn Off User Account Control (UAC)
Turning off UAC can help resolve the issue by allowing QuickBooks to make necessary changes to files.
- Press the “Windows” key and type “User Account Control.”
- Select “Change User Account Control settings.”
- Move the slider to “Never Notify” and click “OK.”
- Restart your computer and try updating QuickBooks again.
2. Update QuickBooks to the Latest Version
Ensuring that your QuickBooks software is up to date can fix many issues, including Error 15271.
- Open QuickBooks and go to the “Help” menu.
- Select “Update QuickBooks Desktop.”
- Click on “Update Now” and follow the instructions to install any available updates.
- Once the update is complete, restart QuickBooks and try updating again.
3. Run QuickBooks as an Administrator
Running QuickBooks with administrative privileges can help it bypass restrictions that might be causing the error.
- Right-click on the QuickBooks icon on your desktop.
- Select “Run as Administrator.”
- Try updating QuickBooks or downloading the payroll update again.
4. Check Your Internet Explorer Settings
Since QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer for some functions, ensuring it’s configured correctly can help resolve the error.
- Open Internet Explorer.
- Go to the “Tools” menu and select “Internet Options.”
- Click on the “Advanced” tab and scroll down to the “Security” section.
- Make sure that the options “Use TLS 1.2” and “Use SSL 3.0” are checked.
- Click “Apply” and then “OK.”
- Close Internet Explorer and try updating QuickBooks again.
5. Temporarily Disable Firewall and Antivirus Software
Sometimes, firewall or antivirus software can block QuickBooks from connecting to the internet. Temporarily disabling them can help.
- Open your firewall or antivirus software.
- Look for an option to temporarily disable it.
- Once disabled, try updating QuickBooks or downloading the payroll update again.
- If the update is successful, add QuickBooks as an exception in your firewall and antivirus settings.
6. Repair QuickBooks Installation
If your QuickBooks installation is corrupted, repairing it can help fix the error.
- Press the “Windows” key and type “Control Panel.”
- Select “Programs and Features.”
- Find QuickBooks in the list of installed programs and select it.
- Click on “Uninstall/Change” and choose “Repair.”
- Follow the instructions to repair your QuickBooks installation.
- Once the repair is complete, restart your computer and try updating QuickBooks again.
Preventing QuickBooks Error 15271
Preventing QuickBooks Error 15271 is better than fixing it. Here are some tips to help you avoid this error in the future:
- Regularly update your QuickBooks software to the latest version.
- Ensure that your User Account Control (UAC) settings are configured to allow necessary changes.
- Add QuickBooks as an exception in your firewall and antivirus software.
- Regularly check and update your Internet Explorer settings.
- Back up your company files regularly to avoid data loss in case of errors.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error 15271 can be a significant roadblock, especially when you need to update your software or process payroll. However, by following the steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the error and get back to managing your finances smoothly. Always keep your QuickBooks software and system settings in good condition to prevent such errors in the future. If the problem persists, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support for professional assistance.
