QuickBooks is a powerful accounting software used by businesses to manage their finances. However, like any software, it can sometimes run into errors. One such error is QuickBooks Error 185. This error usually occurs when you try to connect your QuickBooks to your bank and the bank requires additional security measures.
In this blog, we will explain what QuickBooks Error 185 is, why it happens, and how you can fix it with simple steps.
What is QuickBooks Error 185?
QuickBooks Error 185 happens when your bank needs extra information or verification before allowing QuickBooks to access your financial data. It is part of the bank’s security process. Most of the time, the bank sends a request for additional authentication, such as answering security questions or providing a one-time password (OTP).
When this happens, QuickBooks cannot complete the connection until you respond to the bank’s request.
Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 185
Understanding why this error occurs is important for resolving it. Here are some common causes:
- Bank Security Measures: Many banks require multiple authentication steps to protect their users’ accounts. This could include questions or a code sent to your phone.
- Outdated Bank Information: If you have not updated your bank account information in QuickBooks, the error may occur.
- Bank Server Issues: Sometimes, the error occurs because of temporary server issues at your bank’s end.
- Third-party Applications: Certain third-party apps or software connected to your bank or QuickBooks could also trigger this error.
How to Identify QuickBooks Error 185
QuickBooks will show you an error message with the number 185 when trying to connect with your bank. The message may include a note asking for extra verification, like answering a security question or confirming your identity.
Now that you understand what the error is, let’s look at how to fix it.
Steps to Fix QuickBooks Error 185
There are several ways you can resolve this issue. Here’s how to fix QuickBooks Error 185 with simple, easy-to-follow steps:
Step 1: Verify Your Identity
Since Error 185 usually involves additional security checks from your bank, the first step is to complete the verification process. QuickBooks will prompt you to enter the required information. This could be answering a security question or entering a one-time password (OTP) sent to your phone.
How to do it:
- Open QuickBooks and try connecting to your bank.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to answer security questions or enter the OTP.
- Once done, QuickBooks will try reconnecting to your bank account.
This step should fix the problem for most users.
Step 2: Update Your Bank Information in QuickBooks
Sometimes, outdated information in your QuickBooks account could trigger Error 185. You should make sure that your bank details in QuickBooks are up-to-date.
How to update bank information:
- Open QuickBooks and go to Banking.
- Choose the bank account where you see Error 185.
- Click on Edit and check if your bank information is correct.
- If needed, update your bank login credentials.
- Save the changes.
After this, try reconnecting to your bank.
Step 3: Temporarily Disable Third-Party Apps
Some third-party apps connected to QuickBooks or your bank may cause issues. These apps can interrupt the communication between QuickBooks and your bank, causing Error 185.
How to disable third-party apps:
- Open the app settings on your device.
- Look for any third-party apps connected to your bank account or QuickBooks.
- Temporarily disable or disconnect these apps.
- Try reconnecting your bank account to QuickBooks.
After resolving the error, you can reconnect the third-party apps.
Step 4: Check Bank Server Issues
In some cases, the problem may not be with QuickBooks but with your bank’s server. Bank servers might be down for maintenance or experiencing technical issues.
How to check:
- Visit your bank’s website and see if you can log in without any problems.
- If the bank’s website is down, wait for some time and try again later.
- You can also contact your bank’s customer service to confirm any server issues.
Once the bank server is back online, try reconnecting your QuickBooks account.
Step 5: Reconnect Your Bank Account
If none of the previous steps work, you can try reconnecting your bank account from scratch. This will refresh the connection between QuickBooks and your bank.
How to reconnect your bank account:
- Open QuickBooks and go to Banking.
- Select the bank account where you see Error 185.
- Click on the Disconnect button.
- Once disconnected, click on Add Account to reconnect your bank account.
- Enter your bank login credentials and follow the prompts.
This should resolve QuickBooks Error 185.
Preventing QuickBooks Error 185 in the Future
To avoid seeing this error again, you can take the following steps:
- Enable Notifications: Make sure your bank notifications are turned on so that you are always aware of any additional security checks.
- Keep Your Information Updated: Regularly update your bank account information in QuickBooks to ensure smooth connectivity.
- Use a Secure Connection: Always use a secure and stable internet connection when accessing your bank through QuickBooks.
- Limit Third-Party Apps: Be cautious with third-party apps that connect to your bank or QuickBooks. Make sure they are trustworthy and necessary.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error 185 is related to additional security measures required by your bank. The error is easy to fix by verifying your identity, updating your bank information, or checking for bank server issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to fix the error and reconnect your bank to QuickBooks.
If you continue to face issues, it is always a good idea to reach out to QuickBooks support or your bank for further assistance.
With these simple steps, you can keep your QuickBooks running smoothly and avoid interruptions in your financial tasks.
