QuickBooks is a reliable accounting tool used by many businesses to manage their finances efficiently. However, like any software, it can encounter issues, and one of them is QuickBooks Error 187. This error typically occurs when there is a problem related to bank transactions, especially when you try to connect to your bank or download bank feeds.
In this article, we will explore what QuickBooks Error 187 is, why it happens, and how you can resolve it using simple steps.
What Is QuickBooks Error 187?
QuickBooks Error 187 appears when QuickBooks is unable to verify your bank account credentials or experiences trouble downloading bank transactions. The error is linked to online banking and occurs during the verification process, leading to an interruption in updating your bank information or downloading transactions.
The error message usually states: “Error 187: Your bank requires a one-time password (OTP) or other verification.”
Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 187
Several factors can lead to QuickBooks Error 187. Some of the most common causes include:
- Incorrect banking credentials: The bank login details you entered in QuickBooks might be incorrect or outdated.
- Two-factor authentication (2FA): Your bank may require additional verification such as a one-time password (OTP) or security questions, which QuickBooks fails to handle.
- Bank server issues: Sometimes, the issue might not be with QuickBooks but with your bank’s server.
- Outdated QuickBooks version: Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can lead to compatibility issues with the bank.
- Poor internet connection: An unstable or weak internet connection can prevent QuickBooks from connecting to your bank’s server.
Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 187
If you’re experiencing QuickBooks Error 187, you may notice the following signs:
- You’re unable to download bank transactions.
- The error message 187 appears on your screen during online banking activities.
- QuickBooks may freeze or become slow when attempting to connect to your bank.
- Repeated prompts for verification codes or credentials.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error 187
Now that you know the causes of QuickBooks Error 187, let’s look at some effective ways to fix it.
Method 1: Verify Your Bank Login Credentials
The first thing you should do when you encounter Error 187 is to check your bank login credentials.
- Login to your bank account: Go to your bank’s website and try to log in using the same credentials you’ve entered in QuickBooks.
- Update credentials in QuickBooks: If you’ve recently changed your password or other login details, make sure to update them in QuickBooks as well.
- Go to the ‘Banking’ tab.
- Select ‘Edit’ next to the account that’s causing the error.
- Enter the correct credentials and save the changes.
- Try reconnecting: Once you’ve updated your login information, try reconnecting to your bank.
Method 2: Respond to Additional Bank Security Measures
Banks sometimes use two-factor authentication (2FA) or security questions to ensure that your account is secure. QuickBooks may need you to provide additional information to complete the bank connection.
- Check for one-time passwords (OTPs): If your bank sends a one-time password (OTP) to your registered phone or email, enter the OTP in QuickBooks when prompted.
- Answer security questions: If your bank requires you to answer security questions, provide the answers within QuickBooks.
Method 3: Update QuickBooks to the Latest Version
Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can cause online banking errors. Updating to the latest version may resolve QuickBooks Error 187.
- Open QuickBooks: Launch the software.
- Go to the Help menu: Click on ‘Help’ and then select ‘Update QuickBooks Desktop.’
- Check for updates: Select ‘Get Updates’ and let QuickBooks download the latest updates.
- Restart QuickBooks: Once the updates are installed, restart the software and try to connect to your bank again.
Method 4: Check Your Internet Connection
A poor internet connection can prevent QuickBooks from connecting to your bank server. To ensure the connection is stable, follow these steps:
- Check your internet speed: Test your internet speed to ensure it is fast enough for online banking activities.
- Switch to a wired connection: If you’re using a wireless connection, try switching to a wired connection to improve stability.
- Restart your router: Sometimes restarting your router can improve internet connectivity.
Method 5: Reconnect Your Bank Account in QuickBooks
If none of the above solutions work, you can try disconnecting and reconnecting your bank account in QuickBooks.
- Go to the Banking tab: Open QuickBooks and click on the ‘Banking’ tab.
- Disconnect your account: Select the account that is giving you issues, and then choose ‘Disconnect this account on save.’
- Reconnect the account: After disconnecting, reconnect the account by following the on-screen instructions and entering your login credentials again.
Method 6: Wait for Bank Server Issues to Resolve
Sometimes, the problem may not be on your end. If your bank’s servers are undergoing maintenance or experiencing technical difficulties, you may encounter QuickBooks Error 187. In such cases, you will need to wait until your bank resolves the issue.
- Visit your bank’s website: Check for any announcements or alerts about server maintenance or downtime.
- Try again later: If your bank’s server is down, try reconnecting your account in QuickBooks after some time.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error 187 can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to manage your banking activities. However, the solutions provided above should help you fix the error and get back to business quickly. Always make sure your credentials are up to date and that you follow any additional verification processes required by your bank.
If the problem persists, consider contacting QuickBooks support or your bank’s customer service for further assistance. Remember, keeping your QuickBooks software updated and checking your internet connection can go a long way in preventing errors like this in the future.
