Find out the updated solutions to resolve QuickBooks Error Code 557. We have posted all the possible solutions in this article.
Payroll Error Code 557 usually pops up on the screen at the time of downloading payroll updates after upgrading to a newer version of QuickBooks. Users face this issue while sending out payroll information. You will be asked to register for QuickBooks Desktop and then see the error message 557 in the QuickBooks Desktop payroll wizard.
QuickBooks Error Code 557 is one of such errors that can hinder your daily activities.In the following post, we will be discussing the causes, and solutions to fix error code 557.
In the following post, we will be discussing the causes, and solutions to fix error code 557.
| Error | Description |
| Error Description: | Error 557: QuickBooks has encountered an error and requires to close. We are sorry for such an inconvenience. |
| Developer: | Intuit Inc. |
| Software: | QuickBooks |
| Applies to: | Windows XP, Vista, 8, 7 |
| Causes: | Error 557 may appear while downloading the latest updates to QuickBooks payroll. |
| Solutions: | Update QuickBooks Desktop. Create a backup of QuickBooks-related registry files. Use system restore in Windows. Eliminate any malicious file. |
What is QuickBooks Error Code 557?
QuickBooks Error 557 mainly takes place while downloading QuickBooks payroll updates after upgrading QuickBooks. Furthermore, you may also come across the same error code because of incorrect syntax or commands. A slow internet connection may also lead to error 557. You will face the following error message on your screen.
“Error 557: QuickBooks has encountered an error and requires to close. We are sorry for such an inconvenience.”
Due to this error code, you will be unable to access QuickBooks Payroll. Let’s check out the leading factors affecting the error code 557.
What leads to QuickBooks Error 557?
There can be plenty of reasons behind the occurrence of error 557. We are listing a few of them that will help you to fix the error accordingly.
- While installing or uninstalling the software, you may face QuickBooks error code 557.
- When the payroll subscription is not active.
- There is data corruption in QuickBooks or in the company file.
- There might be some missing QuickBooks Desktop updates
- An incorrect service key.
- An invalid EIN in QuickBooks
- The current QuickBooks version is incompatible with the Windows version.
- Because of the deletion of the QuickBooks directory files.
- When a virus or malware attack has damaged the PC.
- Improper shutdown of the system may also lead to this issue.
How to Resolve QuickBooks Payroll Error 557?
Various solutions are available on the web that can help you in resolving QuickBooks error 557. Here, we are explaining some of the relevant solutions. Have a look at all of them one by one.
Solution 1: Use System Restore in Windows
Step 1: Firstly, you need to log into the system as an Admin.
Step 2:After that, choose the Windows Start option.
Step 3:Next, click on Accessories > System Tools > System Restore.
Step 4:Choose the restore point or go with the one from the automatically created restore points.
Step 5:Meanwhile, choose Next and then wait for the System Restore.
Step 6:After completing the system restore process, restart the PC.Step 7:Finally, restart the QuickBooks Software.
Step 1:Initially, launch the system and type ‘command’ in the search box.
Step 2:After that, press and hold the Ctrl + Shift keys altogether. Next, press Enter.
Step 3:Choose the permission panel and select Yes.
Step 4:Now, a blinking indicator will pop up on the screen where you need to type ‘Regedit’. Choose the Enter Key.
Step 5:Meanwhile, select the error code in the QuickBooks Registry Files.
Step 6:Click on the Export option from the File menu.
Step 7:Select the folder from the ‘Save In the List’ option.
Step 8:Open the File Box name and type A name for the file, for instance, QuickBooks backup.
Step 9:Make sure that you have chosen the ‘Selected branch’ in the Export range box.
Step 10:Choose the Save option and save the file with a .reg file extension
Step 11:Finally, you have the backup of your QuickBooks-related registry files.
Solution 3: Run a Complete Malware Scan on the System
Sometimes, running a malware scan can help you out in eliminating error 557. Windows issues can be encountered because of different types of malware. As a result, it will be best to look for malware or viruses on your system. And, undo or reverse a recent update to the Windows system to get rid of this error code.
Solution 4: Update QuickBooks Desktop
Step 1:Firstly, access the QuickBooks Desktop.
Step 2:Now, choose the Help menu and then tap on update QuickBooks Desktop.
Step 3:Next, select Update Now.
Step 4:Choose the Reset Update option and then click on get updates.
Step 5:This process may take some time to update.
Step 6:Finally, check whether the error has been fixed or not.
Concluding the Article!
We hope that the above article has proved to be fruitful while fixing QuickBooks Payroll Error 557. If none of these solutions worked to eliminate the error 557, you should contact our QuickBooks experts. To get in touch with our ebetterbooks team, dial a toll-free technical support phone number 1-802-778-9005. If you feel hesitant to talk, post a forum on our website or chat with one of our technicians.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Payroll Error Code 557 can disrupt important payroll operations, but it can be managed with the right approach. Regularly updating your software and checking your subscription details can help prevent similar problems in the future.
If the error persists despite following these troubleshooting steps, it’s advisable to contact QuickBooks support or consult a certified expert to ensure your payroll processes remain accurate and uninterrupted.
FAQs:
Why is verifying my Payroll Service Key so important when fixing Error 557?
Error 557 often occurs when QuickBooks cannot properly validate your paid payroll subscription. The Payroll Service Key is the unique identifier that links your QuickBooks company file to your active Intuit payroll subscription. If this key is incorrectly entered, missing, or deactivated, QuickBooks won’t be authorized to download the necessary tax table updates, leading to the 557 validation error. You must ensure the key is correctly linked and the status is Active.
How can I confirm whether my QuickBooks Payroll subscription is active after updating the software?
You can verify your payroll subscription status via Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information in QuickBooks Desktop or through the Account Management portal. This helps ensure that payroll features remain functional after an update or system change.
Can a security setting in my antivirus software block payroll updates without generating a firewall alert?
Yes. Modern antivirus and internet security suites often perform deeper inspection than just a basic firewall. They may flag the QuickBooks update process (qbwebpatch.exe or similar executables) as a threat due to its attempt to modify system files or access the internet, effectively quarantining the update file or terminating the process before a clear firewall alert is generated. This interference disrupts the update verification process, which can result in Error 557.
How do I ensure my QuickBooks Desktop software version is compatible with the latest payroll update?
Payroll updates (like tax tables) are specifically designed for supported versions of QuickBooks Desktop. If you are using an outdated or retired version of QuickBooks (e.g., a version three years older or more), the latest payroll update will not install, often triggering validation failures like Error 557. You must ensure your QuickBooks Desktop version is current or supported by Intuit’s official sunset policy for that tax year.
If I have multiple company files, do I need to run the payroll update for each file?
No. The payroll tax table update (and the subsequent software patch that causes or fixes Error 557) is a software-level installation and only needs to be performed once on your computer. However, you must ensure your payroll subscription is correctly activated within each company file you use to process payroll. The update itself applies to the QuickBooks program, but the subscription status applies to the company file.
Does QuickBooks require specific Windows updates or system settings for payroll functions to work properly?
Yes. Payroll relies on correct system date/time settings, supported Windows versions, and Microsoft components like .NET Framework and MSXML. Ensuring these are updated minimizes issues during payroll calculations and data downloads.
Can using an outdated Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Payroll Service Key cause payroll features to stop working?
Yes. If your EIN or Payroll Service Key changes (e.g., due to business restructuring), you must update it within QuickBooks. Incorrect credentials can prevent payroll features from syncing properly with Intuit’s servers.
How can I see which user made changes to payroll settings before or after a failed update?
You can check the Audit Trail or Audit Log (QB Desktop vs. QB Online) to review user actions, including modifications to payroll preferences, service keys, or subscription data. This helps identify configuration changes that affect payroll updates.