“I’m Shawn, and I’m currently facing a synchronization issue in QuickBooks Online that’s holding up my entire accounting process. Normally, my bank transactions sync automatically every morning without a problem, but for the past few days, the sync either fails completely or pulls in partial data — missing several recent transactions.
I’ve already refreshed the connection multiple times, cleared browser cache, even tried logging in from a different device, but the bank syncing process still doesn’t complete properly. The system keeps showing a generic error code without much explanation, and I haven’t been able to reconcile accounts or keep my books up to date since this started.
This issue isn’t just inconvenient — it’s directly impacting how I manage vendor payments, track income, and prepare reports. Without accurate, real-time data, I can’t trust my numbers, and that puts me in a tough spot when I’m trying to make financial decisions or share data with my accountant.
I need urgent support to resolve this sync issue so I can get my books back in order and avoid falling behind any further.”
Hi Shawn,
You’re not the only one stuck in this situation. Many QuickBooks Online users rely on daily automatic bank syncs to keep their books accurate, but sometimes, even routine tasks like syncing transactions suddenly stop working.
You’ve already done all the right things:
- Refreshed the bank feed manually
- Cleared your browser’s cache
- Tried logging in from a different device
But if QuickBooks still imports only partial data, the problem is expected to run deeper, such as expired authorisation tokens, bank-side reauthentication requirements, or aggregator delays.
When this happens, it doesn’t just delay your workflow affects your ability to reconcile accounts, track payments, and make financial decisions with confidence.
This explains why you are experiencing these issues and provides simple steps to resolve this issue and fix synchronisation.
Common Reasons for Bank Transaction Synchronisation Errors in QuickBooks Online
Here are the most common reasons why QuickBooks fails to sync with your bank:
| Common Causes of Bank Transaction Synchronisation Errors | |
| Reasons | Explanation |
| Expired bank authorisation (OAuth token) | Most banks require you to reauthorise QuickBooks every 90 days for security. Even if the connection looks active, the sync will fail silently until reauthorised. |
| Corrupted or partially broken connection | QuickBooks shows your account as “connected,” but a hidden sync failure or credential mismatch is blocking transaction downloads. |
| Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) limitations | Banks that require one-time passwords or app confirmations block syncing until you verify your identity again manually. |
| Aggregator delays (Plaid/Yodlee) | Some banks send data to QuickBooks through a third-party aggregator. If that service has delays or outages, your feed will be incomplete or outdated. |
| Bank website issues or downtime | When your bank is undergoing maintenance or making changes to its online banking platform, the connection to QuickBooks breaks temporarily. |
Note: Refreshing the feed usually won’t resolve these issues; you need to reconnect or reauthorise the account.
How do I fix the sync if I’ve already tried refreshing and clearing the cache?
Since initial steps didn’t work, here are advanced fixes you can try to fully restore the bank connection.
Step 1: Fully Disconnect and Reconnect the Bank Account
Refreshing won’t work if the internal token is broken. You need to disconnect and reconnect completely. This resets the sync and resolves hidden credential/token issues.
Here’s how:
- Go to Transactions > Banking.
- Click the pencil (✏️) icon on the bank account.
- Select Edit account info.
- Check Disconnect this account on save, then click Save and Close.
- Return to the Link account, search your bank, and sign in again.
- Select the correct account type and date range (up to 90 days).
Some banks require renewed consent every 90 days or after password changes.
To fix this:
- Visit your bank’s online portal and log in.
- Look for:
- Security alerts or pop-ups
- Requests to reauthorise third-party apps (like QuickBooks)
- Return to QuickBooks and click Update on the bank feed.
- Complete any required authentication (OTP, security questions, etc.).
Step 3: Manually Upload Transactions While Sync Is Down
If the issue persists, manually upload recent transactions to keep your records current.
Here’s how to do it:
- Download a .CSV or .QBO file from your bank’s website.
- Go to Transactions > Banking > Upload from file.
- Select the account and upload your file.
- Map the fields (date, description, amount) and import.
If sync works again later, watch for duplicates. Manually match imported entries.
Step 4: Contact Intuit Support with Error Details
If none of the above solves the issue and you’re still seeing a generic error code, it may require Intuit’s backend team to investigate.
What to include when you contact support:
- A screenshot of the error message
- Name of the bank and account type
- Approximate last sync date
- Notes on what you’ve already tried
- Confirmation that you’ve manually reconnected and reauthorised
How to contact support:
- Go to Help > Search > Contact Us
- Or visit: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/learn-support/
Does this happen in QuickBooks Desktop too?
No, QuickBooks Desktop uses a different syncing system.
| QuickBooks Version | Connection Type | Real-Time Sync? | Sync Issue Example |
| Online | Express Web Connect (OAuth) | ✅ Yes | Missing transactions, generic sync error |
| Desktop | Web Connect (.QBO) or Direct Connect | ❌ No | Import errors, OL-222 or OL-301 errors |
QuickBooks Desktop users may see similar symptoms, but the causes like corrupted .QBO files or outdated Direct Connect settings and fixes are very different.
Pro Tips to Prevent Bank Sync Issues in the Future
- Reconnect your bank every 90 days as a best practice
- Regularly review transactions, especially after sync delays
- Use a CSV upload for missing date ranges if the bank only pulls 90 days
- Avoid switching bank login credentials without reauthorising QuickBooks
- Set a reminder to review sync health every Friday or month-end manually
FAQs
How do I know if my bank is having syncing issues with QuickBooks?
Check the error banner under Banking. You may also visit the bank’s website directly or see alerts at QuickBooks status page.
Why am I only getting partial data during sync?
Your bank feed may be timing out, or you may need to reauthorize QuickBooks for full data access.
Can I import older transactions if the feed only pulled 30 days?
Yes. Download a .CSV or .QBO file from your bank and upload it manually to fill gaps.
Disclaimer: The information outlined above for “Why isn’t my QuickBooks Online bank syncing even after refreshing or clearing the cache?” is applicable to all supported versions, including QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, Accountant, and Enterprise. It is designed to work with operating systems such as Windows 7, 10, and 11, as well as macOS.