How to Fix QuickBooks Error 136 – Causes & Symptoms

QuickBooks Desktop Error 136 is typically triggered by issues during the installation process, such as corrupt files or outdated software versions. This error prevents users from accessing QuickBooks or their company files. Common causes behind the occurrence of error 136 include incomplete installation, corrupted company files, or conflicts between QuickBooks and other system components.

To resolve QuickBooks Error 136, ensure your system meets the necessary prerequisites, such as sufficient RAM, disk space, and the latest Windows updates. Early signs of this error include system lag, unresponsiveness, or the inability to open company files. Regular updates and troubleshooting steps, like clearing background processes or moving files to a different location, can help prevent this error. Check out the top 5 solutions that help in fixing QuickBooks Error Code 136.

Solution 1: Stop QuickBooks Processes in Task Manager

Stopping QuickBooks processes in Task Manager helps clear background tasks that may be causing QuickBooks error 136. Check out these steps.

1. Press the Taskbar on your Windows system.
2. Select “Start Task Manager.”
3. Go to the “Processes” tab.
4. Click on the “Image Name” header to sort results alphabetically.
5. Locate the QuickBooks-related processes in the list.
6. Click on the “End Process” button for each QuickBooks process.
7. Find and select “QBW32.exe.”
8. Press the “End Process” button to stop it.
9. This action will stop all QuickBooks processes running in the background.
10. Once done, try opening QuickBooks again to see if the issue is resolved.
11. In case the error persists, proceed to the next solution.

Solution 2: Suppress QuickBooks Desktop

Suppressing QuickBooks Desktop helps load the software without interference from certain processes that could trigger error 136. Follow the steps mentioned below:

1. Locate the QuickBooks Desktop icon on your Windows system.
2. Double-click the icon to open QuickBooks.
3. Press and hold the Alt key on your keyboard while opening the program.
4. Enter your password when prompted.
5. Release the Alt key after entering the password.
6. Click OK to proceed.
7. Once QuickBooks opens, press and hold the Alt key again.
8. Release the Alt key when QuickBooks fully loads.
9. Check if QuickBooks error 136 is resolved.

Solution 3: Open the QuickBooks Company File (Sample)

Opening a sample company file checks if QuickBooks can load properly, helping determine if error 136 is file-related. Refer to the step-by-step guide given below to open the sample company file.

1. Double-click the QuickBooks Desktop icon on your screen.
2. Hold down the Ctrl key on your keyboard while opening QuickBooks.
3. Keep holding the Ctrl key until you see the “No Company Open” window.
4. Click on Open a sample file at the bottom of the window.
5. Choose any available sample company file.
6. Open the selected sample file.
7. Restart your computer if necessary.
8. Check if QuickBooks error 136 persists after restarting.

Solution 4: Open the Company File from a Different Location

Opening the company file from another location can bypass errors caused by file corruption or access issues. Here are the steps:

1. Open the folder that contains your company files.
2. Find the file with the .QBW extension.
3. Right-click on the QBW file.
4. Select Copy from the context menu or use Ctrl + C.
5. Go to your desktop and right-click on an empty area.
6. Select Paste or use Ctrl + V to paste the file.
7. Once the file is on the desktop, press the Ctrl key and open QuickBooks.
8. When QuickBooks opens, select the company file from the desktop location.
9. Check if QuickBooks error 136 is resolved after opening the file.

Solution 5: Update QuickBooks Desktop Application

Updating QuickBooks ensures you have the latest bug fixes and patches, preventing errors like QuickBooks error 136. Follow these steps:

1. Open QuickBooks while holding the Ctrl key on your keyboard.
2. Click on the Help menu.
3. Select the Update tab.
4. Choose Update QuickBooks Desktop.
5. Click Update Now.
6. Press Get Updates.
7. Click OK when prompted.
8. Close the update window after completion.
9. Restart QuickBooks. If prompted, confirm to download the updates.
10. Allow the update to install.
11. Once installed, the error should no longer appear.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 136?

Prior to starting to fix QuickBooks Error Code 136, refer to the prerequisites mentioned below.

• Ensure your system has sufficient RAM and disk space to run QuickBooks.
• Verify that your Windows OS is updated to the latest version.
• Close all background applications, especially those that could interfere with QuickBooks.
• Check that you have administrative rights to make changes to the system.
• Back up your company files before attempting to resolve the error.
• Ensure that QuickBooks is running the latest software updates.
• Confirm there are no conflicting third-party applications.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Error 136?

Here’s how you can know that you have encountered QuickBooks Error 136.

• You might experience system lag or unresponsiveness when using QuickBooks.
• The mouse and keyboard inputs may not work correctly during QuickBooks operations.
• QuickBooks may freeze or crash when you attempt to access company files.
• You could see a “No Company Open” window when trying to open your company files.
• The error may prevent QuickBooks from launching or opening certain files.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 136?

After you fix QuickBooks Error 136, follow these prevention steps to avoid facing this error in the future.

• Always install the latest QuickBooks updates to avoid compatibility issues.
• Keep your system and software up to date, including Windows and QuickBooks.
• Ensure the QuickBooks installation directory has proper permissions for the user.
• Close unnecessary programs during QuickBooks installation or operation.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Error 136?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Error 136 if the basic troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, or if you’re unsure how to proceed. In case the error continues after restarting QuickBooks, updating the software, or checking for corrupted files, it’s time to reach out to an expert. Professional assistance ensures that the root cause is identified and fixed quickly, saving you time and preventing further disruptions to your workflow.