How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error OL 222?

QuickBooks Error OL-222 occurs when importing a Web Connect (.QBO) file from your bank. The error message will say QuickBooks couldn’t complete the request and suggests contacting your bank. This happens because the QBO file has invalid formatting, such as unrecognized characters or a broken XML structure, which QuickBooks can’t process. This error is less common in QuickBooks Online, as it uses direct bank feeds instead of manual file imports.

To fix Error OL-222, update QuickBooks to the latest version. New updates often improve file compatibility. Make sure the QBO file is downloaded directly from your bank’s official website. If the file is corrupt or improperly formatted, open it in a text editor and remove or fix any invalid characters like &, <, or extra quotation marks. You can also ask your bank for a new or corrected file. Before troubleshooting, back up your company file. To avoid this error in the future, keep QuickBooks updated, verify your QBO file’s source, and check that it’s compatible with your current QuickBooks version. Below are 7 methods to fix QuickBooks Desktop Error OL 222.

Step 1: Install the Latest QuickBooks Desktop Updates

Updating QuickBooks can resolve error OL-222 by ensuring you have the latest features and fixes. Follow these steps to install the updates:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Right-click the QuickBooks Desktop icon.
3. Click Run as Administrator.
4. When Windows prompts for administrator login, enter the admin credentials and press Enter.
5. Once QuickBooks opens, go to the Help menu.
6. Click Update QuickBooks Desktop.
7. Select the Update Now tab and click Get Updates.
8. After the updates download, restart QuickBooks.
9. Click Install Updates to complete the process.

Step 2: Fix Formatting Issues in the .QBO File

Error OL-222 caused by a formatting issue in the .QBO file can be fixed by following these steps:

1. Right-click the .QBO file and choose Edit.
2. Select a text editor to open the file.
3. Search for the character &amp and delete it.
4. Click the File tab and select Save.
5. Close the file.
6. Open the file again in QuickBooks.

Step 3: Re-download and Replace the FIDIR.txt File

Error OL-222 can occur if there is an issue with the FIDIR.txt file. Follow these steps to resolve it:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Open the FIDIR.txt webpage and copy all the text.
3. Open a text editor and paste the copied text.
4. Save the file as FIDIR.txt on your desktop.
5. Delete the old FIDIR.txt file from your system.

To remove the old file:

6. Press the Option key and open the Finder app.
7. Click Go > Library.
8. Open Application Support > com.intuit.QuickBooks 20XX > Downloads.
9. Delete the FIDIR.txt file in the folder.

To remove it from the application:

10. Go to Applications using Finder.
11. Press and hold the Control key and click QuickBooks.
12. Choose Show Package Contents.
13. Open the Contents folder.
14. Open the Resources folder.
15. Delete the FIDIR.txt file inside.

16. Copy the new FIDIR.txt file from your desktop.
17. Paste it into both the Downloads and Resources folders.

Once done, re-import the .QBO file into QuickBooks.

Step 4: Download the Web Connect File

QuickBooks only supports .QBO files. Make sure you download this file directly from your bank.

1. Sign in to your bank’s website.
2. Find and download the .QBO Web Connect file.
3. Open QuickBooks and load your company file.
4. Import the downloaded .QBO file.

After importing, disconnect the account if you see your transactions. You can reconnect it later.
Should the error occur during download, the issue might be with the bank. Contact your bank for assistance.

Step 5: Check Bank Notifications

Check for any alerts or actions required by your bank.

1. Log in to your bank’s website.
2. Read all messages or notifications.
3. Follow any instructions provided, such as confirming your identity.

Disconnect the account in QuickBooks if your bank no longer supports Web Connect.

Step 6: Change the Bank Feeds Mode

Changing the bank feed mode can help resolve error OL-222 by switching to a more compatible setting. Follow the steps below to make the adjustment and re-import the file.

1. Go to the Banking menu in QuickBooks.
2. Click Bank Feeds, then select Change Bank Feeds Mode.
3. Choose Classic Mode (Register Mode).
4. Import the .QBO file again.

Step 7: Create a Test File to Check for Company File Issues

Creating a test company file helps determine if the issue lies with your original company file. Follow the steps below to create and use a test file:

1. Click the File menu and select New Company.
2. Choose Express Start or Start Setup.
3. Fill in the required details and add “Test” at the end of the company name.
4. Click Start Working.
5. Import the .QBO file into the test company.
6. Download transactions into the same bank account used in your main file.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error OL 222?

1. Backup your company file.
2. Use QuickBooks Desktop 2022 or newer.
3. Install the latest QuickBooks updates.
4. Ensure a stable internet connection.
5. Download the .QBO file directly from your bank.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Error OL 222?

1. Error message shows: “QuickBooks was not able to complete your request. (OL-222)”
2. Importing a .QBO file fails or freezes.
3. Banking transactions don’t appear after import.
4. .QBO file has special characters or formatting issues.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error OL 222?

1. Keep QuickBooks Desktop updated to the latest version.
2. Download .QBO files only from your bank’s official website.
3. Avoid editing .QBO files manually.
4. Use a supported QuickBooks version (2022 or newer).
5. Regularly back up your company file before importing bank data.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Error OL 222?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Error OL-222 if the error persists after updating QuickBooks, verifying the .QBO file source, and checking for formatting issues. Assistance is also recommended if you’re unsure how to inspect or correct the .QBO file, if the file appears corrupted or blank, or if multiple import attempts fail across different company files. Contact a QuickBooks ProAdvisor or your bank’s technical support if the issue involves unsupported bank formats or server-related problems.