How to Fix QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code 20?

The QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code -20 occurs when there is a compatibility issue between your operating system and the version of QuickBooks you’re using. For instance, using an older version like QuickBooks 2009 on Windows 10 can cause problems, especially during printing or saving forms as PDFs. A common sign of this issue is QuickBooks failing to update automatically, which leads to errors when trying to print. The error message “Printer not activated, Error Code -20” often appears after a Windows upgrade or QuickBooks reinstallation.

This error is usually caused by registry problems, such as the accidental deletion or modification of the KEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\Software registry key, which is necessary for printing. Other causes include missing QuickBooks PDF Converter drivers, insufficient user permissions, or conflicts with third-party PDF software. To fix the issue, users can reinstall the PDF converter, use the QuickBooks Tool Hub’s PDF & Print Repair Tool, adjust registry permissions, or run QuickBooks in compatibility mode. Ensuring administrative rights and keeping both QuickBooks and Windows up to date can help prevent this error.

Method 1: Reinstall QuickBooks

Reinstalling QuickBooks can fix issues caused by damaged or corrupted files. This process ensures a fresh installation. Before reinstalling, run a system cleanup with your security software.

1. Close QuickBooks and all running programs.
2. Open the Control Panel.
3. Select Programs and Features.
4. Find QuickBooks and click Uninstall.
5. Download the correct QuickBooks version for your system.
6. Reinstall QuickBooks using the setup file.
7. Restart your computer after installation.

Note: For issues with the PDF converter, uninstall the old driver and install a compatible version for your operating system.

Tip: Run a system cleanup with your security software before reinstalling QuickBooks.

Method 2: Manually Update the Registry Key

A clean Windows 7 installation can help prevent registry-related errors. Use one of the two methods below to grant registry permissions:

Step 1: Use Registry Editor

1. Press Windows + R and type regedit, then press Enter.
2. Right-click regedit and select Run as administrator.
3. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\Software.
4. Right-click the Software folder and select Permissions.
5. Confirm that the user has Full Control.
6. Click OK and close the Registry Editor.

This grants QuickBooks the required access to registry keys and printers.

Step 2: Use PowerShell Script (Windows 10 Only)

1. Log in with the user needing access.
2. Open Start, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
3. Type powershell and press Enter.
4. Paste the script below into the Command Prompt:

PowerShell.exe -NoProfile -NoLogo -NonInteractive -Command “$key = [Microsoft.Win32.Registry]::CurrentConfig.OpenSubKey(‘Software’,[Microsoft.Win32.RegistryKeyPermissionCheck]::ReadWriteSubTree,[System.Security.AccessControl.RegistryRights]::ChangePermissions); $acl =$key.GetAccessControl(); $rule = New-Object System.Security.AccessControl.RegistryAccessRule (‘Users’,’FullControl’,’ObjectInherit,ContainerInherit’,’None’,’Allow’); $acl.SetAccessRule($rule); $key.SetAccessControl($acl);”

5. This sets proper registry permissions and prevents future errors.

Alternate Methods

Method 1: Use QuickBooks Print and PDF Repair Tool

1. Download and open the Print and PDF Repair Tool.
2. Run the tool as administrator.
3. Wait for the tool to launch.
4. Update QuickBooks to the latest version.
5. Check that the printer works.
6. Close all other programs.
7. Restart your system.

Method 2: Fix Microsoft Document Writer

1. Right-click the QuickBooks icon and select Properties.
2. Click Find Target (or Open File Location).
3. Double-click the installer (.exe) to reinstall the PDF converter.
4. Click OK when the installation completes.
5. Open the Start menu, type control printers, and press Enter.
6. In the Printers window:
   1. For Windows 7: Right-click Document Converter and select Printer Properties.
   2. For Windows XP: Right-click Document Converter and select Rename.
7. Check your QuickBooks version and release.
8. Enter the correct printer name and press Enter.

Method 3: Check Microsoft XPS Document Writer

1. Select Microsoft XPS Document Writer from the printer list.
2. It allows QuickBooks to save PDFs.
3. Missing components may cause errors.

Steps to reinstall:

1. Right-click the QuickBooks icon and select Open file location.
2. Find the folder for your QuickBooks version in the Temp folder.
3. Go to the ThirdParty folder and run the .exe file to install.
4. Register the license in QuickBooks if prompted.
5. Restart the installation if it stops midway.
6. Try printing to check if the issue is fixed.

Method 4: Check and Configure Print Spooler Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find Print Spooler in the list and right-click it.
3. Select Properties.
4. Click Stop, wait a few seconds, then click Start to restart it.
5. Close all windows and try printing or saving a PDF from QuickBooks.

Method 5: Check and Repair QuickBooks PDF Capabilities via QBprint.qbp File

1. Open Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
2. Locate QuickBooks in the list of installed programs.
3. Right-click it and select Change.
4. Choose the Repair option and follow the instructions.
5. After the repair, restart your system.
6. Try printing or saving a PDF in QuickBooks.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Printer Not Activated Error Code 20?

1. Log in as administrator.
2. Backup the registry using regedit.
3. Update QuickBooks to the latest.
4. Ensure your Windows version is compatible with your QuickBooks version.
5. Disable antivirus/firewall temporarily.
6. Close conflicting background apps.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Printer Not Activated Error Code 20?

1. Error Code -20 when printing, emailing, or saving as PDF.
2. QuickBooks fails to print checks, invoices, or reports.
3. PDF save option unresponsive or triggers error.
4. Issue after Windows or QuickBooks upgrade.
5. QuickBooks stops updating or has printing issues.
6. QuickBooks PDF Converter missing or inactive.
7. Windows registry errors or access denied during printing.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code 20?

1. Use a QuickBooks version compatible with your Windows OS.
2. Run QuickBooks as administrator for full system access.
3. Regularly update QuickBooks and Windows.
4. Avoid editing or deleting registry keys, especially KEY_CURRENT_CONFIG\Software.
5. Reinstall QuickBooks using official setup tools when upgrading or repairing.
6. Use trusted PDF software; avoid conflicting third-party tools.
7. Backup system and registry before major updates.
8. Keep printer drivers and PDF Converter updated and configured.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Printer Not Activated Error Code 20?

Seek professional help if basic troubleshooting fails, such as reinstalling the PDF converter, using QuickBooks Tool Hub, or adjusting compatibility settings. Get support if you’re unsure about registry edits or encounter problems after making them. If the error persists on multiple devices or with an outdated QuickBooks version incompatible with your Windows OS, expert help is needed. Contact us for repeated permission errors, missing components, or if you’re uncomfortable making system changes.