How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error?

The QuickBooks Unrecoverable Error usually occurs when QuickBooks Desktop tries to execute multiple tasks at once or when there are data integrity problems within the company file. These errors typically show up with unique numeric error codes, formatted as 10 digits in a “5-digits space 5-digits” sequence (e.g., 19740 43064). The list that is linked below is not all-inclusive; instead, you may run into other errors that are not like the ones stated above.

13730 84631	19758 63847	02457 79428
20888 41171	00227 55008	00000 14775
15563 13890	13824 75582	00551 46274
00000 15204	20103 33023	31197 00540
14070 43851	12565 30728	16059 98709
14070 47688	00000 24128	19062 00238

Common causes of an unrecoverable error include missing Windows or QuickBooks updates, damaged data, computer issues, and the need for program code repairs. Mentioned below are top 7 solutions in a step-by-step format to fix QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error?

Solution 1: Open QuickBooks with All Windows Closed

QuickBooks may throw an unrecoverable error if you have several windows or reports set to open automatically on startup. The program could be trying to load too many windows at once, which may cause the error.

Steps to open QuickBooks with all windows closed:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
2. In the No Company Open window, select your company file.
3. Press and hold the ALT key on your keyboard, then select Open. Keep holding the ALT key until the file opens.
4. If QuickBooks prompts you to sign in, release the ALT key, enter your password, and then press and hold ALT again before selecting OK.

This will allow QuickBooks to open without any extra windows, potentially avoiding the unrecoverable error.

Solution 2: Use a Different QuickBooks User

Sometimes, the error is linked to a specific user profile. If you have multiple QuickBooks users, try opening the company file using a different user.

Steps to create a new user:

1. Go to Company > Set Up Users and Passwords > Set Up Users.
2. For Enterprise users, go to the Company menu, select Users, and then choose Set Up Users and Roles.
3. Select Add User…, type in the new username and password, and click Next.
4. Customize the user settings as needed, and then select Finish.
5. Go to File, then select Close Company/Logoff.
6. Sign in using the new user credentials.

If the new user resolves the error, you can delete the problematic user and recreate them. If the error persists, proceed to the next solution.

Additional Note:

• If the error occurs when logged in as the admin user, try running QuickBooks File Doctor to resolve any file issues.

Solution 3: Add the User to the Administrator Group (For Windows 10, Server 2012 and newer)

Sometimes, the issue could be due to insufficient permissions for the user in Windows. You can add the user to the administrator group to ensure they have the necessary permissions.

Steps to add the user to the administrator group:

1. Open Server Manager.
2. Select Tools > Computer Management.
3. Expand Local Users and Groups > Groups.
4. Double-click Administrator Groups to open the Administrator Properties window.
5. Select Add and then enter the account name you want to add.
6. Select OK.
7. Log out and back into Windows, then try opening QuickBooks again.

If this resolves the error, the issue may be that your original user didn’t have the right permissions. You may need help from an IT professional to repair or replace your Windows user.

Solution 4: Open a Sample Company File

A sample company file can help determine if the issue is with QuickBooks or your company file itself. If a sample file opens without any issues, the problem likely lies with your company file.

Steps to open a sample file:

1. Press and hold the Ctrl key.
2. Double-click the QuickBooks icon to open the program.
3. Keep holding the Ctrl key until the No Company Open window appears.
4. Select Open a sample file and choose any sample file from the list.

If the sample file opens without the unrecoverable error, then your company file may be damaged. You can restore your file from a backup or use the Auto Data Recovery (ADR) feature to restore your file. If the error occurs with the sample file as well, move on to the next solution.

Solution 5: Move Your File to a Different Folder

Sometimes, the folder where your company file is stored may be damaged or have too long of a path. Moving your file to a different folder can help determine if this is the cause of the error.

Steps to move your company file:

1. Right-click on your Desktop, select New, and then choose Folder. Name the folder QBTEST.
2. Go to the folder where your company file is saved.
3. Right-click the file and select Copy.
4. Paste the company file into the QBTEST folder you just created.
5. Open the company file from the QBTEST folder.

If the error doesn’t appear when opening the file from the new location, it suggests that the original folder is damaged. You’ll need to create a new folder for your company file. If the error persists after moving the file, continue to the next solution.

Solution 6: Run Quick Fix My Program from the QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks offers a tool called the QuickBooks Tool Hub, which can fix many common issues, including unrecoverable errors. Running the Quick Fix My Program tool can resolve any issues with your QuickBooks installation.

Steps to run Quick Fix My Program:

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official QuickBooks website.
2. Open the Tool Hub and select Program Problems.
3. Click Quick Fix My Program.
4. Wait for the tool to finish diagnosing and fixing the issue, then try opening QuickBooks again.

Solution 7: Reinstall QuickBooks

If none of the above solutions work, your QuickBooks installation may be corrupted. Reinstalling QuickBooks can often resolve unrecoverable errors.

Steps to reinstall QuickBooks:

1. Uninstall QuickBooks from your computer via the Control Panel.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Download the latest version of QuickBooks from the official website.
4. Install QuickBooks and check if the error persists.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error?

Before attempting to fix the QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error, make sure to check the following prerequisites:

• System Requirements: Ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for running QuickBooks Desktop.
• QuickBooks Version & Update: Check if your QuickBooks version is up to date. It’s essential to have the latest release to avoid compatibility issues.
• Backup Your Company File: Always back up your company file before making any changes to avoid data loss.
• Ensure Sufficient Disk Space: Make sure there’s enough free space on your computer’s hard drive.
• Administrator Access: You should have administrative privileges to perform certain fixes, especially if they involve changing system settings.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error Code?

The QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error is usually indicated by an error message like:

Error Message: “QuickBooks has encountered a problem and needs to close. We’re sorry for the inconvenience.”

Error Code: The error code typically appears as a number or a string of digits after “Unrecoverable Error” (e.g., “Unrecoverable Error: [Error Code]”).

Common Symptoms:

1. The program freezes or crashes without warning.
2. You are unable to open the company file.
3. QuickBooks crashes while performing specific tasks like generating reports or printing checks.

To identify the error, note the specific error code and any associated error details shown on the screen.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error?

In case the QuickBooks Desktop Unrecoverable Error continues after attempting basic troubleshooting steps or if you’re unable to pinpoint the cause, it’s time to seek professional help. This is especially important if the issue is related to complex system settings, such as network drives or file corruption. A professional can diagnose the problem accurately, resolve it safely, and ensure that your QuickBooks software and data are functioning properly.