QuickBooks is an impressive software program, but like other Windows applications, it may experience technical problems and errors. One of these errors is known as "QuickBooks the file exists," which may occur during various operations in the QuickBooks Desktop, such as downloading a payroll update, paying scheduled liabilities, or opening a state or federal form.
If this error occurs, you may see one of two error messages on your computer screen: "The file you specified cannot be opened”. Make sure that it is not currently being used by another program or a read-only file," or "The Windows error was 'The file exists'."
What are the Causes behind payroll errors: The file you specified cannot be opened and the file exists?
QuickBooks users may encounter the payroll errors: The file you specified cannot be opened and the file exists. This error can occur when the required file is being used by another application or is being read incorrectly by QuickBooks.
Other causes of this error include:
- Outdated QuickBooks Desktop application
- Lack of necessary administrative rights
- Inactive internet connection
- Interruption by Windows User Account Control settings
- Installation errors in QuickBooks
- Faulty Firewall and Internet security settings.
To resolve the error, it is important to identify the specific cause and apply the appropriate troubleshooting method. If the cause is unknown, it is recommended to follow all troubleshooting steps in the given order.
Methods to Fix Payroll Errors: The file you specified cannot be opened and The file exists
Checkout these quick methods in order to resolve the payroll errors: The file you specified cannot be opened and The file exists:
Method 1: Check for updates in the QuickBooks Desktop application
- Open QuickBooks Desktop and click on the Help tab.
- From there, select the option "Update QuickBooks Desktop" and then go to the "Update Now" tab.
- Click on "Get Updates" to download any available updates for QuickBooks Desktop.
- After the download is complete, restart QuickBooks Desktop and click "Install Now" on the QuickBooks Update Service window to install the updates.
- Once the updates are installed, try to perform the same action that caused the error and check if it is resolved.
- If the error persists, move on to the next troubleshooting method.
Method 2: Turn off the Windows User Account Control (UAC) settings
UAC settings are designed to protect the operating system from external threats by restricting certain actions. However, sometimes UAC settings may mistakenly consider QuickBooks processes a threat and prevent it from functioning properly, leading to errors.
By temporarily disabling UAC, QuickBooks can perform its actions correctly and resolve the error. Disabling UAC is a troubleshooting method that can help to fix the error.
Method 3: Allow full control access to the user account
Different user accounts in Windows have different levels of privileges, and QuickBooks requires full control access to function properly.
If your user account does not have admin rights, follow the steps given below:
- Right-click on the QuickBooks Desktop icon and select the "Open File Location" option.
- Hit the backspace key on your keyboard or click the backward arrow to navigate to the root folder.
- Right-click on the QuickBooks folder and choose "Properties".
- Under the Security section, click on "Edit" and then select "Add".
- Choose "Everyone" and then click on "OK".
- Select the "Full Control" option and click on "Apply".
- Follow the same steps as above, but instead of selecting "Everyone", select your user account this time.
Conclusion
If you're not comfortable following any of the troubleshooting steps or if they don't work for you, it's recommended that you contact the QuickBooks error support team. You can reach the support team by dialing 1-800-615-2347.
The support team is experienced in handling Fix payroll errors: The file you specified cannot be opened and The file exists or other related error. They can provide you with an instant solution to the problem in the shortest possible time.
