Managing payroll using QuickBooks can be seamless—until unexpected errors show up. One such common and frustrating issue is QuickBooks Error PS038. This error usually appears when trying to update or run payroll, halting productivity and potentially causing compliance issues with employee payments.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Error PS038: what it is, what causes it, and how to resolve it effectively.
QuickBooks Error PS038 typically occurs during payroll updates due to stuck paychecks. Call +1(866)408-0544 for expert help.
What is QuickBooks Error PS038?
QuickBooks Error PS038 typically occurs when a paycheck is stuck as “Online to send” in the system, preventing payroll updates. Even though your payroll subscription is active, QuickBooks fails to update due to pending paychecks that haven't been sent to Intuit.
Common Symptoms of QuickBooks Error PS038
You may notice the following signs when this error arises:
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Frequent error message: “You’ve retrieved the latest payroll update and validated your Payroll subscription. We strongly recommend that you go online again before <date>.”
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QuickBooks freezing or crashing
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Inability to send or update payroll data
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Software running slowly or inconsistently
Main Causes Behind QuickBooks Error PS038
Understanding why this error occurs can help in troubleshooting it effectively. Here are the common causes:
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Paychecks stuck as “Online to send”
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Using an outdated version of QuickBooks Desktop
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Payroll data not syncing with Intuit servers
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Corrupt company file or data issues
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Interrupted or incomplete payroll updates
How to Resolve QuickBooks Error PS038
Let’s walk through the troubleshooting steps to resolve this error:
Step 1: Update QuickBooks Desktop to the Latest Version
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Open QuickBooks Desktop.
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Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
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Select Update Now, then click Get Updates.
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Once done, restart QuickBooks.
Step 2: Verify Payroll Subscription
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Go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information.
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Log in using your Intuit credentials.
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QuickBooks will auto-refresh your subscription and sync it with the server.
Step 3: Locate and Send Stuck Paychecks
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Press Ctrl + F to open the Find window.
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Click Advanced > Choose Filter > Detail Level > Summary only.
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Add a filter for Online Status > Online to Send.
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Identify and resubmit or void any stuck transactions.
Step 4: Rebuild Data
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Go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data.
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Follow on-screen prompts and let the system fix file issues.
Step 5: Send Payroll Data Again
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Go to Employees > Send Payroll Data.
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Verify if the "Items to Send" list is empty.
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If not, send them manually or resolve each item.
You can also consider visiting this page for a related issue: QuickBooks Error 15240 — another common payroll update problem that can affect your workflow.
Preventing QuickBooks Error PS038 in the Future
To avoid encountering this error again, follow these best practices:
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Keep QuickBooks updated regularly
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Always finish sending payroll data before closing QuickBooks
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Avoid using multiple versions of QuickBooks on the same system
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Verify and back up your company file frequently
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Ensure your payroll subscription is always active
Learn More:
Learn how to resolve another common payroll error — QuickBooks Error 6123 — to keep your financial data safe and accessible.
FAQs About QuickBooks Error PS038
Q1: Can I fix Error PS038 without technical help?
Yes, in most cases, following the above-mentioned troubleshooting steps will fix the error. However, if you face complications, you can call +1(866)408-0544 for professional assistance.
Q2: Does Error PS038 affect all company files?
No, it generally affects only the file where the payroll update or stuck paycheck exists. Testing another company file can help verify if the issue is file-specific.
Q3: Will rebuilding data delete any of my entries?
No, rebuilding data only fixes file corruption and does not delete entries. Always take a backup before performing this step.
Q4: What if updating QuickBooks doesn't resolve the issue?
Try verifying payroll subscription and checking for unsent paychecks. These are the most common culprits. If that still doesn't help, contact QuickBooks support.
Q5: How often should I update QuickBooks and payroll?
You should check for updates weekly or bi-weekly and always run the latest payroll version to avoid compliance errors.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error PS038 can interrupt your payroll process, but with the right steps, it can be resolved efficiently. Keeping your software up to date, reviewing stuck paychecks, and maintaining good data practices are key to avoiding this issue in the future. If you still face issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts at +1(866)408-0544 for immediate help.