QuickBooks error PS036 belongs to error code series PS0XX, and like other error codes in the series, it also occurs when updating QuickBooks Payroll. Updating the payroll service in QuickBooks is important as it enables you to access the latest tax rates, calculations, etc. Therefore, you need to keep your payroll updates in check.

However, technical issues, such as error code PS036 in QuickBooks can make it difficult for you to install the latest payroll updates. Besides, there are multiple factors that can evoke this issue, so it becomes necessary to address those factors with suitable solutions. Let’s find out the possible causes and solutions for QuickBooks update error PS036 with the help of this friendly post.

What Is PS036 Error in QuickBooks Desktop?

QuickBooks error PS036 takes place when installing the latest payroll updates. When the error occurs, QuickBooks shows a warning message stating that the program needs to close. The error mainly occurs when the payroll subscription verification fails. Sometimes, the subscription verification failure occurs when you change your payment details. Multiple other factors can also be blamed for causing error PS036 in QuickBooks.

What Causes QuickBooks Payroll Error PS036 To Take Place? 

QuickBooks error PS036 mainly occurs when your payroll subscription is either inactive or can’t be verified. However, some other factors can also evoke this error, as stated below:
      
    • If an important QuickBooks file, “Paysub.ini,” is damaged.
    • Corruption in the QuickBooks company file can also promote this error.
    • Outdated Windows components or damaged QuickBooks installation are some other potential reasons for QuickBooks payroll update error PS036.
    • The service key used to activate the QuickBooks payroll service is incorrect.
    • When you are running QuickBooks with incompatible Windows settings or components.
    • An invalid EIN number is also one of the main reasons that can give rise to payroll error code PS036 in QuickBooks.
    • Make sure that the Payroll Service Identifier (PSID) of the company file is not damaged, or it can give the error.
    • If the latest maintenance release is not installed for QuickBooks, the error can take place.

Consequences Of PS036 Error in QuickBooks

Using an outdated QuickBooks payroll service can affect your payroll management processes adversely in several manners. You won’t be able to get the latest payroll tax rates and calculations that can lead to inaccuracies in the payroll calculations.

Besides, the performance of your Windows is also affected by the QuickBooks payroll update error PS036. You may notice a sluggish performance of an active windows crashing every now and then. You will have to purchase a new subscription and even re-install the QuickBooks application due to the aftermaths of the error experienced.

Methods To Resolve Error PS036 in QuickBooks Desktop

After navigating through the critical information about the QuickBooks error PS036, let’s proceed to the troubleshooting method:

Solution 1: Check and Verify That Your QuickBooks Payroll Subscription Is Active

Check your payroll subscription to rule out the possibility that the QuickBooks error PS036 occurred due to an inactive subscription. 
      
    • Close all your company files before you start and restart your PC. 
    • Thereafter, open QuickBooks and go to the Employees section. 
    • Here, you are supposed to choose My Payroll Service and then the Manage Service Key option. 
    • Check and confirm that Service Name and Status are correct and Active. 
    • Now, click the Edit button and validate your service key number. If incorrect, rectify the service key number before moving ahead. 
    • Hit Next, unmark the checkbox for the Open Payroll Setup option and click Finish. 
    • The correct implementation of this procedure will download the complete payroll update. 
      
Alternatively
      
    • Go to the Employees section in QuickBooks and click on My Payroll Service option.
    • After that, click Account/Billing Information and log into your Intuit account using the relevant credentials. 
    • It will open the Payroll Account Management portal, where you can check the status of your QuickBooks payroll subscription. 

Solution 2: Register and Update QuickBooks Accounting Software

Having the latest patch for QuickBooks ensures the latest security and software improvements. Therefore, you need to check and confirm that QuickBooks is registered and updated.
      
    • When in QuickBooks, press the F2 key, and it will open the Product Information Window.
    • Here, check if you see Activated next to the License Number.
    • Contrarily, if you don’t see the Activated status, navigate to the Help menu and click the Activate QuickBooks Desktop option.
    • Now, follow the on-screen prompts to verify the details.

Update QuickBooks Desktop
      
    • Start by closing the company file/s. Then, close the QuickBooks program as well. 
    • Next, right-click on the QuickBooks Desktop icon and thereafter, select Run as administrator.
    • When the No Company Open window appears, select the Help menu and click on the Update QuickBooks Desktop option. 
    • Subsequently, click on the Mark All option from under the Options tab, then click Save. 
    • Now, checkmark the box against the Reset Update option, which is located underneath the Update Now tab. 
    • Lastly, click on the Get Updates option, and the latest QuickBooks update will be downloaded. 
    • Close and restart QuickBooks and install the downloaded updates by following the instructions on your screen. 
    • After the successful installation of the updates, restart QuickBooks and check if the QuickBooks error PS036 is fixed or not. 

Solution 3: Rename The Paysub.ini File To Fix Error PS036

The Paysub.ini file stores the information about the payroll subscription. If damaged, you won’t be able to verify your QuickBooks payroll subscription. Renaming the file repairs the damage, and you will have an error-free copy of the file. 
      
    • Keep in mind that INI is a hidden file on Windows, so you need to show the hidden files and folders in Windows first. 
    • After applying this setting, click Apply and then the OK tab. 
    • Now, move back to My Computer and locate Paysub using the search bar. 
    • When the Paysub.ini file appears, right-click on it and select Rename. 
    • Using the Rename option, add .OLD at the end of the file name. 
    • You need to repeat the same procedure for all the paysub files.

Solution 4: Run Quick Fix My Program From Tool Hub

Partial or damaged installation of the program is a possible reason for the error PS036 in QuickBooks Desktop. Quick Fix My Program is an excellent utility which repairs the common issues related to the program.
      
    • The program is accessible from within the QuickBooks Tool Hub, so you need to download and install it on your system.
    • Thereafter, open the tool hub and select Program Problems.
    • When you see the Quick Fix My Program tab, hit a click.
    • After initiating the process, the tool will repair the common issues in the QuickBooks program.

In Conclusion!

The solutions included in this post address the potential causes of QuickBooks payroll update error PS036. The cautious execution of these procedures can bring the error to an end. Alternatively, users can also reach out to QuickBooks Help Desk if not comfortable with these technical resolutions.

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