QuickBooks has grown into a very popular accounting program over time, drawing customers in with its wide range of features. Users of QuickBooks Payroll may keep track of their earnings and outgoings while learning about different tax deduction options. Despite its advantages, QuickBooks Payroll has encountered numerous error codes, particularly those in the PSXXX series. This article will explore all potential solutions to resolve QuickBooks payroll update error PS036. 

This error can occur in various situations. Some users experience it when attempting to install the latest updates for QuickBooks Payroll, while others encounter it when downloading and installing the latest tax tables. Additionally, the error can arise when paychecks become stuck at the "Online to send" status. Regardless of the specific cause of your situation, this article aims to provide a comprehensive solution to this frustrating error.

What Causes Update Error PS036 in QuickBooks?

The payroll update error PS036 can appear for various reasons, some of which are listed below:

  • When users attempt to send online paychecks and encounter the Online To Send issue, an error message can instantly appear, halting the payroll process and requiring immediate attention.
  • Corrupted company files can be a reason why your QuickBooks payroll won't update. Ensuring the integrity of these files is crucial, as corruption can disrupt payroll operations and lead to significant errors.

Solution to Resolve QuickBooks Error Code PS036

To resolve error code PS036, you can follow the procedures outlined in the following options.

Solution 1: Confirm Details on Paychecks Stuck in QuickBooks

Follow the steps in the "Check and Find Paycheck Stuck as Online to Send" section to generate a list of all paychecks stuck in QuickBooks.

  • Head to the first paycheck from the list.
  • Now, choose the Paycheck Detail option.
  • From the Review Paycheck window, you need to go to the Earnings tab.
  • Locate the last item in the list and add it again as a new item.
  • When the Net Pay Locked window appears, click No to close it.
  • For newly added item, select the Rate Field.
  • Ensure there are no Net Pay and tax changes, then click OK.
  • If the Past Transactions message appears, click Yes.
  • Select Save & Close, and confirm by clicking Yes when the Recording Transactions message pops up.
  • Now open the Paycheck again and hit the Paycheck Details button.
  • In step four, delete the item you added.
  • Verify that the Net Pay and taxes remain unchanged, then click OK.
  • Click Save & Close to finalize the changes.
  • Repeat these steps for each paycheck and check if the error is resolved.

Solution 2: Utilize the Verify and Rebuild Data Tool

The verify and rebuild data tools are designed to fix issues with the company file. Access these built-in tools from the File menu to resolve the PS036 error in QuickBooks Desktop.

Steps To Utilize The Verify Data Tool

First, you need to 'verify' the data by following these steps:

  • Launch QuickBooks Desktop.
  • Click on the File menu.
  • Select Utilities.
  • Choose the Verify Data option.
  • If any issues are detected, proceed to use the Rebuild Data tool.

Steps To Utilize The Rebuild Data Tool

  • Go to the File menu.
  • Select Utilities and then choose Rebuild Data.
  • When prompted to save a backup, click OK and save the file to a preferred location.
  • Wait for the rebuild process to complete.
  • After completion, run the Verify Data scan again to confirm that previous issues have been resolved.

QuickBooks Payroll frequently encounters various error codes, including the common QuickBooks payroll update error PS036. This problem can be fixed by following the troubleshooting steps indicated in this comprehensive blog article.