QuickBooks Desktop is known for its efficiency in handling financial records, payroll, and business reporting. However, like any desktop-based accounting software, it relies heavily on system resources such as RAM and storage. One commonly reported issue by users is the QuickBooks Out of Memory Error, which typically appears when QuickBooks is unable to access sufficient system resources to complete an action. This problem can interrupt your workflow, cause QuickBooks to freeze, or even lead to repeated application crashes.
This detailed guide explains what causes this error, how to fix it, and what you can do to prevent it from occurring again. For immediate expert help, you can also get professional assistance by calling Dial Now +1-866-408-0444.
What Is the QuickBooks Out of Memory Error?
The "Out of Memory" error usually appears when QuickBooks tries to perform an operation but cannot obtain the required system memory (RAM). This can happen even if you think your computer has enough memory available. It occurs most often during actions like:
Opening large company files
Running multiple heavy reports
Loading multiple QuickBooks windows or modules
Importing/exporting large data files
Performing data-intensive tasks like payroll or inventory updates
QuickBooks may display messages like:
“QuickBooks is running out of memory.”
“Your computer does not have enough memory to continue.”
“Out of memory when attempting to allocate X bytes.”
Primary Causes of QuickBooks Out of Memory Error
Understanding the root causes helps you prevent this error in the future. Major reasons include:
1. Insufficient RAM or Resource Overload
QuickBooks Desktop requires a certain amount of memory depending on the company file size. When your RAM is overloaded with other running programs, QuickBooks may not get enough resources.
2. Corrupted Program Files
Damaged QuickBooks installation files or missing components can interfere with memory allocation.
3. Large Company File Size
Over time, your company file can grow very large due to transactions, attachments, or historical data, making QuickBooks consume more memory to process operations.
4. Windows System Issues
Windows memory management problems, outdated system patches, or corrupted registry entries can lead to performance glitches.
5. Background Applications Interference
Third-party apps like antivirus software, cloud sync tools, or heavy background programs may hog memory.
6. Damaged QuickBooks User or Preference Files
Corrupt user preference files can cause QuickBooks to misbehave and generate memory errors.
How to Fix QuickBooks Out of Memory Error (Step-by-Step Solutions)
Below are the most effective solutions to resolve this error quickly.
Solution 1: Close Unnecessary Background Programs
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Under Processes, identify heavy programs consuming CPU or RAM.
Right-click and choose End Task for unneeded processes.
Relaunch QuickBooks.
This frees up resources so QuickBooks can run smoothly.
Solution 2: Increase Your System RAM (If Possible)
QuickBooks Desktop Pro/Premier performs best with 8GB RAM or more. Enterprise users may require 16GB+. If your system meets only minimum requirements, upgrading RAM can permanently fix memory-related issues.
Solution 3: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub to Repair Program Issues
QuickBooks Tool Hub helps repair corrupted program files that cause memory allocation problems.
Steps:
Download and install the latest QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit source.
Open it and go to Program Problems.
Run Quick Fix My Program.
If the issue continues, run QuickBooks Program Diagnostic Tool.
This tool automatically repairs missing components like .NET Framework, MSXML, and C++ files.
Solution 4: Reduce Company File Size
If your company file is too large, consider:
Condensing your QuickBooks file
Removing unused list items
Archiving old transactions
Deleting duplicate data
A smaller file consumes less system memory and speeds up QuickBooks performance.
Solution 5: Repair QuickBooks Desktop Installation
Corrupt program installation is a common cause of memory errors.
Steps:
Open Control Panel
Choose Programs and Features
Select QuickBooks Desktop
Click Repair
Let the repair process finish, then restart your computer.
Solution 6: Update QuickBooks and Windows
Outdated software can cause memory management conflicts.
Update QuickBooks from Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop
Install the latest Windows updates via Settings > Windows Update
These updates fix bugs and enhance performance.
Solution 7: Adjust Virtual Memory Settings in Windows
Virtual memory helps your system compensate when physical RAM is insufficient.
Steps:
Search for Advanced system settings in Windows
Go to Performance > Settings
Click Advanced
Select Virtual memory: Change
Set the paging file size to 1.5 to 2 times your RAM
This provides smoother QuickBooks operation, especially for large company files.
Solution 8: Create a New QuickBooks User
Corrupted QuickBooks user profiles cause performance errors.
In QuickBooks, go to Company > Set Up Users and Passwords
Create a new admin user
Log in using the new profile
This often resolves memory-related issues instantly.
Solution 9: Run QuickBooks in Compatibility or Admin Mode
Right-click the QuickBooks Desktop icon → Properties → Compatibility:
Check Run this program as an administrator
Try running it in Windows compatibility mode if necessary
Admin access ensures QuickBooks gets full system privileges.
How to Prevent the Out of Memory Error in the Future
To avoid facing this error repeatedly, follow these preventive steps:
Keep your QuickBooks company file optimized
Upgrade system RAM if you're handling large files
Avoid running too many apps while using QuickBooks
Update QuickBooks Desktop regularly
Clean up your Windows system (junk files, registry issues)
Restart your computer periodically to clear memory
Store attachments externally instead of inside the company file
These practices help maintain your system’s performance and ensure QuickBooks runs efficiently every day.
When to Seek Professional Help?
If the error keeps returning even after applying the solutions above, your system or QuickBooks files may have deeper issues. In such cases, contacting a QuickBooks expert is the fastest way to get back on track.
For instant support, Dial Now +1-866-408-0444 to connect with certified QuickBooks specialists who can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
