Encountering QuickBooks Error 355 while updating your payroll or running essential accounting tasks can bring your entire workflow to a grinding halt. This frustrating issue typically appears when QuickBooks fails to download payroll updates or encounters conflicts during the installation process. But don't worry—you're about to discover comprehensive solutions that will get your accounting software back on track.
Master the art of fixing QuickBooks Error 355 with proven techniques. From basic restarts to advanced diagnostics, find the solution that matches your technical skill level.
Understanding QuickBooks Error 355
QuickBooks Error 355 manifests as a critical interruption in your payroll update process. When this error strikes, you'll typically see a message indicating that QuickBooks cannot complete the payroll update download or installation. This technical glitch affects businesses of all sizes, from solo entrepreneurs to large enterprises managing complex payroll systems.
The error usually occurs due to corrupted installation files, outdated software versions, or conflicts with your system's security settings. Understanding the root cause is your first step toward implementing an effective solution.
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Common Symptoms of This Error
When QuickBooks Error 355 appears on your screen, you might notice several telltale signs:
Payroll updates freeze midway through the download process
QuickBooks becomes unresponsive during update attempts
Repeated error messages disrupting your workflow
Inability to process employee paychecks on time
System performance degradation while running QuickBooks
Primary Causes Behind QuickBooks Error 355
Before diving into solutions, let's examine what triggers this error:
Corrupted Download Files: Incomplete or damaged payroll update files prevent proper installation, triggering the error code.
Internet Connectivity Issues: Unstable network connections interrupt the download process, leaving files partially transferred.
Outdated QuickBooks Version: Running an older software version creates compatibility problems with newer payroll updates.
System File Corruption: Windows registry errors or damaged system files interfere with QuickBooks operations.
Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Security software may mistakenly block QuickBooks from accessing necessary update servers.
Instant Fix Method 1: Restart Your System and QuickBooks
Sometimes the simplest solution proves most effective. Close all running programs, restart your computer, and launch QuickBooks fresh. This clears temporary cache files and resolves minor software conflicts that might be causing QuickBooks Error 355.
After restarting, attempt the payroll update again. Many users report success with this straightforward approach, especially when the error stems from temporary system glitches.
Instant Fix Method 2: Run QuickBooks as Administrator
Operating system permissions can prevent QuickBooks from executing critical operations. Right-click the QuickBooks icon and select "Run as Administrator." This grants the application elevated permissions to access system resources and complete payroll updates successfully.
Administrative privileges allow QuickBooks to modify protected system areas and registry entries essential for proper functionality. This method frequently resolves QuickBooks Error 355 when permission restrictions are the culprit.
Instant Fix Method 3: Update QuickBooks to Latest Version
Outdated software versions lack compatibility with current payroll updates. Navigate to the Help menu, select "Update QuickBooks Desktop," and click "Update Now." Check all available updates and proceed with the download.
Installing the latest patches and updates ensures your software contains necessary bug fixes and compatibility improvements. This proactive measure prevents QuickBooks Error 355 from recurring in future payroll cycles.
Instant Fix Method 4: Configure Internet Explorer Settings
QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer components for downloading updates, regardless of your default browser. Open Internet Explorer, access Internet Options, and navigate to the Advanced tab.
Scroll through the settings and ensure SSL and TLS protocols are enabled. Remove checkmarks from "Check for server certificate revocation" and "Check for publisher's certificate revocation." Click Apply and restart QuickBooks before attempting the payroll update again.
Instant Fix Method 5: Repair QuickBooks Installation
Corrupted program files require thorough repair. Access your computer's Control Panel, locate Programs and Features, and find QuickBooks in the installed applications list. Select it and choose the "Repair" option.
The repair utility scans your installation, identifies damaged files, and replaces them with fresh copies from the original installation package. This comprehensive approach eliminates file corruption causing QuickBooks Error 355.
Instant Fix Method 6: Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Security software sometimes blocks legitimate QuickBooks connections to update servers. Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus, then attempt the payroll update. If successful, configure your security software to whitelist QuickBooks executables.
Add QuickBooks program files to your firewall's exception list, ensuring the application can freely communicate with Intuit servers. This prevents future occurrences of QuickBooks Error 355 related to blocked connections.
Instant Fix Method 7: Use QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool
Intuit provides a specialized diagnostic utility designed to identify and resolve installation issues. Download the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool from the official Intuit website and run it on your system.
This powerful tool automatically detects problems with Microsoft .NET Framework, C++ components, and Windows registry entries that affect QuickBooks operation. It repairs these issues systematically, often eliminating QuickBooks Error 355 without manual intervention.
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Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
If standard methods don't resolve your issue, consider these advanced approaches:
Clean Install QuickBooks: Completely uninstall QuickBooks, remove all residual files, and perform a fresh installation. This nuclear option eliminates deep-seated corruption issues.
Create New Windows User Profile: Sometimes Windows user profile corruption affects QuickBooks. Creating a new profile with administrative privileges provides a clean environment for the application.
Check System Requirements: Verify your computer meets minimum specifications for your QuickBooks version. Insufficient RAM or outdated operating systems can trigger various errors including QuickBooks Error 355.
Preventing Future Occurrences
Once you've resolved the current error, implement these preventive measures:
Schedule regular QuickBooks updates during non-critical business hours
Maintain stable internet connectivity during payroll update windows
Keep Windows operating system fully updated with latest patches
Run regular system maintenance including disk cleanup and defragmentation
Create backup copies of company files before major updates
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error 355 doesn't have to derail your payroll processing or accounting operations. By systematically applying these instant fix methods, you'll restore QuickBooks functionality and maintain smooth business operations. Start with simple solutions like restarting your system, then progress to more comprehensive approaches if needed.
Remember that regular maintenance, timely updates, and proper system configuration prevent most QuickBooks errors before they occur. Keep your software current, maintain reliable internet connectivity, and configure security settings appropriately to minimize disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is QuickBooks Error 355?
QuickBooks Error 355 is a payroll update error that occurs when QuickBooks Desktop cannot successfully download or install payroll tax table updates. This error prevents users from processing employee paychecks and maintaining compliance with current tax regulations. It typically results from corrupted files, internet connectivity issues, or software configuration problems.
Can I continue using QuickBooks while this error appears?
You can continue using basic QuickBooks features, but payroll processing capabilities will be significantly limited. Without current tax table updates, you risk calculating incorrect withholdings and facing compliance issues. Address QuickBooks Error 355 promptly to avoid payroll disruptions and potential legal complications from outdated tax calculations.
How long does it take to fix this error?
Resolution time varies depending on the underlying cause. Simple fixes like restarting your system take minutes, while comprehensive solutions like reinstalling QuickBooks may require 30-60 minutes. Most users resolve QuickBooks Error 355 within one hour using the methods outlined in this guide.
Will fixing this error delete my company data?
No, the troubleshooting methods described here do not affect your company files or financial data. However, always maintain current backups before performing major operations like software reinstallation. Your accounting records remain safe throughout the QuickBooks Error 355 resolution process.
Does this error affect all QuickBooks versions?
QuickBooks Error 355 can potentially occur across multiple QuickBooks Desktop versions, including Pro, Premier, and Enterprise. The error is not version-specific but relates to the payroll update mechanism common to all editions. Solutions remain largely consistent across different QuickBooks releases.
Should I update Windows before fixing QuickBooks?
Yes, ensuring your Windows operating system is fully updated helps prevent compatibility issues that contribute to QuickBooks Error 355. Windows updates include critical patches for .NET Framework and system components that QuickBooks depends on for proper operation.
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