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  • Writer's picturePeter Adams

Learn How to Fix Payroll Error PS038 in QuickBooks

Updated: Mar 26


Payroll Error PS038 in QuickBooks
Payroll Error PS038 in QuickBooks

QuickBooks Error PS038 occurs when attempting to transmit paychecks online, resulting in them becoming stuck with the status 'Online to send.' As payroll processing relies on the smooth flow of transactions, resolving this error promptly becomes imperative.


The Payroll Error PS038 in QuickBooks indicates that the latest payroll update has been retrieved, and you need to validate your Payroll subscription. This error causes inconvenience for users trying to run payroll, download tax tables, and process paychecks seamlessly. Users should first identify the root causes of the problem before beginning troubleshooting to guard against any potential harm or corruption.


Don't worry if QuickBooks error PS038 is making it difficult for you to process payroll effectively. Simply give our Toll-Free Number 1-855-856-0042 a call to speak with our team of experts and obtain professional help. We'll help you quickly resolve this issue without interfering with your business processes or compromising the integrity of your data.

Factors Commonly QB Error PS038

Certainly, QB error PS038 typically arises due to issues with payroll service subscription verification.


  • If your version of QuickBooks is outdated, you may experience the PS038 issue. Make sure you have the most recent version to prevent running into this problem when processing payroll.

  • The PS038 error in QuickBooks can be caused by paychecks getting stuck in the system. Ensure paychecks are processed smoothly to prevent encountering this error during payroll tasks.


Recommended to Read: How Do I Fix QuickBooks Not Updating Issue


Solutions of QuickBooks Desktop Error PS038


Execute the steps in the provided sequence for a swift resolution of QuickBooks Desktop Error PS038.

Solution 1: Ensure Your QuickBooks Application Is Up to Date


Make sure you're using the most recent version of QuickBooks to resolve payroll issue PS038:


  • Open the QuickBooks application.

  • Go to the ‘Help’ menu.

  • Click on the ‘Update QuickBooks Desktop’ button.

  • Press ‘Update Now’ located in the top-right corner.

  • Choose ‘Get Updates.’

  • Once the update download is complete, close and reopen the application.

  • Verify the presence of the PS038 error in QuickBooks Desktop.


Solution 2: Confirm the Details of Paychecks Lodged in QuickBooks


Examine the information provided on paychecks that are stuck in QuickBooks when encountering QuickBooks error code PS038.


  • Follow the steps in the 'Check and Find Paycheck Stuck as Online to Send' section to locate all stuck paychecks in QuickBooks.

  • Open the first paycheck and select the ‘Paycheck Detail’ option.

  • In the ‘Review Paycheck’ window, navigate to the ‘Earnings’ tab.

  • Add the last item in the list as a new item.

  • Respond 'No' to close the ‘Net Pay Locked’ window.

  • Select the ‘Rate Field’ for the newly added item.

  • Verify there are no changes in ‘Net Pay’ and taxes, then click ‘OK.’

  • If prompted with the ‘Past Transactions’ message, click ‘Yes.’

  • Save & Close, confirming the Recording Transactions message with Yes.

  • Reopen the paycheck and click ‘Paycheck Details.’

  • Delete the item added in step four.

  • Ensure no changes in taxes and Net Pay, then click ‘OK.’

  • Save & Close to save the changes.

  • Repeat these steps for each paycheck to check if the error is resolved.


Payroll Error PS038 in QuickBooks is a common error that can be resolved by following the troubleshooting procedures outlined in this detailed blog. Users seeking further help can contact our QuickBooks payroll error support specialists at our Toll-Free Number 1-855-856-0042 for assistance with any QB-related issues.


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