12 Step-by-Step Solutions to Troubleshoot QuickBooks Error PS038

mikewiller19

Jul 16, 2025 - 14:25

EncounteringQuickBooks Error PS038can be frustrating, especially when youre trying to process payroll. This error often occurs when QuickBooks attempts to resend paychecks stuck in Online to send status, preventing successful payroll updates and causing system interruptions.
Discover 12 practical steps to troubleshoot and resolve QuickBooks Error PS038 with ease. Call +1-888-209-3999 for expert payroll support.

What is QuickBooks Error PS038?

QuickBooks Payroll Update Error PS038typically shows up when the software fails to send previously processed payroll data to Intuit's servers. The system continuously tries to resend these stuck paychecks, causing repeated update failures.

To learn more about the root causes and detailed troubleshooting, visit this helpful guide onQuickBooks Error PS038.

What Triggers Error PS038?

Stuck paychecks marked as "Online to send"
Damaged or corrupted company file
Incomplete payroll updates
Inactive payroll subscription
Running outdated QuickBooks Desktop software

Lets walk through 12 clear and effective solutions to fix it.

Step 1: Update QuickBooks Desktop

Outdated versions can cause sync and update issues.

How to Update:

Open QuickBooks
Go toHelp > Update QuickBooks Desktop
ClickUpdate Now>Get Updates
Restart QuickBooks and check payroll

Step 2: Use the Verify Data Utility

This detects errors in your company file.

Go toFile > Utilities > Verify Data
Wait for QuickBooks to scan for problems
If no issues are found, proceed to the next step

Step 3: Use the Rebuild Data Tool

If Verify Data reports issues, rebuild your data to fix them.

Go toFile > Utilities > Rebuild Data
Follow the prompts to back up and rebuild the file
Recheck your payroll after completion

Step 4: Search for Stuck Paychecks

Use theFindtool to locate problematic transactions.

PressCtrl + F
Go toAdvanced Tab
Set filters:
- Detail Level: Summary only
- Online Status: Online to send
ClickFind

Step 5: Resend or Void Paychecks

Address each stuck paycheck:

To resend:Open the paycheck and clickSend
To void:Open the paycheck > ClickVoid> Save
Recreate the paycheck if needed

Step 6: Check Payroll Subscription Status

QuickBooks needs an active subscription for payroll processing.

Go toEmployees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information
Sign in and confirm your subscription is current

Step 7: Download and Install QuickBooks Tool Hub

TheTool Hubcontains tools to fix payroll-related issues.

Download from Intuits official website
Install and open it
SelectPayroll Issuestab

Step 8: Use the Payroll Error Tool

From inside Tool Hub:

Go toPayroll Issues
ClickPayroll Error Tool
Let it scan and fix payroll data problems

Step 9: Use Quick Fix My Program

This tool resolves background process conflicts.

InTool Hub, go toProgram Problems
ClickQuick Fix My Program
Restart QuickBooks and retry the payroll update

Step 10: Resend Pending Payroll Data

Unsent payroll batches may prevent updates.

Go toEmployees > Send Payroll Data
Review the list of paychecks in theItems to Sendwindow
ClickSend All, or address each item as needed

Step 11: Run QuickBooks in Safe Mode

Safe Mode helps eliminate software conflicts.

HoldCtrlwhile opening QuickBooks
Log in to your company file
Attempt payroll update again

Step 12: Contact QuickBooks Payroll Support

If the issue persists after all steps:

Call +1-888-209-3999for direct assistance from a certified QuickBooks expert.

Final Thought

QuickBooks Error PS038can prevent payroll updates and create confusion, especially when stuck paychecks go unnoticed. By following these 12 step-by-step solutionsfrom updating QuickBooks and identifying stuck data to using the Tool Hub and checking your subscriptionyou can regain control over payroll. If the problem continues, contact+1-888-209-3999for personalized support from payroll professionals.

FAQs on QuickBooks Error PS038

Q1: What does "Online to send" mean in QuickBooks?
It indicates that a paycheck hasnt successfully synced with Intuits servers and is stuck in the send queue.

Q2: Can the Tool Hub fix all PS038 errors?
It helps resolve most payroll-related file or program issues. Some cases may still require manual data cleanup.

Q3: Should I void all stuck paychecks?
Only void paychecks that are invalid or already processed. Consult with your accountant first.

Q4: Will rebuilding data delete anything?
No, it only repairs data issues without deleting your transactions.

Q5: Where can I get help resolving QuickBooks Payroll Update Error PS038?
Call+1-888-209-3999for immediate help from QuickBooks-certified payroll specialists.

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mikewiller19 My name is Mike Willer, and I work at QBCommunity Pro. We deliver personalized software support and expert accounting services, including bookkeeping, cash flow optimization, financial reporting, and payroll management—to keep your business efficient and compliant.