Instant and Practical Hacks to QuickBooks Error PS038

[Kim Watson]

Consider yourself diligently running the QuickBooks payroll and suddenly interrupted by an error. QuickBooks Error PS038 is one such error. This error typically occurs while payroll is processed, tax tables must be downloaded, or paychecks get stuck at "Online to Send." Error PS038 requires careful handling because it includes sensitive payroll data, and inaccuracies could disrupt financial operations. This troubleshooting guide will dive into the factors causing this error and provide practical solutions to fix the issue.

However, if you still face challenges with QuickBooks error PS038, you can ring us at +1-855-738-2784 for further assistance.

Primary Factors Causing the QB Error PS038

Now, let's explore the root cause of payroll error PS038. Here are a few possible reasons.

1. Incorrect PIN or Password: Multiple attempts to transmit data fail when a PIN or password is entered incorrectly.
2. Outdated QuickBooks Desktop Version: Using an outdated version of QuickBooks Desktop could be a factor causing errors.
3. Ancient Tables for Payroll Taxes: failing to update payroll tax tables may cause errors. 

Resolving the QuickBooks Error PS038 with Simple Fixes.

Now that causes have been identified. Let’s dive into the step-by-step solution.

Solution 1 - Update the QuickBooks data and make a backup

The backup of data is a crucial part of data management. Backups protect against viruses, hardware failures, human error, and power outages. These errors are avoided via backups, saving time and money.

As found in the causes, one of the possible factors of the PS038 error can be using outdated QuickBooks. Therefore, let's update QuickBooks to its latest version.

1. Launch QuickBooks Desktop and select Help from the Help menu. A drop-down menu with options will appear.

2. From the drop-down box, choose the Update QuickBooks Desktop option.

3. The Overview, Options, and Update Now tabs will appear on the screen.

4. Check whether the Automatic update is enabled by selecting the Overview tab.

5. Select Update Now if there is a new version available.

Note: Select the option and press the Yes button to turn on Automatic Update if it hasn't already been enabled.

It indicates that QuickBooks will send you updates in the future.

6. To start the download, select the Update Now option and select Get Updates.

7. To apply the update, QuickBooks will prompt you to restart the computer after downloading.

Create a backup copy of your QuickBooks Desktop company file now.

Proceed to the next solution if you are still having issues.

Solution 2 - Send the usage data

1. Launch QuickBooks and find Employees on the dashboard.
2. Click the drop-down menu, choose My Payroll Service, and then click Send Usage Data. If you cannot see this option, move on to the next step.
3. Navigate back to the Employees section of the dashboard and choose Send Payroll Data.
4. Select Send All in the Send/Receive Payroll Data window. If prompted, provide the payroll service pin.
5. Try again to get payroll updates if the send goes successfully.

The practical fixes mentioned above are what our technical experts suggested performing to resolve QuickBooks error PS038. If you follow the instructions in sequences, you can solve the issue. However, if the challenge persists after trying the mentioned approach for QuickBooks error PS038, contact us at +1-855-738-2784.