Resolve QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15240 Easily

 Managing payroll in QuickBooks Desktop is a critical part of business operations. However, users sometimes encounter technical problems that interrupt this process. One such issue is QuickBooks Payroll Error 15240—a frustrating error that often occurs during payroll updates or while downloading tax table updates.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the possible causes, how to identify the error, and step-by-step solutions for fixing Payroll Update Error 15240 in QuickBooks Desktop.

What is QuickBooks Payroll Error 15240?

Error 15240 is a payroll update-related issue that arises when QuickBooks fails to download or install updates. It is usually triggered by permission conflicts, misconfigured settings, or blocked internet access, all of which prevent QuickBooks from connecting to update servers.

Typical Error Messages Include:

• “Error 15240: The payroll update did not complete successfully.”

• “File not found.”

• “Internet connection error or invalid FTP address.”

• “Access denied.”

Primary Causes of QuickBooks Error 15240

Understanding the triggers behind this error helps in selecting the right troubleshooting approach. Common causes include:

• Inaccurate system date and time

• Incorrect Internet Explorer settings

• Lack of administrative permissions

• Blocked access by firewall or antivirus software

• Issues with User Account Control (UAC)

• Corrupt or incomplete QuickBooks installation files

How to Recognize Error 15240 in QuickBooks

You may be experiencing Error 15240 if you notice one or more of the following:

• Payroll updates fail consistently

• QuickBooks crashes during update attempts

• Slow or unresponsive system during updates

• Error messages related to access denial or file not found

Before You Begin Troubleshooting

Before jumping into the solutions, ensure the following steps are completed:

• ✅ Update QuickBooks to the latest version

• ✅ Log in as an Administrator

• ✅ Backup your company file

• ✅ Ensure a stable and active internet connection

How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15240

Below are several tested solutions that can help you resolve this error.

Solution 1: Check System Date and Time

1. Right-click the time on your Windows taskbar.

2. Choose Adjust date/time.

3. Ensure that the date, time, and time zone are all set correctly.

4. Make adjustments if necessary, then click OK.

5. Restart QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update again.

Solution 2: Run QuickBooks as Administrator

1. Right-click the QuickBooks Desktop shortcut icon.

2. Select Run as Administrator.

3. Retry downloading the payroll updates.

Running QuickBooks with admin privileges helps overcome permission-related obstacles.

Solution 3: Adjust Internet Explorer Settings

QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer for internet configurations.

1. Open Internet Explorer.

2. Navigate to Tools > Internet Options > Advanced tab.

3. Scroll down to the Security section.

4. Ensure that SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 are checked.

5. Apply the changes and restart QuickBooks.

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Solution 4: Configure Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Firewall or antivirus software may be preventing QuickBooks from accessing servers.

Steps to Allow QuickBooks in Firewall:

1. Open Windows Defender Firewall.

2. Click on Allow an app through the firewall.

3. Add these QuickBooks files:

   • QBW32.exe

   • QBUpdate.exe

   • IntuitUpdateService.exe

4. Enable both Private and Public network access.

5. Repeat for any third-party antivirus applications.

Solution 5: Verify Internet Connection Settings in QuickBooks

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Go to Help > Internet Connection Setup.

3. Choose Use my computer’s Internet connection settings...

4. Click Next, then Done.

5. Retry the payroll update process.

Solution 6: Perform a Clean Reinstall Using QuickBooks Clean Install Tool

This method fixes corrupted installations that cause update failures.

1. Uninstall QuickBooks from your system.

2. Download the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool from Intuit’s official website.

3. Run the tool to remove residual files.

4. Reinstall QuickBooks using a fresh setup.

5. Check if the error persists when updating payroll.

Solution 7: Temporarily Disable User Account Control (UAC)

1. Press Windows + R, type Control Panel, and press Enter.

2. Search for User Account Control Settings.

3. Slide the bar down to Never Notify.

4. Click OK and restart your system.

5. Retry the update.

⚠️ Don’t forget to revert the UAC settings once you're done troubleshooting.

Keep QuickBooks Desktop Updated Regularly

Keeping QuickBooks updated helps avoid such errors in the future.

Manual Update Instructions:

1. Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop > Update Now.

2. Check all available updates.

3. Click Get Updates.

4. Restart QuickBooks once the updates are installed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I fix Error 15240 without calling tech support?

Yes, many users fix this error using the steps above. If issues persist, contacting QuickBooks support is recommended.

Q2: Is Error 15240 limited to specific versions of QuickBooks?

No, it can occur across QuickBooks Pro, Premier, Enterprise, and Accountant editions.

Q3: Will this error delete or damage my payroll data?

No, it only affects updates—not your existing payroll information. Always keep a backup before troubleshooting.

Q4: Can firewall changes trigger this error?

Yes, recently installed firewalls or antivirus updates may restrict QuickBooks' internet access.

Q5: Is disabling UAC risky?

It’s safe if done temporarily for troubleshooting. Re-enable it after resolving the issue.

When Should You Contact QuickBooks Support?

If the above fixes don’t resolve the error, it’s best to reach out to QuickBooks Payroll Support. Technical specialists can provide more advanced solutions tailored to your setup.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Payroll Error 15240 can be a disruptive issue, especially when handling time-sensitive payroll tasks. Fortunately, most cases are caused by simple misconfigurations or permission issues that can be resolved using the methods outlined above.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can fix the problem and restore your payroll operations with confidence—without needing to pause your business.

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