How to Resolve Error 15271 QuickBooks?

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QuickBooks Error 15271 Accounting
Apr 29, 2025

QuickBooks Payroll is an essential feature that helps simplify complex payroll tasks. Moreover, it also helps compute payroll taxes according to the latest tax table. However, when downloading the latest tax table update, users often encounter Error 15271 QuickBooks. This error may arise due to incorrect IE settings, firewall interruption, or wrong mapping of the shared download drive.

Every time QuickBooks Error 15271 appears, the error message displays, “The payroll update did not complete successfully. A file cannot be validated.” So, to regain access to the payroll feature, it is necessary to fix it using the solutions given in this post.

Explaining the Reasons That Lead to QuickBooks Desktop Error 15271

One possible cause of QuickBooks Desktop Error 15271 is improper Internet Explorer settings. This error can also be caused by any one of the following reasons.

Issues with the Settings of Windows Firewall-
Users might encounter QuickBooks Payroll Error 15271 due to the wrong settings of the Windows Firewall. As a result, it might prevent them from downloading the payroll updates in QuickBooks Desktop.

Problem with the Mapping of Shared Download Drive-
You might get stuck with this error if the Shared Download Drive isn’t mapped properly.

Unverified Digital Signature Certificate-
You are using the old or invalid digital signature certificate while running the latest payroll or QuickBooks desktop updates.

Incomplete File Use For Payroll Updates-
Sometimes, the issue is caused by running the missing file or component, which is essential for downloading the most up-to-date version of the payroll updates.

Disabled QuickBooks File Copy Service-
The issue may arise if the QuickBooks File Copy Service is disabled.

Inadequate Permissions to Get the Updates-
QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15271 may also appear on the screen if you don’t have enough permission to download the latest QuickBooks payroll or Desktop updates. Therefore, you must have the proper administrative rights to download the updates without any hassle.

Windows Registry Problems:-
In certain instances, Error 15271 QuickBooks can also be caused by damage to the Windows Registry files.

Here’s How to QuickBooks Payroll Error 15271 Smoothly

After gathering the information regarding the causes that trigger QuickBooks Payroll Error 15271, you must fix them. Herein, we have mentioned all the possible solutions you can use to fix the payroll issue without any hassle.

1. Use the Proper Administrative Rights to Get the Updates

You must follow the steps below to log in to QuickBooks and get payroll updates with the proper administrative rights.

  • Before starting the process, shut down your data files and the QuickBooks Desktop application.
  • After this, look for the QuickBooks Desktop icon, right-click on it and hit the Run As Administrator option.
  • Now, you must tap the Yes tab from the message, “Do you want to allow this program to make changes to your computer?”.
  • Finally, you must try downloading the QuickBooks updates again. Then, you must update the payroll service to the latest version.

2. Repair the QuickBooks Program With Quick Fix My Program

Sometimes, the damage or corruption in the QuickBooks program might give rise to the QuickBooks Desktop Error 15271. Therefore, you must run the Quick Fix My Program to resolve the issue. But, before running this tool, ensure that you have download and install the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub (1.6.0.8).

  • Running the Quick Fix My Program tool on your device will eventually close all the background processes interrupting QuickBooks.
  • The users must launch the QuickBooks Tool Hub you have recently installed on the workstation.
  • After that, tap on the Program Problems tab from the right panel.
  • Now, hit the Quick Fix My Program to resolve the QuickBooks Error Code 15271.

3. Start Using QB Install Diagnostic Tool To Fix Installation Issues

If you encounter any issues with the installation of QuickBooks Desktop or payroll update, you must run the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool. This utility tool will help configure the problems associated with common installation issues.

4. Consider Reinstalling the QuickBooks Desktop Application

If the above solutions don’t help you eliminate Error Code 15271 QuickBooks Desktop, try reinstalling the QuickBooks application again. Doing so will give the application a fresh start and remove the technical glitches present in it. Follow the instructions given below to complete the reinstallation process.

1. Uninstall the Previous QuickBooks Desktop

  • Before the reinstallation, it is necessary to keep the QuickBooks product key and service key handy.
  • After this, move on to the uninstallation of the previous QuickBooks Desktop version install.
  • Now, open the Run window, mention “Control Panel” in the search field and click the OK tab.
  • Next, you must opt for the Programs and Features or Uninstall a Program option, whichever is available.
  • Furthermore, pick the QuickBooks version that you no longer want and want to uninstall. Later, choose the Uninstall/Change, Remove tab and then click the Next tab.
  • If you still don’t get the option, first sign out and then log in again to Windows with the proper administrative rights.

2. Reinstallation of the QuickBooks Program

  • After the successful uninstallation of the QuickBooks Desktop, download the latest version available.
  • Now, you must launch the downloaded setup file that says “QuickBooks.exe.
  • Next, pick any one of the installation types to move further with the QuickBooks Desktop installation.
    • Express Install—If you choose this option, it will eventually save all your preferences and also install your previous QuickBooks version.
      • Custom and Network Options—By clicking on this option, you can install the new version in a different location and keep the older versions installed. However, this option does not include your older version along with the new one.
  • When you are done making the necessary changes, tap on the Next option.
  • Furthermore, click the Install tab to install QuickBooks Desktop successfully.
  • Finally, click the Open QuickBooks tab when the installation process is complete.

5. Try Installing the New Digital Signature Certificate

The digital signature is used to verify the identity electronically, guaranteeing premium security and allowing the updates to run smoothly. However, if the digital signature certificate you are using is not verified, it might hinder the payroll update process and result in QuickBooks Error 15271. So, to resolve the issue, you must get a new version of the Digital Signature Certificate with the below steps.

  • In the initial stage, access the location by accessing the C: drive > Program Files > Intuit and then the QuickBooks.
  • After this, right-click on the QBW32.exe file and opt for the Properties tab.
  • Next, you must hit the Digital Signatures tab and verify that Intuit is chosen from the signature list.
  • Now, click the Details tab and then hit the View Certificates option from the Digital Signature Details screen.
  • Furthermore, choose the Install Certificates option from the upcoming Certificate window.
  • Afterwards, select the Next tab unless you see the Finish tab and then click the Finish option.
  • Finally, relaunch your computer and then try to download the updates again.

6. Turn On the Intuit File Copy Services

To enable the Intuit File Copy Services, you must follow the steps below.

  • Primarily, open the Run window, insert “COMPMGMT.MSC” and hit the OK tab.
  • As a result, it will bring you to the Computer Management window.
  • After that, choose the Services and Applications and then opt for the Services tab.
  • Next, drag down to the middle of the screen and double-tap on the Intuit QuickBooks FCS.
  • Now, pick the Startup Type, click the Manual tab and then choose the Apply tab.
  • Conclude the process by hitting the OK tab for confirmation.

After this, you must refresh the QuickBooks connection by putting the validation on the payroll’s service key. Perform the step-by-step instructions below to validate the service key.

  • Initially, the users must opt for the QuickBooks Employee menu from the top of the menu bar.
  • Afterwards, you have to select the Activate Service key to move further.
  • Thereon, highlight the payroll that you use beneath the Service Keys section. Later on, you must click on the Edit menu.
  • Finally, pick the Finish option to wind up with the entire process.

7. Check that the Mapping of Shared Download Drive is Done properly

Incorrect mapping of the shared download drive might prevent you from accessing the file while updating the program. Proper mapping of the shared download drive is necessary to rectify the issue. To do that, you must do as per the steps written below.

  • Initially, press the Windows logo key, add “This PC” in the search panel and hit the Enter key.
  • After this, tap on the “This PC” tab from the search results and go with the More represented by (…) icon. Then, you must hover your cursor over the Map Network Drive option.
  • Now, from the drive, you must pick the letter you want to name the new drive.
  • Furthermore, mention the folder path you want to map. Otherwise, you can only list the path of your computer (server). Later on, go with the Browse tab and start searching for the folder.
  • Afterwards, choose the Reconnect at sign-in tab. With this, it will give the surety that the drive is mapped every time you log in to the computer.
  • At last, move to the Finish tab to complete the process.

8. Download & Install the Latest Version of QuickBooks

Using the incompatible version of the QuickBooks Desktop may also interrupt you while getting the latest payroll updates. So, to resolve the issue, downloading the latest version available for the QuickBooks Desktop application is mandatory.

9. Do the Proper Configuration of Windows Firewall

The Windows Firewall often blocks access to software or websites that it considers a threat. However, an incorrect application setting might block QuickBooks or other third-party apps from downloading payroll updates. So, to rectify the issue, it is essential to configure the Windows Firewall settings accurately. Thus, it ensures that you can download updates without any issues.

10. Make Changes to the System Registry

The damages in the system registry can be configured by modifying the settings. To do so, you must follow the step-by-step instructions below.

  • Initially, launch the Start menu and mention “CMD” in the search console.
  • As a result, the Command Prompt window will open on your computer screen.
  • After this, it is necessary to press the Ctrl and Shift keys together and then hit the Enter key.
  • You will get the Permission Dialog box on your computer screen. Hit the Yes tab from there.
  • Consequently, you will get a black color box along with the twinkling cursor.
  • Now, mention “regedit” in the window and hit Enter.
  • Thereon, start searching for the Error 15271 related file to generate the registry editor’s backup.
  • Next, you must switch to the Export option from the File menu and pick the folder to save the data backup.
  • Afterwards, it is essential to choose the file from the export range branch.

Conclusion!!

By reading this post, we hope that you have a clear picture of what causes Error 15271 QuickBooks and how to fix it. As a result, it will help you get the latest updates of the QuickBooks payroll or Desktop again without any interference. Furthermore, if you still need any additional help, then get in touch with our QB professionals, and they will show you the right path.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

QuickBooks error 15271 often pops up on the screen while getting payroll or QuickBooks Desktop updates. This issue is usually experienced when a file isn’t validated or downloaded properly because of incomplete installation.

Keep the following points in mind to reduce the chances of getting the QuickBooks Error Code 15271.

  • Updating the QuickBooks Desktop to the most currently launched version is necessary.
  • Secondly, you must verify that you generate the backups of the data file to safeguard the data.
  • Another important thing is to ensure that you remain connected with a stable internet connection.
  • You must erase the junk and spam files from your desktop to free up space in the system for QuickBooks updates.

There are numerous actions that require administrative rights to run. Otherwise, it might create discrepancies when installing the updates, resulting in QuickBooks Error 15271. So, to prevent the issues, make sure that you log in as an admin in QuickBooks.

No, getting the QuickBooks Error Code 15271 while getting payroll updates won’t affect your data. However, regularly generating a backup copy of the data file is suggested to safeguard your data from loss.

At times, users might encounter issues while updating QuickBooks due to the interference of the Windows firewall, which blocks you from installing updates.