QuickBooks error PS034 commonly occurs when updating QB Payroll, as do other errors in the PSXXX series. This error indicates problems with the QB Payroll; moreover, it enables you to create payroll-related files and reports. However, it also requires updates to address the problems and glitches. While attempting to download these payroll-related updates, an error message may appear on your screen, stating “QuickBooks Payroll Error PS034.”
There are several key prerequisites and indicators that need to be considered. Make sure that the payroll subscription is active, your computer meets the required specifications, and the network connection is stable.
In this complete blog, we will discuss the potential causes of this error that may occur in your QuickBooks Payroll. Moreover, we will discuss troubleshooting methods for this error.
Are you still facing a payroll update-related problem in your QuickBooks Desktop? Dial +1(855)-955-1942 to speak with our QB expert for a free consultation.
Possible Reasons Behind the QuickBooks Error PS034
When downloading or updating QuickBooks Payroll, you may encounter the QuickBooks error PS034. Here is the list of numbers that can lead to this issue.
- If the internet connection settings are wrong.
- The firewall is blocking QuickBooks operations from performing appropriately.
- When the CPS folder contains any damaged files, it can trigger this error.
- If the payroll subscription has expired or is inactive, this problem can be caused in the QB payroll table.
- Misconfigured UAC settings may be the reason why this error is affecting your work.
- If the QuickBooks application is damaged or corrupted during the installation.
After learning about the possible reasons why this error can stop you from updating the payroll, let’s move forward and learn how to troubleshoot this problem.
Factors to Ensure Before Troubleshooting Payroll Error PS034 in QB
You must first address certain factors before we proceed with troubleshooting methods for QuickBooks error PS034. Let’s discuss every aspect that needs verification.
- Check that the QuickBooks version is compatible with the Windows operating system.
- Verify that the updated payroll tax table on your system has been downloaded.
- You need to verify that the information added to the account is correct and up-to-date.
- You should restart your computer and the QuickBooks application before trying any troubleshooting method.
- Ensure that User Account Control (UAC) is given access to.
- Turn off the antivirus software that is blocking QuickBooks from running its operations.
- Eliminate all the background applications that are interfering with QuickBooks’ performance.
Before moving to resolve this error, verify all the factors given above. It will help you to avoid any further inconveniences.
Step-by-Step Guide to Solve QuickBooks Error PS034
Once you have reviewed the possible reasons for payroll error PS034, let’s examine the troubleshooting methods for this error.
Solution 1: Restart the System
A complete system reboot can often resolve many errors without requiring any troubleshooting methods. This solution can help you fix the QuickBooks error PS034 by following these steps.
- Access your QuickBooks Account.
- Restart the system and the database server.
- After restarting, open QBDT and log in to your account.
- You should close all the third-party applications that are running in the background.
After performing these methods, the error code PS034, which is related to payroll updates, will be resolved.
Solution 2: Verify your Payroll Service Subscription
An inactive or outdated subscription to payroll can also lead to QuickBooks error PS034, which requires checking and verifying the subscription status. Here are the following steps to check the payroll status.
- First, close all running company files and restart your system.
- Launch the QuickBooks Desktop and move to the Employees tab.

- Then, select My Payroll Service and click Manage Service Key.
- Verify the Service Name and Status, ensuring they are correct, and confirm the status is active.
- Choose Edit and verify the service key number. If you see it is entered incorrectly, then enter the correct one.
- Lastly, click Next, uncheck the box next to “Open Payroll Setup,” and then select Finish.
Even after verifying if you still face the QuickBooks error PS034, try changing the UAC settings as explained below.
Solution 3: Change the UAC Settings
To safeguard your computer from external internet threats that may be caused by downloading files from the internet, User Account Control (UAC) settings are used. Here are the steps to help you disable the UAC settings and resolve this issue.
- Click on the Windows and search for Control Panel.
- Press Enter, and you’ll see a pop-up window on your screen.
- Choose the User Accounts option.
- Move on to choose “Change user account control settings,” then tap Yes.
- Go through the choices and select Never Notify, which will help you turn off the UAC.
- Click OK to save the changes.
Disabling the UAC settings helps resolve this error and improve efficiency. Update the tax table, and if you are still experiencing the QuickBooks error PS034, try the solution below.
Solution 4: Rename the CPS Folder
The QuickBooks error PS034 can occur due to a damaged CPS folder. Renaming the folder can resolve the issue and fix the bugs associated with this error.
- Eliminate the QuickBooks application if it is running.
- Tap Windows + E on the keyboard to access the File Explorer.
- Now, tap on the ‘This PC’ option and access the C: drive.
- Search for the Program Files (x86) folder under the Program Files folder.
- Head over to the Intuit folder and open the QB folder to check for the version of QuickBooks.
- Now, open the Components folder and select the Payroll folder.
- You can rename the CPS folder by right-clicking on it and selecting the “Rename” option.
- Include the .old extension in the folder name.
- Create a new CPS folder on the desktop.
- Now, copy and paste the files with the .old extension into the new folder.
Now, check whether you can update the payroll. If not, try to move to the next step.
Solution 5: Remove the Duplicate Copies of QuickBooks Desktop
If more than one version of QuickBooks is installed on your system, it not only creates confusion but also causes errors when creating the QuickBooks Desktop application. Below are the steps to help you resolve QuickBooks error PS034 by deleting the duplicate version of QuickBooks.
- Tap the Windows + R keys to access the Run command.
- Search for Control Panel and hit OK.
- Tap the Programs and Features tab and select the Uninstall a Program option.
- Look for the duplicate version of QuickBooks Desktop and right-click on it, then select the Uninstall/Change option.
Once the duplicate file is deleted, try updating the payroll in your QuickBooks Desktop. If this error persists, you can refer to the next solution.
Solution 6: Launch Quick Fix My Program
The QuickBooks Tool Hub can help fix some common and frequent errors that occur in QB Desktop. Additionally, this tool can help resolve the error code PS034. Here’s how.
- Launch the default web browser and search the Intuit site to download the QB Tool Hub.
- After completing the download, install the software by agreeing to the terms and conditions.
- Launch the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

- Under the Program Problems, select the Quick Fix my Program option.
Now, wait for the program to run and fix your issue. This might take some time. After completing it, check whether the QuickBooks error PS034 has been solved or not. If not, try the following method instead.
Solution 7: Update the QuickBooks Desktop
This issue may be bothering you if your QuickBooks Desktop is not updated or is not on the latest available version. To update the QB application, follow the guide.
- Move through to Control Panel > Programs and Features > Uninstall a Program and select QuickBooks.
- Allow the permission on the pop-up screen.
- Clean all the junk files and cache files in your system.
- Now, download the QuickBooks Desktop.
Updating QuickBooks Desktop can help you resolve this error; if not, try the following troubleshooting method.
Solution 8: Check your Internet Connection
Having a stable internet connection helps you maintain productivity, as fluctuations can affect your work progress. The following steps outline how to verify your Internet settings:
- Open your system’s default web browser and visit a secure website.
- Access your browser’s internet configuration settings by heading to the Settings tab.
- Check the tab and ensure the date and time are configured correctly in the system.
- Next, move to the web browser and select the Tools tab.
- Under the Advanced menu, click the Reset/Restore Default option.
- Tap Apply followed by OK.
The above steps will ensure that you check your internet & security connection settings in your browser. This will resolve the QuickBooks error PS034. If this doesn’t help, check for the minimum system requirements.
Solution 9: Verify the Minimum System Requirements
To resolve error code PS034, verify your system’s capabilities and configurations. Listed below are the minimum requirements for QuickBooks to run smoothly.
- RAM: Minimum 8 GB (recommended 16 GB)
- Processor: 2.4 GHz (Minimum)
- Driver: 4X DEV-ROM for physical CD
- Disk Space: 2.5 GB
- Resolution: 1280 X 1024 or higher if available.
- RAM (server): 8 GB for 1-5 users, 12 GB for 10 users, 16 GB for 15 users, and 20 GB+ if users are more than 20.
If you are having these requirements and still facing the PS034 error, this means the error is not related to the system requirements. Let’s move forward and restart the QuickBooks desktop.
Some Other PS0XX Error Codes in QuickBooks Desktop
When installing payroll tax table updates to your computer, you might come across an error with the code in PSXXX format, like that of PS034. Here are some common PS0XX errors in QuickBooks:
QuickBooks Error PS038 | Error Code PS036 |
Error Code PS033 | Error Message PS107 |
Error Code PS032 | Error Code PS101 |
Error PS077 | Error Code PS058 |
You can use similar methods as given above to troubleshoot these errors.
Conclusion
This extensive blog’s goal is to provide you with effective troubleshooting methods to resolve the QuickBooks error PS034. We recommend reviewing every aspect of the blog related to this issue to fix it. However, you may not be aware of some essential technical elements required to implement these solutions seamlessly. In that case, it is advisable to consult with an expert. For that, call us at +1(855)-955-1942. Our team of QB professionals will be happy to assist you further regarding this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
The QuickBooks error code PS034 indicates issues related to its payroll function. Some potential causes that can lead to QB error PS034 include corrupted or damaged files, slow network connection, and incorrect or invalid billing information. Misconfigured firewall settings and damaged files in the CPS folder can also trigger this issue. Additionally, incorrect UAC settings might be the real problem. Also, if your payroll subscription has expired or is inactive, it can interrupt ongoing processes in QB Payroll.
According to the causes, several steps can be taken to resolve the error PS034. The most basic thing to verify is whether the payroll subscription is active. You can check subscription details in the My Payroll Service within the QuickBooks software. Another method is to change the UAC settings of your computer. Additionally, try updating your QuickBooks Payroll, which may resolve the error. If this doesn’t work, you need to rename the QuickBooks folder.
To register the payroll service in QuickBooks Desktop, start by setting up the payroll tab. To do so, select the Payroll section from the task list. Next, add employees in the Payroll tab and choose company preferences from the Preferences tab, located in the Edit section. Then, check and verify that you have selected full payroll and import your data, including the W-4 form, direct deposit information, and paycheck details. With the help of these steps, you can easily register the payroll service in QBDT.