You may encounter a QuickBooks Desktop compile error in a hidden module while exporting your reports to MS Excel. The message that appears on the screen is:


“Compile error in hidden module: UpdateReports.

This error commonly occurs when code is incompatible with the version, platform, or architecture of this application. Click ‘Help’ for information on how to correct this error.”


The key factors that might be causing it are corrupted data and the company file, a malfunctioning file industry, and damaged MS Office. Additionally, it gets triggered when MS Excel and QuickBooks are outdated. Get deeper into the page, where you will find some resolutions to this error.


If you don't want to take a risk and prefer consulting a professional, give a call to 1-855-888-3080 and get connected with the QB expert via phone.

Understand the Causes Behind QBDT Compile Error in Hidden Module

The following are some reasons behind the QuickBooks compile error in the hidden module. Let's uncover them one by one:

  • The primary reason behind such an issue can be a damaged or corrupted company file.
  • It can also occur due to outdated QuickBooks and MS Excel.
  • The error has occurred due to the setup of the anti-virus application in the system, which is preventing the transfer of client-ready reports.

Resolutions for QuickBooks Desktop Compile Error in Hidden Module

Let's dive into the section to explore the solution that can be helpful in overcoming the hidden module error. See what the methods include:

Method 1: Remove incompatible modules from MS Excel

  • Open the MS Excel application.
  • Open the VBA Editor by pressing ALT+F11.
  • Hover over the Basic file Editor.
  • Choose the Tools option.
  • Scroll down the list and look for the references in the list and make your choice.
  • Delete the module that is marked or incompatible.
  • Adjust the status of the module.
  • Lastly, restart your computer.

Recommended to read: How to Fix QuickBooks error code 12029 ?

Method 2: Repair the MS Office installation

  • Head to the Start menu.
  • Search for the Control Panel and open it.
  • Choose Microsoft Office.
  • Click on the Change option.
  • Choose Repair from the options available.
  • You can restart your computer after the repair process ends.

Method 3: Register the DLL files on the system again

  • Press the Win+R key to launch the Run window.
  • Now, in the search space, write regsvr32.exe /u C:\Windows\System32\MSCOMCTL.OCX
  • Click Enter.
  • In the path, regsvr32.exe C:\Windows\System32\MSCOMCTL.OCX.
  • Hit Enter again.
  • At last, restart your computer and see if the error still persists.

Method 4: Turn off the MS Office Add-ons

  • Head to the Start menu.
  • Open the MS Office.
  • Go to the File tab.
  • Choose Options.
  • Click on the Add-Ons tab.
  • Click on the Com Add-ons option from the Manage dropdown.
  • Choose Go & double check.
  • Pick OK.
  • Move ahead and choose Disable to delete corrupted or damaged add-ons.
  • At last, you are required to restart the MS Office to save or apply the changes.

Wrapping It Up

In the blog, we thoroughly discussed the reasons behind the QuickBooks Desktop compile error in hidden module. Moreover, we have covered some practical solutions to overcome this. If you are still confused about what to do, give a call to 1-855-888-3080 and talk to an expert to get it fixed.


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