Dealing with QuickBooks error PS038 and wondering how to fix it? This blog can help you throughout the troubleshooting process. First, before resolving any issues, we should know why and how it occurs. So, the reasons that lead you to this issue are faulty QB installation, unstable internet connection, inactive payroll subscription, and many more. Also, the message that is prompted at this moment is:


“You’ve retrieved the latest payroll update and validated your Payroll subscription. We strongly recommend that you go online again before mm/dd/yyyy. [PS038].”


After knowing so much about the issue, it has become easy for you to resolve it. So, let’s take a deep dive into the page and have a look at each step carefully.


Fixing payroll-related issues can be complicated for some users, especially for those who lack IT skills. Thus, don’t risk your data and directly contact a professional for guidance. Give a ring to 1-855-888-3080 to talk.

Main Contributors That Lead to QB Payroll Error PS038

Let’s know the reasons that might be responsible for the occurrence of QuickBooks Payroll error PS038.


  • It could be due to the outdated QB version.
  • You may fall into this error due to a faulty or incomplete QB installation.
  • This issue can take place due to firewall or antivirus software restrictions.
  • One reason that can trigger this error is the wrong system date and time.
  • It might get triggered by an unstable internet connection.
  • The reason for facing this problem can be that your payroll is not active.

Steps You Must Follow to Get Over QuickBooks Error PS038

If you have read the factors that might be responsible for causing error PS038, let’s move towards the solutions and see what can be done to resolve it.

Step 1: Install the latest QB Desktop update

To resolve any QB-related issue, first check whether it's due to an outdated version. So, get your software updated.


Recommended to read: How to resolve QuickBooks error 2277?

Step 2: Create a backup of your company data

Before you perform any troubleshooting methods, don’t forget to create a backup of your company file, so that in case of any mishaps, you don’t have to worry about your data.

Step 3: Send payroll or usage data

  • Go to the Employees tab.
  • Tap on the Payroll Service.
  • Click on the Send Usage Data option.
  • If you don’t get this option on your screen, move to the next step.
  • Choose Send Payroll Data.
  • Head to the Send/Receive Payroll Data window.
  • Tap on the Send All option.
  • Enter Payroll Service PIN, and if the paycheck is sent successfully, you must update payroll.
  • If it was unsuccessful, contact a professional.
  • If you encounter any error while sending a paycheck, jump to the next step.

Step 4: Identify the stuck paychecks

  • Go to the Edit option.
  • Choose Find and move to the Advanced tab.
  • Click on the Filter option.
  • Choose the Detail Level in the Filter list.
  • Pick Summary Only.
  • Hover over the Filter list.
  • Choose the Online Status option.
  • Pick Online to Send.
  • Tap Find.
  • There, you can see the paychecks that were not sent to Intuit.
  • Head to the Find window.
  • Note down the Number of matches.

Step 5: Verify and Rebuild data

  • Go to the Find window.
  • Choose the Data Verification Tool.
  • Here, you will see the paychecks that were not sent or are waiting to be sent.
  • Then, rebuild your data.
  • Update payroll.

Last Words

In this blog, we have clearly mentioned the reasons that can cause QuickBooks error PS038. Along with the reasons, we have also explained simple steps to fix it. Hopefully, you were able to resolve it. In case you get stuck between resolutions, don’t panic and simply give a ring to 1-855-888-3080 to consult with an expert.


You may read also: Quick Tricks To Kick Off QuickBooks Out-of-Memory Error