Fix “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” Error in QuickBooks (Fast Guide 2026)

The “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” error in QuickBooks can be frustrating, especially when you need employee payroll details urgently. This error typically appears while opening payroll summaries, employee paychecks, tax forms, or running payroll reports. If you’re experiencing the message:

• We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info

• We Weren’t Able to Show QB Payroll Info

• We Weren’t Able to Show QuickBooks Payroll Info

—then you're in the right place. This guide explains why the issue happens and how you can fix it quickly without interrupting your payroll process.

Quick steps to fix the “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” error in QuickBooks. Resolve payroll issues fast. Call +1-866-500-0076 for expert help.

What Causes the “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” Error?

This QuickBooks payroll display issue can happen due to several reasons:

1. Outdated QuickBooks Desktop or Payroll Tax Table

Old builds and expired tax tables create compatibility issues.

2. Damaged Company Data

Payroll data can fail to load if the company file (.QBW) contains errors.

3. Missing or Corrupted Payroll Components

Incomplete payroll setup or broken payroll folders cause data loading failures.

4. Incorrect Internet & Security Settings

Firewall or TLS misconfigurations block payroll data from syncing.

5. Payroll Subscription Not Active

If your payroll subscription expires, QuickBooks will not display payroll data.

How to Fix “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” Error Quickly

Below are the most effective solutions to resolve the error permanently.

1. Update QuickBooks Desktop & Payroll Tax Table

Outdated software is the #1 reason behind the We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info message.

Steps:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop

2. Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop

3. Click Update Now

4. Restart QuickBooks

5. Then go to Employees > Get Payroll Updates

6. Select Download Entire Payroll Update

Try reopening the payroll report.

2. Run QuickBooks Tool Hub (Fix Data Damage)

Damaged company data triggers the We Weren’t Able to Show QB Payroll Info error.

Steps:

1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub (latest version)

2. Open it and go to Company File Issues

3. Run QuickBooks File Doctor

4. Let it repair corrupt payroll files

Restart QuickBooks and access payroll again.

3. Rebuild Payroll Data Manually

If error continues, rebuilding data helps refresh payroll components.

Steps:

1. Go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data

2. Follow on-screen prompts

3. Once done → File > Utilities > Verify Data

   
   

This eliminates minor corruption issues affecting payroll display.

4. Correct Your Security & Internet Settings

Improper TLS or firewall settings block payroll data, triggering the We Weren’t Able to Show QuickBooks Payroll Info error.

Ensure the following:

• Enable TLS 1.2

• Add QuickBooks ports to firewall

• Allow QuickBooks through antivirus

• Use Internet Explorer default settings (for legacy systems)

  
  

5. Check Payroll Subscription Status

A paused, expired, or inactive subscription can restrict payroll data.

Steps:

• Open QuickBooks Desktop

• Go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information

• Verify subscription status

• Reactivate if needed

  
  

If subscription shows active but payroll won’t load, call +1-866-500-0076 for support.

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Advanced Fix: Rename Payroll Folder

A corrupted payroll folder may cause QuickBooks to fail when loading payroll reports.

Steps:

1. Close QuickBooks

2. Open C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks\Components\Payroll

3. Rename folder to Payroll.old

4. Restart QuickBooks

5. Update payroll again

   
   

This forces QuickBooks to recreate fresh payroll components.

Prevent the Error from Returning

To avoid future interruptions:

• Always update QuickBooks monthly

• Keep your payroll subscription active

• Perform regular data backups

• Verify data weekly

• Maintain stable internet & TLS settings

  
  

Consistent maintenance ensures smooth payroll operations year-round.

FAQs

1. Why does QuickBooks show the “We Weren’t Able to Show Payroll Info” message?

It usually appears due to outdated software, corrupted payroll data, damaged company file, or internet security restrictions.

2. Will updating the payroll tax table fix the issue?

Yes, in most cases updating the tax table resolves compatibility errors affecting payroll reports.

3. Is my company file damaged if payroll info won’t load?

Possibly. Use QuickBooks Tool Hub → File Doctor to check and repair damage.

4. Can I still run payroll with this error?

You can—but payroll reports and summaries may not display correctly until the issue is fixed.

5. Who can fix this error quickly?

Certified QuickBooks payroll experts can resolve deeper file issues. Call +1-866-500-0076 for immediate help.

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