QuickBooks Error the File Exists: Resolving Techniques to Easily Remove

The QuickBooks error the file exists error message can arise while running important QB functions, like the update process or paying liabilities. This error can prevent users from opening a specific file and can get triggered due to some recurring factors, like an outdated app or incorrect Windows firewall settings. If you are encountering the QuickBooks printing the file exists issue, you can follow the easy solutions given in this blog to address the error.

In case the troubleshooting steps given below seem too technical or challenging to undertake, you can reach out to our QB support team at 1.855.738.2784 to get professional guidance with the file access error in the app.

List of Some Common Reasons and Scenarios Leading to QuickBooks The File Exists Error

You might be getting the QuickBooks Windows error the file exists due to the main causes and possible factors mentioned below -

1. Your QuickBooks Desktop version might be old or outdated, which can cause compatibility issues while opening a specific file.
2. You do not have proper rights and permissions to open the QB files correctly, leading to file access issues.
3. The UAC settings might be misconfigured or enabled, which can cause control and access issues while running the QB app.
4. Windows firewall or anti-virus app settings might be incorrect or misconfigured, which can block QuickBooks from accessing the files.
5. The internet connection might be weak or unstable, and the unreliable network might lead to file opening issues in the QB app.

Recommended To Read: What is QuickBooks Error 2000

Resolution Methods to Address QuickBooks Error: The File You Specified Cannot Be Opened

QuickBooks 2020 error the file exists can be quickly eliminated by using the effective steps given below -

Method 1 - Run the Reboot File as a Windows Admin to Re-register QB Desktop

You can resolve the file access issues by running the reboot file as a Windows admin.

1. Exit QuickBooks and right-click the QB icon to choose the Properties button, followed by hitting the Open File Location option.
2. Find the Reboot.bat file and right-click it to choose the Run as Admin option, and once the black command prompt appears, scroll all the QB files and restart Windows.

Method 2 - Modify Windows File Permissions from the Security Tab of the File Explorer Window

The I am getting QuickBooks the file exists error can be tackled by editing the Windows file permissions.

1. Access the Start menu to launch Internet Explorer and locate QuickBooks Files to right-click the QBW32.EXE file.
2. Choose the Properties button and select Edit from the Security section to choose the Add button, followed by selecting Everyone.
3. Choose the Full Control option and hit Apply & OK to rerun QuickBooks and check the status of the file exists error message.

Conclusion

The resolution steps given above can help you terminate QuickBooks error the file exists message easily. In case these methods seem ineffective and the file access issues keep coming back, you can reach out to our QB technicians at 1.855.738.2784 to get the best guidance with the error.

Read Also: How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202