Fix "Another customer, supplier, or employee is already using this name" error message in QuickBooks Online

If you see the error 'Something’s not quite right. Another customer, supplier, or employee is already using this name. Please use a different name.', this is usually caused by the following:

• Importing data from QuickBooks Desktop or turning on payroll after adding employees in QuickBooks Online.
• The customer, supplier, or employee name you're trying to add or import already exists in QuickBooks Online.

Here is how to fix this error:

Step 1: Find the duplicate supplier, employee, or customer

Search for a duplicate name of the supplier, employee, or customer you’re trying to add in QuickBooks Online.

1. Select + New, then select Cheque.
2. In the Payee▼ dropdown, enter the name you’re trying to add.
3. Duplicate names appear on the list, and you’ll know if they’re added as a supplier, employee, or customer.

Step 2: Update the employee, supplier, or customer info

After finding the duplicate name, you can either change the name or make the profile inactive if it is no longer in use.

1. Depending on what you need to edit, do one of the following:
   • Employees: Go to Payroll and select Employees (Take me there).
   • Suppliers: Go to Expenses and select Suppliers (Take me there).
   • Customers: Go to Sales and select Customers (Take me there). 
2. Find and select the duplicate name and do one of the following:
   • Edit the employee, supplier, or customer name. For example, add a middle initial or a [1] at the end.
   • If the profile you’re editing is no longer active or in use, make it inactive. 

Step 3: Add the employee, supplier, or customer again

Now you can try to add your employee, supplier, or customer again. If you're still getting the error, reach out to our support team for assistance.