You have exceeded the maximum number of users who can access the company at one time

I can see that you did everything you could to fix the issue, @passworddude, and I appreciate you for that. Let me share additional troubleshooting steps to help you fix the error and access the QBW file in QuickBooks Accountant.

There are possible reasons why the error occurs. It could be one of the following info listed below:

• More workstations are open than the number of licenses you have purchased.
• A log file is stuck and your workstations need to be rebooted.
• A file used to verify licenses is damaged.
• The QuickBooks Desktop Point of Sale installation is damaged.
• A firewall or third-party internet security is blocking your client workstation from the server.

To rectify this, we can perform some solutions. I see you're done syncing license data online, but I want to ensure you've tried all the necessary steps. First, verify the number of licensed users and sync license data online. Here's how:
 

1. Go to the Help menu, then Manage My License.
2. Select Sync license data online, then tap OK.
3. Follow step 1 then select Buy Additional User License.
4. Verify the number of Licensed Users.

If the number of licensed users is correct, you're on the right track to close the workstations. If closing the program doesn't free up the licenses, reboot all workstations. If rebooting all workstations doesn't fix the issue, proceed to Solution 3. Clear the contents of the Entitlement Data folder outlined in this article: You have exceeded the maximum number of users who can access the company at one time.  You can continue to steps 4, 5, and 6 if the error remains.

I've also added some of our articles to help you check your multi-user setup as well as configuring your firewall:

• Set up and install a multi-user network for QuickBooks Desktop
• Set up firewall and security settings for QuickBooks Desktop

Keep me posted about the result. If you have other concerns accessing the QBW file in QuickBooks Accountant, leave a reply below and I'll provide the necessary help.

Hi @Nicole_N ,

Appreciate the reply.

I don't see the Program Data folder at my end so can't proceed further:

1. Navigate to the location: C:\Program Data\Intuit\Entitlement Client\XX (where XX is the highest number version you see)

Thanks for your response, @passworddude.

I want to clarify the steps to fix the error message you've encountered while opening your QuickBooks Desktop.

I appreciate you for following along the procedure given by my colleague above. Since you have QBDT Accountant version 23.0, please ensure that you reboot your system and then sync your license online, as this error usually occurs when multiple users log in to the QBDT.

You can follow the steps below: 

1. Go to the Help menu.
2. Select Manage My License, then Sync License Data Online.

If the same happens, don't hesitate to contact our Customer Care Support Team to investigate this issue further.

In addition, you might want to read this helpful article if you want to learn about the limits of access in QBDT's single-user and multi-user modes: Features available and tasks you can perform in single or multi-user mode.

Drop by this thread again if you have concerns about opening your QBDT. I'd be glad to assist you further. Take care always.

Hi @Carneil_C  - appreciate the reply but I have done online sync but no luck

Happy New Year and Thank you!!

Happy Holidays, @passworddude.

It's great to hear that my colleague's answer has resolved your issue.

Please know that if you have other concerns, you can always post them here in this forum. Have a great holiday ahead.