qb 2018 - only 3 employees allowed

This is based on the payroll subscription you have.  It won't change if you upgrade.  If you need more 5than three employees, you can upgrade your payroll subscription to one that allows unlimited employees (any but the one you have.)

thanks....can I do that online or do I have to call in/

Jumping in to answer your question about changing subscriptions, kiddofvegas.

You can do it from your Payroll Account Maintenance page. Here's how:

1. Go to the Employees menu, scroll-down to May Payroll Service, and then select Change Payroll Service Options.
2. A new browser window that displays your payroll options will open. Choose the option you want. For example, you can upgrade your QuickBooks Payroll service level. For more information, click Learn More next to one of the options. QuickBooks guides you through the process of changing your service.
3. Log in to your Intuit account.
4. Click Proceed to Checkout to proceed with the order.
5. Select or update a Payment method.
6. Enter the Card Security Code, then select Submit.
7. Select Continue, then Next.
8. Click Return to QuickBooks.

In case you can't log in or see the option above, you'll need to call in or reach out to our chat support team so they can do it for you. Here's how:

1. Go the Help menu and select QuickBooks Desktop Help.
2. Click Contact Us.
3. Let them know that you need make to change your payroll subscription.
4. Click Continue, then select the available options. 

Let me also share these articles about managing your payroll subscription for more details:

• View and update QuickBooks Desktop Payroll service account information
• QuickBooks Payroll Services and Features for QuickBooks Desktop

The Community is always here if you need anything else.