Cannot activate payroll in sample file

QuickBooks Desktop lets you do payroll manually, LSheram. Let me help you resolve this so you can use the payroll feature.

We'll have to delete the Paysub.ini file. This is one of the application files. Once it's damaged, you're unable to turn on the preference. Also, this lets you validate your account now and then.

I'll guide you on how to delete it:

1. Display hidden files or folders. 
2. In the Search field, type Paysub.ini.
3. Once you see the Paysub.ini file, right-click, then select Delete.
4. Repeat the same steps until all Paysub.ini files are deleted. 

Once done, try to set up manual payroll again.

Feel free to get back to this thread if you need anything else. We're just one comment away. Take care!

Hello! Thanks so much for getting back to me. Unfortunately I was unable to find any paysub.ini files. I ran a search through my entire drive as well as where I saved the files and where quickbooksis installed. The message is gives me when I search in quickbooks for the payroll center is "this operation is not available because a Quickbooks feature, known to me as CDS_payroll.menustateManual, is not available right now."

Hello! Thanks so much for getting back to me. Unfortunately I was unable to find any paysub.ini files. I ran a search through my entire drive as well as where I saved the files and where quickbooks
is installed. The message is gives me when I search in quickbooks for the payroll center is "this operation is not available because a Quickbooks feature, known to me as CDS_payroll.menustateManual, is not available right now."

Thanks for your prompt reply, @LSheram. I'll guide you on finding the Paysub.ini file.

It could be that the file is hidden around in your computer that's why you're unable to locate it.

Here's how to display the Paysub.ini file:

1. Open File Explorer by selecting the Folder icon on your desktop.
2. Select the View tab.
3. Click Hidden Items.

Then, search for the Paysub.ini file:

1. Press the Windows+E key to open Windows Explorer.
2. Select the Search box by pressing the Ctrl+K key.
3. Type in *.ini., then your search results will display.

Furthermore, I'd suggest you get the latest payroll updates to make sure you have the newest payroll tax table and stay updated.

Let me know if you have other concerns or need anything else. I'm always around to help.

Hello! I have attached confirmation that paysub.ini does not seem to exist. I tried to follow the steps to update payroll but I received the same error that payroll is unavailable, so I could not get as far as selecting "get payroll updates."

I appreciate you for getting back in here, @LSheram. I'll be glad to provide some insights about activating payroll in QuickBooks.

Since you've already tried all the necessary steps in activating payroll, I suggest contacting our payroll support team. This way, they can access your account in a secure environment and help you with locating the Paysub.ini file. 

Here's how:

1. Open your QuickBooks.
2. Select the Help menu, then choose QuickBooks Desktop Help.
   
   
3. Click Contact Us.
   
   
4. Provide a brief description of your issue, then select Let's talk.
5. Lastly, choose a way to connect with us.

Please also know that our support service is open Monday to Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM. 

In addition to that, let me share this link to help you in the process of activating QuickBooks Desktop Payroll. It also includes some articles on how you can do payroll processes.

You can drop by again if you need further help in activating payroll in QuickBooks. I'm here to help in any way I can. Take care and have a nice weekend.

@LSheram 

RE: Cannot activate payroll in sample file

Yes, that is correct. You cannot activate a payroll subscription in a sample file.

However, you can use the payroll feature - play with it - in any case.  The sample files include sample employees and paychecks and you can set up deductions and run payroll in the sample companies without changing any preferences or activating a payroll service.  I don't think taxes will calculate, but also that's probably not needed in your case.