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tricounty1
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

I keep getting this error when trying to run payroll.
 "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Anyone elde having this issue? Do we know how to fix it?
16 Comments 16
Anonymous
Not applicable

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Thanks for getting in touch with us, tricounty1,

 

I want to make sure you're able to get past the error message you're getting when running payroll.

 

You'll normally get this error if an employee you're trying to pay has been made inactive in QuickBooks Online. To check for inactive employees that need to be reactivated, follow the steps below:


1. Select Workers from the left menu.

2. Choose Employees.
3. From the Employees List drop-down menu, select Inactive Employees.

 

However, if none of the employees you're processing payroll is inactive, I'd recommend getting in touch with our QuickBooks Online Care Support. There they can check what's causing this odd behavior and can provide additional workarounds to complete your work.

 

Here's how to contact us: https://payroll.intuit.com/support/contact/?infosrc=qs&service=64

 

That should point you on the right track. Please update me how this goes. I want to ensure your issue gets taken care of.

cday
Level 2

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Hi, did you ever figure this out?  I am getting the same message when I try and process payroll.  Employee and all appropriate payroll accounts are active.  I have been on the phone with QB Accountant for almost 2 hours total and they have no idea what is going on.

IamjuViel
QuickBooks Team

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Thanks for bringing this error prompt to my attention, @cday.

 

I'm here to help ensure you're able to successfully get the passed the error and process payroll. Let's get started.

 

You'll be prompted with the error when the system detects that the payroll account or payroll item you’re trying to use has been inactivated. To fix this, let's checked whether it is accidentally deleted or inactivated.

 

Here's how:

  1. Go to Accounting.
  2. Choose Chart of Accounts.
  3. Look for the account where your payroll expenses are mapped.
  4. If you can't locate it, click the Gear Icon above the Action column.
  5. Choose Include Inactive.
  6. Once more, locate the account associated with your payroll expenses.
  7. If is mark as Deleted or Inactive, click the Make Active option.

You can do the same for the troubleshooting for the payroll items listed on your account and other fields. Here are the steps to verify the status of each fields:

  • Employees:
    1. Go to Workers.
    2. Select Employees.
    3. Click the employees list drop-down.
    4. Choose Inactive Employees.
  • Customers:
    1. Click Sales.
    2. Choose Customers.
    3. Top right of the customers column, select the Gear icon.
    4. Under Other, select Include inactive.
  • Vendors:
    1. Select Expenses.
    2. Click the Gear Icon above the Action Column.
    3. Under Other, select Include inactive.
  • Items (Products/Services):
    1. Click Sales.
    2. Select Products and Services.
    3. Click the Funnel Icon right beside the Search box.
    4. In the Status drop-down, choose Inactive.
    5. Click Apply.
       

If the issue persists, I’d suggest contacting our Payroll Support Team. A payroll agent would be able to further check on the root cause of the error via secured remote access session.

 

Here’s how to contact us:

  1. Go to: https://help.quickbooks.intuit.com/en_US/contact. 
  2. Choose your QuickBooks Product
  3. Select Payroll
  4. Choose your type of Payroll Subscription
  5. Hit Payroll
  6. Click on the View Contact Info button to see the support number. 

Stay in touch to let me know how it works on your end. I'm always here to help you managing the different lists in your QuickBooks account. Have a great day ahead!

MaryF
Level 3

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Another thing you can check is Gear>Payroll Settings> Accounting Preferences

 

Check that the payroll expense:Wages and all of the other accounts listed are actually listed in the Chart of Accounts.

 

In my situation, they were all not listed in the Chart of Accounts and had to be recreated and then we had to choose those accounts again in Gear>Payroll Settings> Accounting Preferences

 

Hope this helps!

Jasdeep Malhotra
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

I am geting this error while getting invoice data.

this is my request url 'https://quickbooks.api.intuit.com/v3/company/9130351466218026/invoice/1001'

error:

Response =  <Response [400]>
Response Data =  {"Fault":{"Error":[{"Message":"Object Not Found","Detail":"Object Not Found : Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, custo
mers, items, vendors or employees.","code":"610","element":""}],"type":"ValidationFault"},"time":"2021-09-20T22:04:33.935-07:00"}
Success

this is my request url 'https://quickbooks.api.intuit.com/v3/company/9130351466218026/invoice/1001'

 

 

JoesemM
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Thanks for coming to the Community for help, @Jasdeep Malhotra.

 

I want to ask for more details about the issue you encounter when getting the invoice data. Did you use any third-party application when you process an invoice transaction? Additional information about this concern will help us look for the right solution in solving the problem.

 

In the meantime, let’s perform some basic troubleshooting steps to make sure the issue isn’t browser-related. Local internet cache files may be the reason for this unexpected behavior. 

 

Let’s start logging in to QuickBooks using a private window. Here’s how:

 

  • Safari: Command + Shift + N 
  • Google Chrome: CTRL + Shift + N
  • Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge: CTRL + Shift + P 

 

Once signed in, try to get the invoice data again. If you're able to view the invoice from there, let's clear the cache of your main browser. This helps remove its stored cache so it'll function efficiently.

 

Otherwise, I'd also recommend using different browsers. They'll provide you the best and most secure experience with QuickBooks. For more details, see this article: System Requirements For QuickBooks.

 

Once fixed, you can refer to the following articles on how to categorize and record invoice payment:

 

 

I'm also adding these links for more tips about handling your downloaded and manually added transactions together with reconciling accounts:

 

 

You can always tag me in your reply if you have other concerns or questions. I'm always here to help you in any way I can. Stay safe, @Jasdeep Malhotra.

Jasdeep Malhotra
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

 I think we are not on the same page. my question is related to QBonline  PYTHON API integration .  I am able to get companyinfo by my script . but while fetching invoice objects ,scripts shows below error:

Response =  <Response [400]>
Response Data =  {"Fault":{"Error":[{"Message":"Object Not Found","Detail":"Object Not Found : Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, custo
mers, items, vendors or employees.","code":"610","element":""}],"type":"ValidationFault"},"time":"2021-09-20T22:04:33.935-07:00"}Success

please give me some solution

MaryLandT
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Let me route you to the right support team that currently supports the API integration, Jasdeep Malhotra.

 

Customizing fields on your sales forms through Python API requires special handing from our Intuit Developer Team. 

 

I recommend seeking help through another forum. We call in Intuit Developer Forum. It's a place where different developers and coders help each other with app integrations and programming.

 

Here's how to get in touch with them:
 

  1. Go to this link: https://developer.intuit.com/.
  2. Scroll down, then click Contact us under the Intuit column.
  3. Click Ask A Question.
  4. Select your subscription.
  5. Sign in to your QBO account and follow on-screen instructions.

 

We currently have some changes with our sales forms in QuickBooks. You may visit this link to check out the details about it: Learn how the new estimates and invoices in QuickBooks Online can help your business.

 

Let me know if there's anything else you need by commenting below. I'll be right here whenever you have more questions about the error you're getting.

Jasdeep Malhotra
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Dear  MaryLandT,

Thanks for your support and guidance.

please let me know that  I  can get invoice fields through API in try plan or  I have to use subscription plan account?. 

Thankyou.

JonpriL
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Let me share insights about working with API integration, @Jasdeep Malhotra.

 

As mentioned by my colleague, we're unable to determine the exact features to utilize or the functions to use while the API application is integrated. It's best to contact our Developers Team and start a discussion as outlined by the steps above.

 

You may also check this reference with the topics and the latest updates released by our team: Intuit Developer Community Blog.

 

If you have any other questions about QuickBooks Tasks and navigations, please let me know in the comments below. I'll be here to lend a helping hand. Have a good one!

evelynsovadmin
Level 3

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

I get this red error message frequently when working in all my registers. It doesn't seem to have any rhyme or reason to it, when I'm marking a transaction as (c) and I've been working in that register without making any changes but suddenly get the red error and have to stop and refresh the window to get rid of the error and keep going. This is definitely a bug that should be remedied!

Mark_R
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Thank you for raising your issue here in the Community, @evelynsovadmin.

 

I want to make sure this error gets fixed so you can work with QuickBooks Online (QBO) seamlessly.

 

Usually, the error only occurs when an employee, vendor, customer, or account has been made inactive in QBO. Since it appears even you're not doing something, it may be a browser data issue. There are times that the browser stores frequently accessed data, thus causing QBO to act weirdly. To verify, let's log in to your QBO account using a private browser. To do so, press this shortcut key on your keyboard:

 

  • Google Chrome: Ctrl Shift N
  • Mozilla Firefox: Ctrl Shift P
  • Safari: Command Option P

 

If this works, it means that you need to clear the browser's cache so the system can start fresh. If you get the same result while using a private browser, I recommend switching to a different one.

 

You might also want to run reports in QuickBooks Online. This will help you review all your transactions on specific accounts.

 

Should you need any assistance getting your company files up and running, I'm available here to help any time! Wishing you all the best, @evelynsovadmin.

krphoto13
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Hello- I am getting this error when using the search function at the top right (magnifying glass) to locate a vendor or customer. What is happening is two options for a vendor/customer is popping up, even though there is no duplication. If I click one, I get the error message, if I click the other one I get the right data. This is driving me crazy and no one has been able to help fix the problem. I have ensured all things are active, cleared my cache, etc, activated old items and basically blown everything up trying o solve this. Nothing is helping resolve this issue and QB support via phone has not been helpful either. Please can someone help?? Thank you!

DivinaMercy_N
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Hello there, @krphoto13. Thanks for posting here. I got your back to ensure you'll be able to get rid of that error and get back to the working order.

 

I can see that you did everything you could. I know how hard you tried here. No worries, I'm here to provide additional steps to fix the issue. 

 

Let's start with checking your Audit log to verify any actions made to that particular name on your list. In this process, you'll have to manually look through each line item in the report to find who and when the field was changed. Here's how:

 

  1. In your QuickBooks Online (QBO) account and select the Gear icon.
  2. Next, click the Audit Log.
  3. Then, select the Filter menu located at the top left of the page.
  4. Set the correct date range the last time you entered a transaction.
  5. You can also select a user who has the most interaction in the fields that need investigating.

 

For your reference, please check this article: Use the audit log in QuickBooks Online.

 

You'll also want to run reports to review and determine if there are no duplicates. You can run the Customer Contact List to see the customer's list and the Vendor Contact List to view all the vendors' names. I'll guide you on how:

 

  1. In your QBO account, go to the Reports menu.
  2. Then, in the search bar, type Customer Contact List (Vendor Contact List for vendors) and click the report to open.
  3. From there, select Customize and click Filter.
  4. Check the Deleted box and select Deleted from the drop-down menu.
  5. Once done, select Run Report.

 

Once done, use the Search function again and type the name in question. Check to see if the error still shows. 

 

If the issue persists, I highly recommend reaching out to our phone support team again to further investigate the problem. They can create an investigation case for this if necessary.

 

Let me know how the steps go. I'd like to know updates about the process of fixing the error. If you have follow-up questions about the instructions above, please post a comment below. I'm just around the corner to help and lend a hand. Keep safe and have a good day. 

Kevin Choi
Level 1

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

I am new with online payroll.

I did all the suggestions to delete an employee.

Still I cannot delete or inactivate.

Please help

Kevin

 

QueenC
Moderator

Can anyone help with error message? "Something you're trying to use has been made inactive. Check the fields with accounts, customers, items, vendors or employees."

Hi there. Thanks for dropping by here in the Community forum. I have some information for you and guide you through deleting an employee.

 

In QuickBooks Online (QBO), only the account administrators can manage employees and this includes adding and deleting them. With that being said, I'd recommend making sure that you're signed in as the company's admin. If you aren't, I'd suggest consulting the admin to perform the task.

 

Also, employees who have a pay history or paychecks can't be deleted already. This is designed for better records and not to mess up the accounts associated with that certain employee. 

 

As a workaround, you can however change an employee's status and I'd be glad to guide you through the process:

 

  1. Go to the Payroll menu then select Employees.


     
  2. Locate the employee. If it isn't on the list, select All employees from the Active Employees ▼dropdown.
  3. Click on the employee to open.
  4. In the Actions ▼ dropdown, select Change status. 
  5. Select the most appropriate status. You can choose either Terminated or Not on payroll.


     
  6. When done, hit Save.

 

Moreover, since employees occasionally need to pay for items other than paychecks, such as health insurance, retirement contributions, uniforms, tools, or dues. This article will help you set up benefits and deductions that will be taken from their paychecks each payday: Set up, change, or delete employee-paid payroll deductions.

 

If you need additional assistance with your deleting an employee in QuickBooks Online Payroll, please feel free to notify me by adding a comment below. I'm more than happy to help. Keep safe!

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