Can't access former payroll quarters.

I suspect you're not opening the company file where your client did their payroll.

I am trying to open the file where I originally did the payroll.  I do it on my computer, not theirs. The copy states Search Index so it won't open.

I was trying to access a company file on my computer where I prepare the quarterly tax

returns.  The file I clicked on was the correct one, but it says Search Index so it won't open.

Meanwhile, I need to input the first 2 quarters, with over 100 employees it's going to

take me forever--never had this happen before.  Now I'm going to start backing up my work in

the future.

I'm here to share further details about the importance in backing up your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) company file, @Marilyn45.

Yes, you're correct. you'll have to start backing up your work (i.e., payroll data) for future use. This way, you're able to use the backup to restore your data whenever you need to.

There are two ways to back up your data. You can either do it automatically or manually. For the step-by-step guide for each method, please refer to this article: Back up your QuickBooks Desktop company file.

Once you're done and now that you have a backup, you can use it to restore your company file. You can check out this article for the detailed steps: Restore a backup of your company file.

Please know that I'm always around to help if you have other concerns about backing up your QBDT company file. You can drop your question below, and I'll gladly answer them for you. Take care, and I wish you continued success, @Marilyn45.

@Marilyn45 

What do you mean when you write, "The copy states Search Index so it won't open."

I've never heard of or seen anything like that.

@Marilyn45 

"The file I clicked on was the correct one, but it says Search Index so it won't open."

Again, I think no one knows that you're describing. "Search Index"?  Please send a screenshot of the issue.

Also, how is it you're trying to open the file? Are you starting in QuickBooks and picking Open or Restore company... from the File menu? If not, try doing it that way.