cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 
gerdgoebel
Level 4

Deleting an item and recreating it shows error that the item already exists

I am using QB Prem 2020 with latest updates.

I deleted an item then I wanted to re-create the same item from scratch but get an error message that the item already exists.

Then I did a rebuild of the database, but still I get this same error.

If I delete an item it should be gone!!!!

This is on a database where I deleted all the transaction before updating what I need.

What can I do as I need the same item number?

3 Comments 3
BigRedConsulting
Community Champion

Deleting an item and recreating it shows error that the item already exists

You probably didn't actually delete it, but when you tried got a message it was in use and so you can't delete it, but you can hide it/make it inactive.

 

If you show the hidden items on the items list, do you see it?

SarahannC
Moderator

Deleting an item and recreating it shows error that the item already exists

Hello there, gerdgoebel.

 

Yes, you're right that as long as the item has been deleted already, you can recreate and be able to save it again. As BigRedConsulting shared above, if you've got this exact message " This name is already in use. Please use another name", it means that the item is not yet deleted. It could be that item was only inactivated. That's the program won't allow you to recreate the name item number.

 

First, we can try to include all inactive items. If it's showing, right-click on the item and select Delete Item.

 

On the other hand, if we've verified that it's not showing on the item list, we can run the repair tool in QuickBooks Desktop. Here's how:
 

  1. Back up your company file.
  2. Restart your computer.
  3. Open the Windows Start menu, then select Control Panel.
  4. Select Programs and Features then Uninstall a Program.
  5. Click QuickBooks from the list of Programs, then Uninstall/Change.
  6. Hit Repair
  7. Click Next. Then, Finish.

 

To learn more about managing your items in QuickBooks, please refer to this article: Frequently Asked Questions About Items.

 

Let me know if you have other questions. Take care always.

gerdgoebel
Level 4

Deleting an item and recreating it shows error that the item already exists

My mistake. I thought I had the include inactive checkbox set, but apparently not.

All set.

Thanks for your reply.

Sign in for expert help
Ask questions, post replies & join our community of QuickBooks users.

Need to get in touch?

Contact us