Hello there, @toddbartel. I'm here to help you activate your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2021. 

To start, let's ensure that your QBDT program is updated to the latest release to get the latest program components and fixes. Here's how:

1. Open your QBDT account and go to Help.
2. Then, select Update QuickBooks Desktop.
3. Next, click Update Now and select Get Updates.
4. Once the update finishes, close and reopen QuickBooks.
5. If prompted to install the update, select Yes.
6. When the installation finishes, follow the on-screen instructions.

Once done, activate your QBDT again. 

If the same thing happens, you can run the Quick Fix tool in the QuickBooks Tool Hub. Please refer to the steps below:

1. Close your QBDT program.
2. Then, download the most recent version (1.6.0.3) of the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
3. Once the installation finishes, double-click the icon on your Windows desktop to open the tool hub.
4. Next, in the QuickBooks Tool Hub choose Program Problems.
5. Click Quick Fix my Program.
6. When the tool finishes, start QBDT, then open your data file and activate it again.

For reference, check out this article: Fix activation, license, and product numbers issues.

However, if you're still unable to activate QBDT 2021, I recommend reaching out to our Technical support team. They will further help you in activating the program.   

Once everything is fine, you can now restore the company file so you can get back to working order. 

I'm just around the corner to provide additional help in activating your QBDT program. Have a good one and stay safe.