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How To Fix QuickBooks Company File Not Found Or Missing Error?

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QuickBooks has no company window, which is a salient feature allowing you to select between company files. However, sometimes users can’t open company file in QuickBooks desktop. The error arises due to multiple reasons like issues in network connection, damaged or corrupted program files, discrepancies in transaction log files, etc. The user sees an error message stating QuickBooks Company file not found.

However, there is no need to worry as we have listed a set of proven methods to troubleshoot QuickBooks company file is missing error. These include checking the network connectivity, fixing QuickBooks files, running QuickBooks File Doctor, etc. However, let us first start with a better description of the company file not found in QuickBooks Desktop. 

What Does QuickBooks Company File Not Found Error Mean?

First, let’s understand what is QuickBooks company file.

What is a Company File in QuickBooks?

When you create a company in QuickBooks, it creates a company file with the same name as the company. The company file has a .qbw extension and contains important information on the company and the account. 

When QuickBooks cannot find company file, it displays an error message like this:

Error MessageWarning: The company file you selected could not be found. You can try one of the following:
Choose the ‘Open or Restore Company…’ command from the ‘File’ menu to look for this file in a different directory.
(or) Use the ‘Search’ tool from the Windows ‘Start Menu’ to search for this file in your computer.
Error NameCompany file Issue
Error CauseAn issue with the file extension and file location
Fix Now+1.855.738.0359.

What Leads To The Error “QuickBooks Unable To Open Company File”?

You might see the error: QuickBooks is unable to locate the company file whenever you move it to a new location or if your QuickBooks company file extension is missing or not opening. This is normal whenever a data file is renamed or moved from its location. Also, possibly if your workstation gets disconnected from the path of your file location, you might face this issue. Also, if the file gets deleted, you will be unable to open or access it.

Now, take a look over the reason below before proceeding with any troubleshooting step. It will be helpful in resolving the error faster if you cannot open the company file in QuickBooks desktop.

Fix QuickBooks error code: company file not found Warning

  • There might be some issue with the file extension and file location.
  • Conflict in the *QBW.TLG file.
  • One might be using an incorrect version of QuickBooks to open files.
  • One must have applied the wrong method to open particular file types.
  • Network connectivity issues when using QuickBooks in Multi-user mode.

Do you receive a ‘QuickBooks the company file could not be found‘ error message? Contact our expert team & understand how to fix data missing issues after updating files instantly by dialing our Asquare Cloud Hosting Helpline Number at +1(855)-738-0359.

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Some Common Error Codes When QuickBooks Cannot Open Company File

Mostly, QuickBooks data disappears or missing after the update occurs if the file is moved to a new location or the name is too large. Below, we have noted a list of common error codes that you might see when QuickBooks can’t open company files in QB Desktop.

Precautionary Measures Before Troubleshooting QuickBooks Can’t Find Company File Error

Precautionary Measures Before Troubleshooting QuickBooks Can't Find Company file

  • Before you begin resolving QuickBooks company file that is missing or cannot be found when opening, make sure that the issue is with the company file and not with the program itself.
  • It is important for the user to have an updated version of QuickBooks accounting software.
  • You must verify that the QuickBooks desktop program that you are using is not corrupted.
  • Along with that, ensure that only one computer hosts your company file.

How To Fix QuickBooks Company File Not Found in QB Desktop?

When you can’t open a company file in QuickBooks desktop, two conditions arise depending on which your troubleshooting method will vary. We will discuss these situations one by one and the solutions to eliminate the company file not found error in QB Desktop.

Condition 1: If, Somehow, the User is Accessing the QuickBooks File Over the Network

If you are accessing the QuickBooks file over the network and face QuickBooks cannot copy the company file issue, you need to follow the steps listed below.

Solution 1: Check for the Network Connectivity

If you are unable to locate or open the company file and getting a QuickBooks company file missing error, then it is important to verify network connectivity.

How to Check for the Network Connectivity

  1. To begin, first, you have to identify the name of server system.

    • For that, press the Windows + R keys together on your keyboard. It will open the Run dialog box on your screen.
    • In that run, you need to type in CMD and then press the Enter key in order to open the command prompt window.
    • After that, type ipconfig/all and then press the Enter key.

  2. Once down, make sure that you keep a note of the server names.
  3. Moving ahead, type Ping followed by the name of your server in the next Window.
  4. Once done, hit the Enter key.
  5. Being a user, you must see a reply for each packet.

    • If you have any packet loss, in this case, it signifies some issues with your network connection. Therefore, to get rid of can’t find QuickBooks company file error, you must utilize the QuickBooks File Doctor tool.

Utilize the QuickBooks File Doctor tool.

Also Read: Verified Solutions To Fix Intuit Data Protect has stopped working Error.

Solution 2: Search for the QuickBooks Company File

If you are trying to access your file through a network, then you must follow the below steps on the server that stores your company file. Even if you have stored your file on a local computer, you can also perform the same computer steps.

Search for the QuickBooks Company File

  • In the first place, you have to use the Windows feature to glance at your file type.
  • After that, click on the Windows Start button and then enter the extension of the company file along with an Asterisk sign in the Search Programs and the Files search box:

    • *.qbw (Working Files)
    • *.qbb (Back-Up Files)
    • *.qba (Accountants Copy Files)
    • *.qbx (Accountant Transfer Files)
    • *.qby (Accountants Changes Files)

  • Once you have found the required file, right-click on it and click on the option Open File Location.
  • Lastly, to eliminate the QuickBooks desktop can’t open company file problem, you must open the file from the right location.

Also Read: [Best Tutorial] QuickBooks Cannot use the Path to Open the Company File.

Solution 3: Choose the correct way to open the company file in QuickBooks

No matter which version of QuickBooks you are using, you must always try to open the file in the right way. To do so, you need to follow the steps that we have mentioned below:

Step 1: Open a Backup file

Open QuickBooks backup file extension

  • First, you must navigate to the File menu.
  • From there, you have to choose the option ‘Open or Restore Company.’
  • Once done, click on the ‘Restore a Backup File’ option and then click on Next.
  • Now, you have to search for the QuickBooks backup file and the .qbb extension.
  • Moving ahead, select the required company file and click on the Next tab to fix QuickBooks unable to backup company file.

Step 2: Open the QB Company File

Open the QB restore Company File

  • Firstly, click on the ‘Open or Restore Company’ option from the File menu.
  • After that, click on the option ‘Open a Company File’ and then click on Next.
  • Once done, you must search for the company file by adding the .qbw extension.
  • Lastly, click on Open.

You May Read Also: Uncovered Causes & Solutions To Get Rid Of QuickBooks Error C-343.

Step 3: Open an Accountants copy transfer file

Open an Accountants copy transfer file

  • In the first place, navigate to the File menu.
  • From there, select the option ‘Open or Restore a Company file‘.
  • After that, select the option to ‘Convert an Accountant’s Copy Transfer File‘ and then click on Next.

Convert an Accountant’s Copy Transfer File

  • Further, you will come across the ‘What the Accountant’s copy Can and Can’t Do’ Window, and there you have to click on Next.
  • Moving ahead, look for the file that has. qbx extension.
  • Once you find it, click on Open.
  • Once done, save the file on your computer by clicking on Save.

Condition 2: If, in case, you are accessing the QuickBooks file that you have saved locally on the same system

Solution 1: Look for all company files

  1. As a QB user, you must first go to the server system and then perform a wildcard search for all company files by typing one of the following, as mentioned below, into the search bar.
  2. You need to make sure that you include the Asterisk before the extension type to ensure the search works correctly. Below we have listed some of the file extensions:

    • *.qbw (Working files)
    • *.qbb (Back up files)
    • *.qba (Accountants Copy Files)
    • *.qbx (Accountant Transfer Files)
    • *.qby (Accountant changes files)

  3. Once you find the file you were looking for, you must note the file’s location and move to the solution.

Solution 2: Opening the file in QuickBooks

Depending on the QuickBooks version that you are using, you need to open your company file.

1 Step: The user needs to open the company file (.qbw) or an accountant’s copy.

  • Firstly, go to the File menu, and from there, select the ‘open or restore company‘ option.
  • After that, select the option that says “open a company file” and then click on Next.
  • Once done, go ahead and select the company file.
  • Lastly, click on open.

2 Step: Restoring the backup of .qbb file extension

  • In the first place, you have to select the option open or restore company from the file menu.
  • Following that, choose the restore a backup file option.
  • Once done, click on next.
  • After that, you have to select a local backup.
  • Moving ahead, select the company file and then click on next.
  • In the end, you have to choose the location where you want to save the restored files.

3 Step:\ Restoring an Accountant’s copy transfer file (.qbx)

  • To begin, choose the open or restore a company option from the file menu.
  • After that, click on the option convert and accountant’s copy transfer file.
  • Further, click on next.
  • If you come across the option “what the accountant’s copy can and can’t do the window,” then you have to click on next.
  • Moving ahead, select the file that you transferred and open it.
  • Lastly, to end the process, you must choose a location to save the Accountant’s copy file. Once decided, click on save.

If you have followed the above-mentioned steps as described, and the QuickBooks company file disappeared issue isn’t solved by now, it would help if you transfer QuickBooks to another computer. Once done, follow the above steps and open the desired file.

To conclude the troubleshooting method, one must follow the below-mentioned steps till problems loading QuickBooks company file not found is solved

  • If necessary, update QuickBooks.
  • Now, run “Reboot.bat.”
  • Then, you need to perform a clean installation of QuickBooks, i.e. start from scratch.
  • From the QuickBooks installation window, choose the option “Repair”.

Note: If you still face the issue, you can try updating your QuickBooks Company File to a newer version. In some cases, updating the company file can resolve such issues. Follow our article on How to Update QuickBooks Company File.

When you have updated your company file, follow the below-mentioned steps:

  • As an accounting professional, you must keep the data backup in a safe place so that you can go back to it whenever needed.
  • If in case you have copied the data from a different computer for updating it.

You must consider these pointers while updating your company file so that you do not make any blunders and follow the whole process with 100% precision.

Need Professional Assistance to Recover Lost Data

If you have followed the above methods as described, you will be able to resolve the error QuickBooks company file not found error without any hassle. Somehow, If you get stuck and aren’t able to proceed further, or still, QuickBooks can’t find your company file, you must take the assistance of a QB expert. Contact our experts by dialing Asquare Cloud Hosting Helpline Number at +1.855.738.0359 right now and fix the QuickBooks file right away!

QuickBooks Cannot Find Company File FAQs

1. What To Do If QuickBooks Company File Data Missing After Update

If you encounter the error “Company file not found” in QuickBooks Desktop, don’t fret! Here are some steps to resolve it:

  1. Check File Location: Verify if your company file was moved or renamed. You can use the “Open or Restore Company…” command from the “File” menu to search for it in a different directory.
  2. Search Tool: Alternatively, use the Windows “Search” tool to look for the file on your computer.
  3. Network Connectivity: Ensure your computer is connected to the network. You can ping the server to check connectivity.
  4. QuickBooks File Doctor: Run the QuickBooks File Doctor tool to diagnose and fix issues.

Remember to keep regular backups of your company files to prevent data loss!

2. How Do I Backup My QuickBooks Company File?

To backup your QuickBooks company file, follow these steps:

  1. Open QuickBooks: Launch QuickBooks on your computer.
  2. Navigate to File Menu: Click on the “File” menu at the top left corner.
  3. Create Backup: Choose “Create Backup” or “Backup Company File” (depending on your QuickBooks version).
  4. Select Backup Location: Specify where you want to save the backup. You can choose an external drive, cloud storage, or a local folder.
  5. Customize Backup Options:

    • Choose whether to save a full backup or a custom backup.
    • Set the backup frequency (daily, weekly, etc.).

  6. Start Backup: Click “Save” or “Start Backup” to create the backup file.

Remember to keep your backups in a safe location and perform regular backups to safeguard your data!

3. What Is The Difference Between Full And Custom Backups In QuickBooks?

In QuickBooks, the difference between full and custom backups lies in the scope of data they cover:

  1. Full Backup: This option saves your entire financial data, including transactions, settings, and historical records. It’s like creating a comprehensive snapshot of your company file.
  2. Custom Backup: With this choice, you can tailor your backup to specific needs. For example:

    • You might want to save only certain transaction types (like invoices or checks).
    • Or perhaps you need to revert to a specific date and time for a particular list (such as customer or product lists).

Remember, regular backups are essential to safeguard your data!

4. How long does it take to create a QuickBooks backup?

Creating a QuickBooks backup can vary in time, but here are some general guidelines:

  1. Automatic Backups: If you schedule automatic backups, QuickBooks will handle it for you. The initial setup takes a few minutes, and subsequent backups occur automatically based on your chosen frequency. This process usually takes 5-10 minutes.
  2. Manual Backups: You can create one anytime if you prefer manual backups. Manually backing up your company file typically takes a few minutes as well.

Remember to back up regularly to keep your data safe!

5. How do I check if my QuickBooks backup was successful?

To verify if your QuickBooks backup was successful, follow these steps:

  1. Verify Data:

    • Go to File > Utilities > Verify Data.
    • If no issues are detected, your data is clean.
    • If errors are found, follow the instructions to fix them.

  2. Rebuild Data:

    • After verifying, go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data.
    • QuickBooks will prompt you to create a backup before rebuilding.
    • Once completed, verify data again to check for additional damage.

  3. Backup History:

    • In the Intuit Data Protect window, select View Backup History.
    • Review recent backup attempts and successes.

Remember to keep regular backups and ensure data integrity!

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 Oriana Zabell
Author Details
Oriana Zabell, a professional cloud engineer, has over three years of experience in desktop, online QuickBooks support andtroubleshooting. She is currently working as a cloud hosting consultant with Asquare Cloud Hosting. She loves to read andwrite about the latest technologies such as cloud computing, AI, DaaS, small businesses, manufacturing. When not writing,she is either reading novels or is indulged in a debate with movie fanatics.
Summary
Article Name
Try This Tricks To Fix QuickBooks Company File Not Found Error
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QuickBooks company file not found error might occur due to an issue with the file extension & file location or using an incorrect version & a few more. Hence, problems in loading QB data file is a big headache. So, read the full article to know various solutions if you can't open or won't find the company file.
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Oriana Zabell
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AsquareCloudHosting
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