2025 Guide to Fix QuickBooks Error 15218

QuickBooks Desktop is a useful robust software yet easy to use. However, like any other software, this application too receives bugs and errors. These errors generally show up in the form of particular error codes and error message. However, you may rectify these errors by simply following the DIY instructions offered by the software, but at times, the issues may get complex for you and require an immediate solution for it. In such cases, an expert will be required to deal with them.

Have you just realized how challenging QuickBooks errors can be? Well, one such time-consuming error that we will be addressing here is QuickBooks Error Code 15218. This tends to be a payroll update error that often occurs due to misconfiguration of the internet settings. While the error falls under the 15xxx series, it might seem to be a bit tricky to rectify for some QuickBooks users. Understanding how essential it is for you to deal with this error, here we are with this informative article sharing the nitty gritty of QB error 15218. For more details, keep scrolling this segment and towards the end, you will definitely be able to fix the error permanently.

In this detailed troubleshooting guide, you’ll learn how to identify the causes of Error 15218 and apply proven methods to fix it—step by step.

What is QuickBooks Error 15218?

Error 15218 is a payroll update error from the 15xxx series that prevents QuickBooks from connecting to Intuit’s update servers. It commonly triggers an error message like:

“Error 15218: QuickBooks could not complete the payroll update. Please verify your Internet connection settings.”

This error blocks you from accessing the latest payroll tax tables and compliance features—making it essential to resolve quickly.

Troubleshooting QuickBooks Error 15218 Step by Step

You can try implementing the steps and methods shared below to get rid of the QuickBooks payroll update error 15218.

Solution 1: Update QuickBooks in Safe Mode

• Restart your PC and press F8 repeatedly.
• Choose Safe Mode with Networking.
• Launch QuickBooks as administrator.
• Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
• Click Update Now and check Reset Updates.
• Hit Get Updates, then restart and install.

Solution 2: Install Digital Signature Certificate

• Navigate to: C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks\QBW32.exe
• Right-click QBW32.exe > Properties > Digital Signatures.
• Select Intuit Inc., then click Details > View Certificate.
• Click Install Certificate > Next > Finish.
• Restart your system.

Solution 3: Add Intuit Domains to Trusted Sites

• Open Internet Explorer (or Edge) as administrator.
• Go to Internet Options > Security > Trusted Sites.
• Click Add > Close > OK, then reboot.

Solution 4: Temporarily Disable Firewall & Antivirus

• Open Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall.
• Click Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
• Turn off for both Private and Public networks.
• Retry the payroll update.
• Don’t forget to re-enable after resolving the error.

Solution 5: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks

• Download and run QuickBooks Clean Install Tool.
• Follow prompts to uninstall and reinstall.
• Enter product key and license to activate.

Solution 6: Reconfigure Internet Settings

• Open Internet Explorer > Internet Options > Advanced tab.
• Click Apply > OK, restart your PC.

FAQs: QuickBooks Error Code 15218

Still Need Help?

If you’ve tried the above steps and are still stuck on Error 15218, don’t stress. Our certified QuickBooks error support team are available at 1-800-761-1787 to provide step-by-step assistance and resolve your issue efficiently.