QuickBooks Payroll Error 15107 blocks payroll updates from being applied correctly. Whether due to corrupted update files, permission errors, or interference from antivirus programs, this issue halts essential tax table updates, risking payroll miscalculations. QuickBooks Payroll relies on up-to-date tax tables and system configurations, fixing this error ensures your employee paychecks and tax filings stay accurate and compliant.
What Causes QuickBooks Payroll Error 15107?
Error 15107 is caused by broken update chains, blocked access to system components, and damaged QuickBooks files. Whether due to failed installations, expired file signatures, or external software interference, any disruption in the payroll update pipeline can trigger this issue. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Incomplete or Failed QuickBooks Desktop Update
A partially applied or failed QuickBooks Desktop update can corrupt the files needed for payroll updates. If the system shuts down or the internet connection drops during an update, QuickBooks may retain broken files, leading to Error 15107 during future payroll tasks.
Why Does It Happen?
- Update process was interrupted mid-way
- Downloaded files were incomplete or corrupted
- Installer was blocked by background software
- Low disk space caused an abrupt failure
- Previous update errors were never fixed
2. Damaged QuickBooks Components or Registry Entries
QuickBooks depends on valid system registry keys and core components. If registry entries are broken or files go missing—due to malware, registry cleaners, or manual modifications—Error 15107 may appear during payroll updates.
Why Does It Happen?
- Registry was altered by cleaning software
- Malware removed critical QuickBooks files
- Improper uninstall left behind broken entries
- Disk errors corrupted program directories
- Manual edits deleted or changed critical paths
3. Outdated Digital Signature or Missing File Permissions
If update files aren’t digitally signed or QuickBooks lacks permission to access certain folders, the payroll update will fail. Users often trigger this by not running QuickBooks as Administrator or after Windows security updates break trusted certificates.
Why Does It Happen?
- Expired or missing digital signatures
- Users launch QuickBooks without admin rights
- Folder access restricted by Windows policies
- Windows blocks unsigned files from executing
- System files lack modification permissions
4. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking Update Services
Antivirus and firewall software sometimes misidentify QuickBooks update files as threats. This results in blocked downloads or file removals, causing Error 15107. Without configuring exceptions, QuickBooks can’t maintain stable update operations.
Why Does It Happen?
- QuickBooks isn’t whitelisted in antivirus settings
- Firewall blocks outbound access to Intuit servers
- Antivirus removes Qbupdate.exe or update packages
- Security software flags the updater as malicious
- Ports 80 or 443 required for updates are closed
5. Corrupt Qbupdate.exe File
The Qbupdate.exe file is central to downloading and applying payroll updates. If it’s damaged—due to crashes, forced shutdowns, or malware—QuickBooks won’t be able to install tax table updates, resulting in Error 15107.
Why Does It Happen?
- Forced update closure caused file corruption
- System crash interrupted payroll update process
- Malware damaged the update executable
- Disk errors affected program directory
- Conflicting QuickBooks versions interfered
6. Internet Connection Was Unstable During Update
Payroll updates require a stable connection to download full files from Intuit servers. If your internet drops out, files may be left incomplete or corrupted, triggering Error 15107. This cause often goes unnoticed until QuickBooks fails to apply the update.
Why Does It Happen?
- Connection dropped during file download
- Firewall blocked server handshakes mid-update
- ISP throttling interfered with large updates
- Proxy server settings blocked QuickBooks
- Timeout errors caused corrupted cache
7. System Time and Date Settings Are Incorrect
Incorrect time and date settings on your system can break QuickBooks’ ability to validate digital certificates for updates. This silent but common problem causes the software to think the update is expired or untrusted—leading to Error 15107.
Why Does It Happen?
- Time zone or clock settings are off
- System CMOS battery is dead
- Automatic time sync is disabled
- Incorrect date causes certificate mismatch
- Updates flagged as invalid due to expired trust
Bottom Line
Payroll Error 15107 may seem like a technical hiccup, but it prevents critical updates from being applied—putting your tax compliance and employee pay at risk. Fixing the root cause—whether permissions, corrupt files, or internet interruptions—ensures payroll runs smoothly and your business avoids penalties. Always keep QuickBooks updated, configure antivirus exceptions, and validate system settings to prevent future disruptions.
FAQs
1. Will reinstalling QuickBooks fix Error 15107?
Not necessarily. Start by using the QuickBooks Tool Hub to repair the installation. Reinstallation should only be done if the repair fails.
2. Can I keep using payroll without fixing Error 15107?
It’s not recommended. You may process payroll with outdated tax tables, leading to incorrect deductions and legal compliance issues.
3. What tools can help fix damaged update files?
Use QuickBooks Tool Hub > Program Problems > Quick Fix My Program or run a repair install through the Control Panel to resolve update issues.
4. Is Error 15107 caused by antivirus software?
Yes, if your antivirus blocks update files or removes executables like Qbupdate.exe, it can cause this error. Always add QuickBooks to your antivirus exceptions.
5. How do I fix update problems caused by internet drops?
Retry the update after ensuring your connection is stable. Avoid Wi-Fi if possible—connect via Ethernet for reliable downloads.