QuickBooks Error 15218: Causes, Identification, and Fixes

QuickBooks Error 15218 appears while installing payroll updates. It usually indicates a failure in verifying the digital signature of a file required for the update process. Users may see a message such as, “QuickBooks is not able to verify the digital signature for one of the files.” This guide explains the causes, symptoms, and step-by-step methods to fix the issue efficiently. Users will also learn how to avoid this error in the future and where to seek expert help.

Watch this quick video to learn the causes and solutions for QuickBooks Error Code 15218.

What is QuickBooks Error 15218?

QuickBooks Error 15218 is a payroll update error. It occurs when QuickBooks Desktop fails to verify the digital signature of an update file. The digital signature is a security protocol that validates the authenticity of downloaded files. If the signature verification fails, the update stops, and the error appears.

This error affects the payroll functions. It prevents users from completing updates that are essential for compliance and payroll tax calculations.

Why does QuickBooks Error 15218 occur?

The error usually occurs because of system or software-level security misconfigurations. Below are the most common causes:

• Improper Internet Explorer settings, especially TLS protocol settings.
• Digital signature verification failure, often due to corrupted files or certificates.
• Windows not updated, leading to security certificate mismatches.
• Antivirus or firewall blocking QuickBooks components.
• Incorrect digital certificate setup in Internet Explorer.

How can you identify QuickBooks Error 15218?

You can identify QuickBooks Error 15218 based on its typical behavior:

• You see a message: “QuickBooks is not able to verify the digital signature.”
• The payroll update stops midway and fails to install.
• QuickBooks becomes unresponsive during updates.
• The error appears repeatedly after every update attempt.
• You are unable to download or install the latest payroll tax table.

What are the steps to fix QuickBooks Error 15218?

There are several solutions to resolve QuickBooks Error 15218. Begin with basic steps, then move to advanced ones if the issue persists.

Solution 1: Configure Internet Explorer Security Settings

This solution ensures QuickBooks can verify digital signatures during payroll updates.

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Go to Tools > Internet Options > Advanced Tab.
3. Scroll to Security Section.
4. Uncheck “Check for publisher’s certificate revocation.”
5. Check “Use TLS 1.0” and uncheck TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2 if checked.
6. Click Apply, then OK.
7. Restart QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update again.

Solution 2: Install the Digital Signature Certificate

Installing the certificate manually often resolves the digital signature issue.

1. Navigate to the path:
   C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks [year]
2. Locate the file QBW32.exe.
3. Right-click on the file > select Properties.
4. Open the Digital Signatures tab.
5. Select Intuit Inc. and click Details.
6. In the Digital Signature Details window, click View Certificate.
7. Click Install Certificate > Choose Place all certificates in the following store.
8. Select Trusted Root Certification Authorities.
9. Click Next > Finish > OK.
10. Restart the system and retry the update.

Solution 3: Update Windows and QuickBooks

Outdated systems may trigger digital signature validation errors.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security > Click Check for Updates.
3. Install all available Windows updates.
4. Launch QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
5. Click Update Now, then select Get Updates.

Solution 4: Run QuickBooks as Administrator

Running QuickBooks with admin rights helps it access required resources.

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Right-click the QuickBooks icon on your desktop.
3. Select Run as administrator.
4. Try installing the payroll update again.

Solution 5: Disable Firewall/Antivirus Temporarily

Some firewalls block QuickBooks update components.

1. Open your antivirus or firewall program.
2. Temporarily disable real-time protection.
3. Retry the payroll update.
4. Re-enable protection after completing the update.

Is there an automated tool to fix QuickBooks Error 15218?

Yes. You can use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix various update-related errors including Error 15218.

• Download it from the official Intuit website.
• Install and run the tool.
• Open the Program Problems section.
• Run Quick Fix my Program and then retry the update.

It scans and resolves common program and network configuration errors.

How can I prevent QuickBooks Error 15218 in the future?

To prevent this error:

• Always keep QuickBooks and Windows updated.
• Regularly check and configure Internet Explorer security settings.
• Ensure your digital certificates are valid.
• Avoid using outdated antivirus programs.
• Run QuickBooks as administrator when performing updates.

What if QuickBooks Error 15218 is not fixed after troubleshooting?

If you’ve followed all the solutions and the error still exists, it might be due to deeper system-level issues or file corruption. Immediate expert help is recommended to avoid payroll processing delays.

How can our experts assist you in resolving QuickBooks Error 15218?

Our team at Error Code Experts provides personalized troubleshooting for QuickBooks errors. We ensure quick and accurate resolution through remote support and advanced tools.

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