
In QuickBooks, if users face this problem, they cannot create a PDF file, and users will not be able to e-mail or print the forms. QuickBooks Save as PDF not working is a type of error that is a common problem in QuickBooks. This problem occurs when users try to save reports, invoices, or other forms as PDFs in QuickBooks. In this article, we will give you the essential solutions to this problem and also explain the causes.
What is the Error message that appears on the screen when this problem occurs
When QuickBooks fails to save a document as a PDF, it normally displays this error message: “QuickBooks cannot save your form as a PDF file”
This error prevents users from completing tasks like sending invoices, saving reports, or exporting other QuickBooks documents as PDF files. Sometimes, the user may even get a more specific error message related to the PDF converter or an issue with the printing configuration.
What are the Causes of QuickBooks Save As PDF Not Working?
There are many reasons why QuickBooks shows the error with “QuickBooks Cannot Save Your PDF File”. One of the main reasons for this error is if the lack of a PDF converter is missing or damaged because QuickBooks only depends on the PDF converter to create PDF files. Either it is QuickBooks PDF Converter or Microsoft Print to PDF. QuickBooks will not save the PDF file if it is not available, outdated, or corrupted.
- Damage QuickBooks Installation: The main reason for this, there will be a corrupted or incomplete installation of QuickBooks.
- Outdated Version: It may also be the reason for this case, that the version of Windows or QuickBooks is outdated or un-updated. These problems can arise between software like PDF converters. It is necessary to update with the latest version so that it can function smoothly.
- Issue of Printer Configure: QuickBooks will fail to generate PDF files if the configuration of the printer is incorrect or there are issues with printer drivers. QuickBooks uses a virtual printer like a Microsoft PDF printer or QuickBooks PDF converter.
- Print Spooler Problems: All print jobs, including saving as PDFs are handled by this tool. If this tool is not working properly, QuickBooks won’t be able to generate PDFs.
- Third-Part Applications: Some third-party applications interfere with the saving of QuickBooks documents as PDFs, antivirus, or security software. The process of generating PDFs can be blocked or restricted by these programs.
Points to Remember Before Trying to Fix the Issue
Before discussing the solutions and ways to resolve this error in QuickBooks, you have to remember some points mentioned below:
- Data Backup: Before making changes in QuickBooks make sure to backup your data. This will ensure to safety of your data and lose nothing in case something goes wrong while carrying it out.
- Software Updates: First, make sure that your operating system and QuickBooks are updated with the latest version. This can help to resolve issues and improve performance.
- Printer Settings: The settings of your printer may be misconfigured, verify your printer settings. Any problem with your printer setup stops the creation of PDFs because QuickBooks uses virtual printers.
- Save PDF in Different Locations: Try to save your PDF in different locations such as a desktop to rule out permission issues with the folder or drive.
- Temporary Disable of Antivirus: Try to temporarily disable of antivirus, if any error occurs related to interfering with antivirus software.
Solution to Fix the QuickBooks Save as PDF Not Working
Here are some ways to troubleshoot the problem of QuickBooks Save as PDF error:
Check and Reinstall the PDF Converter
- Click on the Start button and open the Control panel, then select the Devices and Printer option.
- Locate QuickBooks PDF Converter or Microsoft Print to PDF.
- If the converter is not found or damaged, reinstall Quickbooks to retrieve the PDF converter tool.
- To do this manually, use the tools in QuickBooks.
Repair the QuickBooks Installation
- If QuickBooks not working properly, it may be because of a Corrupted Installation. Repairing of QuickBooks is the solution of this error.
- Search the control panel by clicking on start, then go to Program and Features.
- Select QuickBooks and click repair.
- Follow the prompts to complete the repair process.
- After the repair, restart your computer and try again to save your document as a PDF.
Update QuickBooks and Your Operating System
The old version of QuickBooks or Windows can cause issues with PDF generation features. Make sure you are updated with the new version.
- Open QuickBooks and click on Help and Update QuickBooks.
- Install the latest update of QuickBooks.
- Similarly, open the update window section and update the Operating system.
Configure Printer Settings
Configure all printer settings properly in QuickBooks.
- Click the start button, select the control panel, then Devices and Printers.
- After that, right-click on QuickBooks PDF Converter or Microsoft Print to PDF.
- Click on Set as Default Printer.
- Now, you can restart QuickBooks and try to save the document as a PDF.
Check the Windows Print Spooler
For managing print jobs in Windows, including PDF activities print spooler is responsible. QuickBooks cannot print PDFs if the print spooler is not working.
- Press the Windows key + R, then type service.msc in the entry box, and enter.
- In the list of services locate Print Spooler.
- Right-click on the print spooler and select Start or Restart.
- Now you can check that QuickBooks saves as PDF.
Disable Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily
Antivirus and firewall settings can block saving PDFs in QuickBooks. Temporarily disable these programs to fix this.
- Right-click the antivirus icon in the taskbar then, select Disable or Pause protection.
- Once disabled, try again to save the form as PDF.
- If it is successful, then change the antivirus settings.
Manually Add a PDF Printer
If the PDF printer is not located by QuickBooks, then you can add one manually.
- Go to Devices and Printer, then click Add a printer.
- Choose Microsoft Print to PDF, then install it following the prompt.
- Once installed, then try to save as PDF again in QuickBooks.
Conclusion
The “QuickBooks Save As PDF Not Working” error occurs due to many reasons, including problems with the PDF converter, corrupted installation, old version, and incorrect printer settings. You can solve these problems with these solutions, checking the PDF converter, repairing QuickBooks, updating software, and adjusting printer settings. Always remember to back up your data before making changes.
Read also articles: