QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software that helps businesses manage their finances efficiently. However, like any software, it can sometimes encounter errors that disrupt workflow. One such error is QuickBooks Error 6000 83. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of this error, its causes, and effective solutions to fix it.

What is QuickBooks Error 6000 83?

QuickBooks Error 6000 83 is a file-related error typically occurring when a user tries to open, restore, or back up a company file. The error message may read:

“An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file. Please try again. If the problem persists, contact Intuit Technical Support and provide them with the following error codes: (-6000, 83).”

This error indicates that QuickBooks cannot access the specified company file due to various underlying issues. Understanding the causes of this error is crucial for effectively resolving it.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 6000 83

Several factors can lead to QuickBooks Error 6000 83. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Missing or Corrupted Company File

This error can be triggered if the QuickBooks company file is missing or corrupted. This may happen due to improper shutdowns, software crashes, or file corruption during data transfer.

2. Insufficient Permissions

QuickBooks requires specific permissions to access files and folders. If the user does not have sufficient permissions on the network server or the folder containing the company file an error may occur.

3. Hosting Mode Issues

In a multi-user environment, if hosting mode is enabled on more than one workstation, it can lead to conflicts and result in Error 6000 83. Only the server should host the company file.

4. Incorrect File Extension

If the company file has an incorrect file extension (e.g., .qbm or .qbb instead of .qbw), QuickBooks will not recognize it as a valid company file, leading to this error.

5. Firewall and Antivirus Interference

Sometimes, firewall settings or antivirus software can block QuickBooks from accessing the company file. This interference can prevent the software from functioning correctly.

6. Network Issues

If the company file is stored on a network and there are connectivity issues, QuickBooks may not be able to access the file, resulting in Error 6000 83.

7. Damaged or Corrupted Folder

The folder containing the QuickBooks company file may be damaged or corrupted, leading to access issues and triggering the error.

8. Incompatible Windows Settings

Using a non-U.S. or non-Canadian version of Windows or having the regional language settings set to something other than English can also cause compatibility issues with QuickBooks.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6000 83

Identifying the symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6000 83 can help you confirm whether you are experiencing this specific error. 

Common symptoms include:

1. An error message stating “QuickBooks Error 6000 83” appears on the screen.
2. QuickBooks crashes or freezes when attempting to open the company file.
3. The system becomes sluggish or unresponsive.
4. Users are unable to access company records or essential data.
5. The computer may experience periodic freezes or slow performance.

Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 6000 83

Once you have identified the causes and symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6000 83, you can proceed with the following solutions to resolve the issue:

Solution 1: Check File Permissions

1. Ensure Proper Permissions: Verify that the user has read/write permissions to the folder where the company file is stored. Right-click the folder, select Properties, and navigate to the Security tab to check permissions.
2. Modify Permissions: If necessary, modify the permissions to grant full control to the user account running QuickBooks.

Solution 2: Rename .ND and .TLG Files

The .ND and .TLG files are configuration files that allow QuickBooks to access the company file in a network or multi-user environment. Renaming these files can help resolve access issues.

1. Locate the Company File: Navigate to the folder where your company file is stored.
2. Find .ND and .TLG Files: Look for files with the same name as your company file but with .ND and .TLG extensions (e.g., companyfile.qbw.nd and companyfile.qbw.tlg).
3. Rename the Files: Right-click each file and select Rename. Add the word “OLD” at the end of each file name (e.g., companyfile.qbw.nd.OLD).
4. Open QuickBooks: Launch QuickBooks and try to open your company file again.

Solution 3: Turn Off Multi-User Hosting

If you are in a multi-user environment, ensure that only the server is hosting the company file.

1. Open QuickBooks on Workstations: On each workstation, Open QuickBooks without opening the company file.
2. Access Utilities: Go to the File menu, hover over Utilities, and check if the option to Stop Hosting Multi-User Access is available.
3. Disable Hosting: If it is available, select it to turn off hosting on that workstation.
4. Repeat for All Workstations: Repeat this process on all workstations connected to the network.

Solution 4: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is a diagnostic tool that can help resolve issues with your company file.

1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub: If you don’t have it installed, download the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
2. Open the Tool Hub: Launch the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
3. Select File Doctor: Click on Company File Issues and then select Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
4. Scan the Company File: Follow the prompts to scan your company file for issues. The tool will attempt to fix any problems it detects.

Solution 5: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Sometimes, firewall or antivirus settings can block QuickBooks from accessing the company file.

1. Temporarily Disable Firewall: Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus software to see if it resolves the issue.
2. Add Exceptions: If disabling the firewall resolves the error, add QuickBooks as an exception in your firewall and antivirus settings to prevent future issues.

Solution 6: Restore from a Backup

If you have a recent backup of your company file, restoring it may resolve the error.

1. Open QuickBooks: Launch QuickBooks and go to the File menu.
2. Select Restore: Choose Open or Restore Company and then select Restore a backup copy.
3. Follow the Prompts: Follow the prompts to locate and restore your backup file.

Solution 7: Move the Company File

If the company file is stored on a network, try moving it to your local hard drive.

1. Copy the Company File: Navigate to the folder containing your company file and copy it to your local hard drive (e.g., C: drive).
2. Open QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and try to access the company file from the local drive.
3. Move Back to Server: If successful, you can later move the company file back to the server.

Solution 8: Check for File Extensions

Ensure that the company file has the correct file extension. The main company file should have a .qbw extension. If it has a different extension, rename it to .qbw.

Solution 9: Update QuickBooks

Ensure that you are using the latest version of QuickBooks. Updates often contain fixes for known issues, including error codes.

1. Open QuickBooks: Launch QuickBooks and go to the Help menu.
2. Check for Updates: Select Update QuickBooks Desktop and follow the prompts to install any available updates.

Conclusion

Error 6000 83 can be a frustrating issue for users, but understanding its causes and implementing the right solutions can help you resolve it effectively. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot the error and regain access to your company file.