# QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error: Causes, Fixes & Solutions

The **QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error** is a common problem faced by QuickBooks Desktop users when trying to send invoices, reports, pay stubs, or forms via email. This error occurs when QuickBooks fails to connect with Intuit’s delivery server, which is responsible for handling outbound emails.

If not resolved quickly, this issue can disrupt billing cycles, payroll communication, and client interactions. This guide explains the **causes, symptoms, and complete troubleshooting steps** to fix the error effectively.
![QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error [phone]](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/SJx2M5GS-l.png)

## What Is QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error?

The QuickBooks Delivery Server is an Intuit-managed service that allows users to email transactions directly from QuickBooks Desktop. When the software cannot establish a secure connection with this server, email delivery fails and triggers the Delivery Server Down error.

This issue typically appears while:
- Emailing invoices or estimates
- Sending payroll pay stubs
- Emailing reports as PDF files
- Using webmail or Outlook within QuickBooks

## Common Error Messages

Users may encounter messages such as:
- *QuickBooks Delivery Server Down*
- *Unable to connect to Intuit server*
- *Email service temporarily unavailable*
- *QuickBooks cannot send your email*
- *Server connection failed*

## Causes of QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error

### 1. Internet Connectivity Problems
Unstable or slow internet connections prevent QuickBooks from reaching Intuit servers.

### 2. Intuit Server Outage
Scheduled maintenance or temporary outages on Intuit’s end can cause this issue.

### 3. Incorrect Email Preferences
Misconfigured webmail or Outlook settings inside QuickBooks often block delivery.

### 4. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking
Security software may restrict QuickBooks ports or block secure connections.

### 5. Corrupted QuickBooks Program Files
Damaged installation files can interfere with email services.

### 6. Outdated QuickBooks Version
Older versions may not support current security and server requirements.

### 7. TLS or SSL Configuration Issues
Disabled TLS 1.2 or incorrect Windows internet settings can stop email transmission.

## Symptoms You May Notice

- Emails stuck in the Outbox
- Invoices not reaching customers
- Pay stubs failing to send
- No confirmation after clicking Send
- QuickBooks freezing during email attempts

## How to Fix QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error

### Solution 1: Check Internet Connection
- Verify internet access using a browser
- Restart modem and router
- Disable VPN connections

### Solution 2: Check Intuit Server Status
If the issue is server-related:
- Wait 30–60 minutes
- Retry sending emails later
- Avoid repeated attempts during outages

### Solution 3: Update QuickBooks Desktop
1. Open QuickBooks
2. Go to **Help → Update QuickBooks Desktop**
3. Click **Update Now**
4. Restart QuickBooks after updating

### Solution 4: Reconfigure Email Preferences
1. Go to **Edit → Preferences**
2. Select **Send Forms**
3. Choose Webmail or Outlook
4. Re-enter email credentials
5. Save changes and test email

### Solution 5: Disable Firewall & Antivirus Temporarily
- Turn off firewall and antivirus
- Send a test email
- Add QuickBooks as an exception if successful

**Required Ports:**
- TCP 80
- TCP 443
- TCP 8019

### Solution 6: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
1. Download and install **QuickBooks Tool Hub**
2. Open the tool
3. Select **Program Problems**
4. Run **QuickBooks Program Diagnostic Tool**
5. Restart the system

### Solution 7: Enable TLS 1.2 in Windows
1. Open **Control Panel**
2. Go to **Internet Options**
3. Click **Advanced**
4. Enable **TLS 1.2**
5. Disable SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0
6. Apply changes and restart

### Solution 8: Repair QuickBooks Installation
1. Open **Control Panel → Programs & Features**
2. Select QuickBooks
3. Click **Uninstall/Change**
4. Choose **Repair**
5. Restart after completion

## Prevention Tips

- Keep QuickBooks updated
- Maintain stable internet connectivity
- Allow QuickBooks through firewall settings
- Check email preferences regularly
- Keep Windows security protocols updated

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

### What does QuickBooks Delivery Server Down error mean?
It means QuickBooks cannot connect to Intuit’s server to send emails directly from the application.

### Why is QuickBooks unable to send emails?
This happens due to internet issues, Intuit server downtime, incorrect email settings, firewall restrictions, or outdated software.

### Is this error caused by Intuit servers?
Sometimes yes. Temporary server outages or maintenance can trigger this issue.

### Can I send invoices if the server is down?
Yes. You can save invoices as PDFs and send them manually via email.

### Does this issue affect QuickBooks Online?
No. This error mainly affects **QuickBooks Desktop** users.

### Does updating QuickBooks fix this error?
Yes. Updates often resolve server compatibility and security issues.

### Can antivirus software cause this problem?
Yes. Antivirus or firewall software may block QuickBooks email services.

### How long does this error usually last?
Server-related issues resolve within hours. Local issues require troubleshooting.

### When should I contact QuickBooks support?
If the error persists after troubleshooting, professional support **888-463-3385** is recommended.

## Conclusion

The **QuickBooks Delivery Server Down Error** can interrupt essential business communication, but it is usually fixable with proper troubleshooting. By updating QuickBooks, fixing email settings, adjusting security configurations, and verifying connectivity, users can restore email functionality quickly and prevent future disruptions.