<h1>QuickBooks Error 46 How to Restart the Print Spooler 2026</h1>
<h2>Understanding QuickBooks Error 46</h2>
<p>
QuickBooks users often encounter
<strong>Error 46</strong>
when attempting to print invoices, checks, or reports. This error usually occurs due to conflicts in the
<strong>Print Spooler service</strong>
or corrupted printer files. Ignoring this problem can delay your accounting tasks and disrupt payroll processes.
</p>
<p>
QuickBooks Error 46 is not uncommon, especially in
<strong>QuickBooks Desktop 2026</strong>
, where updates sometimes interfere with printer configurations. The good news is, this issue can be resolved quickly
by restarting the Print Spooler and ensuring printer settings are correct.
</p>
<p>
Call&nbsp;
<strong>[phone]</strong>
&nbsp;to fix QuickBooks Error 46 quickly by restarting the Print Spooler and clearing printer queues efficiently.
</p>
<h2>What Causes QuickBooks Error 46?</h2>
<p>
Several factors can trigger
<strong>Error 46</strong>
:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Corrupted print spooler files.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Outdated QuickBooks version or pending updates.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Conflicting printer drivers.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Damaged Windows system files affecting printing.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Network printer issues in multi-user environments.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Identifying the exact cause helps in applying the correct fix, saving you time and avoiding repeated errors.</p>
<h2>Step-by-Step Guide: How to Restart the Print Spooler</h2>
<p>
Restarting the
<strong>Print Spooler service</strong>
can resolve Error 46 in most cases. Follow these steps carefully:
</p>
<h3>Step 1: Open Services</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
Press
<strong>Windows + R</strong>
to open the Run dialog box.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
Type
<code>services.msc</code>
and press
<strong>Enter</strong>
.
</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Step 2: Locate Print Spooler</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
In the Services window, scroll down to find
<strong>Print Spooler</strong>
.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
Right-click and select
<strong>Stop</strong>
to halt the service temporarily.
</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Step 3: Clear Print Queue</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
Navigate to
<code>C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS</code>
.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Delete all files in the folder to clear pending print jobs.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Step 4: Restart the Service</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
Return to the
<strong>Services</strong>
window.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
Right-click
<strong>Print Spooler</strong>
and select
<strong>Start</strong>
.
</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h3>Step 5: Verify Printer Settings</h3>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
Open
<strong>Devices and Printers</strong>
in Windows.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Set your desired printer as the default.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Test printing a sample document to ensure functionality.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>
Restarting the Print Spooler often resolves
<strong>QuickBooks Error 46</strong>
, allowing printing tasks to proceed without interruption.
</p>
<h2>Additional Fixes for Persistent Error 46</h2>
<p>If restarting the Print Spooler does not fully resolve the issue, try these methods:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p>
<strong>Update QuickBooks Desktop 2026:</strong>
Ensure your software is up-to-date to avoid compatibility problems.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
<strong>Reinstall Printer Drivers:</strong>
Download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
<strong>Run QuickBooks Tool Hub:</strong>
Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix common printing errors.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
<strong>Check Firewall &amp; Antivirus Settings:</strong>
Sometimes security software blocks QuickBooks from accessing the printer.
</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>
<strong>Contact QuickBooks Support:</strong>
Call
<strong>[phone]</strong>
for professional assistance if the problem persists.
</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h2>Why Restarting Print Spooler Works</h2>
<p>
The
<strong>Print Spooler</strong>
acts as a buffer between QuickBooks and your printer. If the spooler is overloaded or stuck, QuickBooks cannot send
print jobs correctly. Restarting the service clears the queue, resets system resources, and resolves errors like Error
46.
</p>
<p>
For users in business-critical environments, calling
<strong>[phone]</strong>
ensures quick resolution without data loss or delayed payroll processing.
</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>
<strong>QuickBooks Error 46</strong>
can disrupt your accounting workflow, but restarting the Print Spooler is a proven solution in 2026. Following the
steps above and keeping your QuickBooks updated minimizes printer errors. For urgent help, contacting
<strong>[phone]</strong>
ensures professional guidance and uninterrupted printing.
</p>
<h2>FAQs About QuickBooks Error 46</h2>
<p>
<strong>1. How do I know if QuickBooks Error 46 is related to the Print Spooler?</strong>
<br />
Check if other applications can print. If only QuickBooks fails, the Print Spooler is likely the issue.
</p>
<p>
<strong>2. Can restarting QuickBooks alone fix Error 46?</strong>
<br />
No, restarting QuickBooks usually does not resolve spooler-related issues. Restarting the Print Spooler is essential.
</p>
<p>
<strong>3. Is it safe to delete files in the PRINTERS folder?</strong>
<br />
Yes, these files are temporary print jobs. Deleting them clears the queue without affecting your system.
</p>
<p>
<strong>4. Do I need admin rights to restart the Print Spooler?</strong>
<br />
Yes, administrative privileges are required to stop and start Windows services.
</p>
<p>
<strong>5. Who can help if Error 46 persists?</strong>
<br />
Certified QuickBooks experts can assist. Call
<strong>[phone]</strong>
for fast, reliable support.
</p>