QuickBooks is one of the most widely used accounting software for small and medium-sized businesses. However, like any software, it can encounter errors from time to time, disrupting your workflow. One such error is QuickBooks Error 179, which typically appears when you're trying to sign in to your bank or credit card account through QuickBooks. In this article, we will explain what QuickBooks Error 179 is, why it happens, and provide you with effective solutions to resolve it. Additionally, we'll address some frequently asked questions (FAQs) and offer the contact details for QuickBooks support if you need further assistance.

What is QuickBooks Error 179?

QuickBooks Error 179 occurs when you're attempting to log in to your bank account or credit card account from within QuickBooks and the system fails to authenticate your credentials. The error message generally reads:

"Error 179: You entered an incorrect password. Please try again."

This error indicates a problem with the connection between QuickBooks and your online banking provider, making it impossible for QuickBooks to retrieve or send your account information. Although the error message suggests an incorrect password, the issue might lie elsewhere, and there are a number of reasons why this error occurs.

Key Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 179:

• Unable to connect to your bank account within QuickBooks.
• The system repeatedly asks for your bank login credentials.
• You receive a message indicating an “incorrect password,” even if the password is correct.
• A "bank feed" error when attempting to download transactions.

Causes of QuickBooks Error Message 179 pops up

There are several factors that can contribute to QuickBooks Error 179, including issues with your bank login details, connection settings, or QuickBooks itself. Here are the primary causes of the error:

1. Incorrect Login Credentials

One of the most common reasons for QuickBooks Error 179 is entering incorrect login credentials, such as your username or password. Even if you're certain you’re entering the correct details, QuickBooks may still not be able to authenticate your bank account.

2. Bank Server Issues

Sometimes, your bank's online services might be temporarily unavailable or experiencing connectivity issues. If the bank's server is down or not responding properly, QuickBooks cannot establish a secure connection to your bank account, causing error 179.

3. Connectivity Issues

Internet connection problems can also cause QuickBooks Error 179. A weak or intermittent connection might prevent QuickBooks from syncing with your bank account and cause the login to fail.

4. Outdated QuickBooks Version

Using an outdated version of QuickBooks could cause compatibility issues with your bank's online portal, leading to Error 179. QuickBooks is constantly updated to ensure compatibility with various banking institutions and features.

5. Security Settings and Two-Factor Authentication

Many banks have security measures like two-factor authentication (2FA) in place. If you're trying to access your bank account with QuickBooks and your bank requires a second authentication step, it can sometimes trigger Error 179. In such cases, QuickBooks may not be able to complete the authentication process.

6. Corrupt or Damaged Company File

A damaged QuickBooks company file can also cause connectivity issues when trying to sync with your bank account. If your company file is corrupted, it may result in QuickBooks Error 179 when accessing bank feeds.

How to Fix QuickBooks Online Banking Error 179

Now that we know the common causes of QuickBooks Error 179, let’s look at solutions to resolve it.

Solution 1: Verify Your Login Credentials

• Double-check your bank account login details (username and password).
• Ensure that you’re using the correct credentials for your online banking account and that they haven’t changed recently.
• Try logging into your bank's website directly to confirm that the login credentials are accurate.

Solution 2: Update QuickBooks

• Go to the Help menu in QuickBooks and select Update QuickBooks.
• Click Update Now and wait for the update to complete.
• Once the update is finished, restart QuickBooks and check if the error persists.

Solution 3: Clear Cache and Cookies

• Clear your browser's cache and cookies to eliminate any stored data that might be causing conflicts.
• After clearing, restart QuickBooks and try to log in again.

Solution 4: Check Your Internet Connection

• Make sure your internet connection is stable and fast enough for QuickBooks to sync with your bank.
• Test your internet connection by visiting a website in your browser. If the website loads slowly or doesn’t load at all, the issue may be with your network.
• Restart your modem or router if needed to ensure a strong connection.

Solution 5: Disable Two-Factor Authentication or Adjust Security Settings

• Some banks have two-factor authentication that may interfere with QuickBooks' connection. Temporarily disable it from your bank's website or adjust the security settings to allow QuickBooks to access your account.
• After resolving the issue, consider re-enabling the security features.

Solution 6: Update or Reset Bank Feeds

• In QuickBooks, go to Banking > Bank Feeds > Bank Feeds Center.
• Select the account that is having the issue, and then click Reset Bank Feeds.
• Follow the prompts to reset the bank feed and then try to reconnect.

Solution 7: Repair or Rebuild Your QuickBooks Company File

• Open QuickBooks and go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to rebuild your data.
• After the rebuild process is completed, check if the error has been resolved.

Solution 8: Contact Your Bank’s Support Team

If none of the above steps work, there may be an issue with your bank’s online portal or its integration with QuickBooks. Contact your bank’s technical support team for assistance in troubleshooting the issue.

FAQs About QuickBooks Error 179

1. Why do I keep getting QuickBooks Error 179?

Error 179 can occur due to a variety of reasons such as incorrect login credentials, network issues, outdated software, or problems with your bank’s server. It’s essential to troubleshoot each potential cause to resolve the error.

2. How can I update QuickBooks?

To update QuickBooks, click on the Help menu, then select Update QuickBooks. From there, choose Update Now and follow the prompts.

3. Can QuickBooks Error 179 be caused by my bank’s server?

Yes, if your bank's server is down or experiencing issues, it can cause QuickBooks Error 179. You may need to wait until the server issues are resolved or contact your bank's support.

4. Is it necessary to clear my browser's cache for QuickBooks Error 179?

Yes, clearing your browser's cache and cookies can help resolve connectivity issues between QuickBooks and your bank.

5. What if none of these solutions work?

If the problem persists after trying all solutions, it’s advisable to contact QuickBooks support for further assistance. They can help troubleshoot the issue and provide you with more advanced solutions.

Contact QuickBooks Support

If you’ve tried all of the above steps and are still unable to resolve QuickBooks Error 179, don’t hesitate to contact QuickBooks Support. They have a dedicated team of professionals who can assist you with troubleshooting and resolving the issue.

QuickBooks Support Phone Number: +1 (855) 738-0359

Feel free to reach out to QuickBooks support for personalized assistance, and they’ll guide you through the process of resolving the error.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 179 can be frustrating, but it’s often a solvable issue. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can usually resolve the problem on your own. Remember to always keep QuickBooks and your bank credentials updated, and ensure your internet connection is stable for a seamless experience. If the issue persists, QuickBooks Support is available to help you resolve the problem efficiently.