QuickBooks Accountant's copy is a different version of the data file used to review your books and make changes to your data while working on the company file at the same time. It is a secure way of exchanging data with your accountant. However, sometimes while you try to create an accountant's copy, QuickBooks may throw errors, like Error: Unable to create Accountant's Copy or Error: Accountant's Copy Exist or Error: Failed or a big red "X" when working on Accountant's Copy. These errors can sometimes become difficult to tackle if not handled properly. So, to get a clear view of how you can resolve issues while creating your accountant’s copy in QuickBooks, follow the complete article.

Get help in resolving the Unable to Create Accountant's Copy error by placing a call to the toll-free number +1-(855)-955-1942

What are the Causes Behind You Are Not Able To Create an Accountant's Copy?

Various reasons why you might face issues while creating an accountant’s copy in QuickBooks are:

Your QB application needs to be updated to a newer version.

Your QBW file is greater than 200 MB.

Your internet connection is very slow, so your QB can not perform the task properly.

Your Firewall settings are interrupting the upload process.

You have a damaged data file.

This issue can also happen if you enter a long dash in Microsoft Word and then copy it into your notes. In Microsoft Word, a protracted dash is created by inserting two single dashes between the two hyphenated words.

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Follow the given solutions to fix any issue that you face while creating an accountant’s copy:

If you have a long dash, then do the following:

You need to insert the text directly in the notes to the clients without long dashes.

You can generate this text using the Windows Text editor and then paste it from there.

You can also email the MS Word document to your customer with the file converted to QBY.

Also, try to avoid using long dash in MS Word; however, a single dash can work.

In this process, we will check if the size of the QB company file is more than 200 MB. If yes, then try the below-given steps to reduce its size.

Go to the QB company file and open it.

After that, click on the F2 button on the keyboard and open the Product Information window.

Here, if you see that the file size is more than 200 MB, then restore QuickBooks Desktop portable company file (*.qbm)

Alternatively, you can also manually save and send the  QBX / QBY file instead of using your accountant file transfer service.

Hopefully, the blog above will help you in resolving the Unable To Create Accountant's Copy issue, and you will be able to create it after that. However, if you get stuck over any other thing while performing the above-mentioned steps, then we recommend you to connect with our QB experts at the Toll-free number +1-(855)-955-1942.

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Here are some important Q/A: Unable to Create Accountant's Copy.

Q1: Why can't I create an Accountant's Copy in QuickBooks?
A: This usually happens due to damaged company files, network restrictions, or outdated QuickBooks versions. Ensure the file isn't hosted on a non-local drive and update QuickBooks to the latest release.

Q2: Can file size affect creating an Accountant’s Copy?
A: Yes. If the company file is too large (over 200MB), it may fail to create the Accountant’s Copy. Try condensing your file or sending a backup copy instead.

Q3: What should I do if the Accountant’s Copy freezes at 0%?
A: This might be due to a background service or firewall interference. Restart your PC, disable the firewall temporarily, and try again.

Q4: Does hosting affect Accountant’s Copy creation?
A: Yes. If multiple users are accessing the file or it's hosted on a server, switch to single-user mode and try again locally.

Q5: What file naming rules should I follow for an Accountant’s Copy?
A: Avoid using special characters in the file name. Stick to letters, numbers, and underscores to ensure compatibility.

Q6: Can a corrupt .ND or .TLG file block the Accountant's Copy?
A: Absolutely. Rename or delete the .ND and .TLG files in the company folder—QuickBooks will recreate them automatically.

Q7: Why is the “Send to Accountant” option grayed out?
A: You might not be in the correct company file or using a limited-access user. Make sure you're logged in as Admin in Single-User Mode.

Q8: What should I check if I get a “File in Use” error?
A: Make sure no other users or services are accessing the file. Close all connected QuickBooks sessions and retry.

Q9: Is QuickBooks Online affected by this issue?
A: No. The Accountant’s Copy feature is only available in QuickBooks Desktop editions like Pro, Premier, and Enterprise.