Quickbooks error 2147221164 arises in different situations, hindering the users from running a tax form worksheet, getting payroll reports, and generating W2/W3 forms. This can be caused by problems with Microsoft Office or in the application. You might receive an error message that reads:

“Error: 2147221164(80040154) Class not registered has occurred in the following procedure: StartQBSession.”

However, don’t panic, as there are proven solutions to resolve this error run time error 2147221164. Moreover, for faster resolution of your query, contact QB Proadvisors at TFN.

Reasons For Class Not Registered Run-time Error -2147221164

The reasons that lead to Class Not Registered Run-time Error -2147221164 in QuickBooks can stem from installation issues or problems in Windows. Here is the list of all the reasons for the run time error:

You may have an inactive payroll subscription

There are chances that Microsoft Office files may be damaged

You might be using a version of QuickBooks that is outdated

You might lack the minimum requirement for QuickBooks installed on your system.




Best Ways To Resolve 2147221164 Class Not Registered Error

After you understand the 2147221164 class not registered error, the next step is to carry out the troubleshooting methods listed below.

Check the system requirements

Before using QuickBooks Desktop on your computer, you must verify the specifications. Check that your system meets the minimum specifications required by QB Desktop. 

The computer should have Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11, or Windows Server 2019, Windows 2016, For Windows 2012, For Windows 2012 R2, Windows Small Business Server 2011, Standard and Essentials. Moreover, the minimum RAM required is 4GB, and free disk space of 5GB. 


Update QuickBooks Desktop Application

The Quickbooks error 2147221164 Windows 10, or in any other Windows, can be caused by small issues in QuickBooks software. The update often fixes this issue and helps resolve common errors. Therefore, follow the steps below to update the QB desktop:

Open the QB Desktop

Click on the Help menu followed by the option to Update QuickBooks Desktop

Now, select Update Now, and check the Reset Update row.

Click on Get Updates.

Remove the previous updates that were downloaded earlier.

Now, continue with Ok. 

Once the update is downloaded, restart the application and continue your operation.

Check if the QB Desktop is working properly or if the issue persists.


You should also know this: Unlock the Full Power of QuickBooks Payroll with These Pro Tips

Repair Microsoft Office

The class not registered run-time error -2147221164 can arise if there are issues in Microsoft Application. Therefore, you need to repair the Microsoft Office with the help of the steps given below:

Press the Windows Start icon or Windows button on the keyboard

In the menu, click on Apps and Features

Now, in the list of programs, click on Microsoft Excel.

Choose the option to modify it.

Now launch the repair process for Microsoft Office Excel.

Talk to an Expert

The above methods should help resolve the QuickBooks Error 2147221164 in the desktop version. However, if the error persists even after trying these solutions, you should contact QB Proadvisors. Dial TFN, and get the QB error resolved soon.


Here are some important Q/A QuickBooks Error 2147221164.


Q1: What is QuickBooks Error 2147221164?
A: This error is a COM-related issue that appears when QuickBooks can't communicate properly with Microsoft applications like Excel or Outlook. It’s typically triggered by damaged components, outdated Office versions, or incorrect Windows user settings. Restarting your PC, updating MS Office, and repairing QuickBooks can help resolve the issue.

Q2: Why does Error 2147221164 pop up when emailing invoices in QuickBooks?
A: The error occurs when QuickBooks fails to connect with Outlook. Common reasons include missing email integration, Outlook not being set as the default mail app, or a damaged QuickBooks installation. Ensure Outlook is default, then reconfigure your email preferences inside QuickBooks.

Q3: Can a Windows update trigger QuickBooks Error 2147221164?
A: Yes, recent Windows updates can sometimes break compatibility between QuickBooks and Office applications. This COM error may appear if Office DLL files are unregistered or corrupted after the update. Try performing a QuickBooks and Microsoft Office repair.

Read about this: Why Is QuickBooks Payroll Not Deducting Taxes? Troubleshooting

Q4: Does QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2021 show this error more than other versions?
A: Not necessarily. Error 2147221164 can affect any QuickBooks Desktop version, though it’s more common when third-party integrations or Office versions are outdated. Keeping both QuickBooks and Office fully updated is the best prevention.

Q5: Is there a permanent fix for Error 2147221164?
A: While the error can recur, you can minimize risk by:

Running QuickBooks and Outlook as Administrator

Keeping Office and Windows updated

Using a trusted Windows profile
If issues persist, a full repair or reinstall of QuickBooks may be necessary.

Q6: Can damaged Windows user profiles cause COM Errors in QuickBooks?
A: Yes. If the Windows profile is corrupt or lacks proper permissions, QuickBooks might struggle to access COM components. Creating a new admin user and testing QuickBooks can confirm if the profile is the problem.