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An Expert Guide to Resolve QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF

  • jamesaultman812Hy8n
  • 2 minutes ago
  • 4 min read

QuickBooks users can save financial statements, reports, and forms into PDF files by using the PDF printer it offers. You may view the PDF files on any device that supports the PDF format, and they are relatively small. 


QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF
QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF

Passwords can also be used to secure files containing private client or business financial information, and QuickBooks can transmit these files directly from the program. Although it typically requires considerable time and effort, QB users can also create PDF files using third-party PDF printers, such as Adobe PDF.


For this reason, the built-in PDF printer is frequently used. QuickBooks cannot save your form as a PDF file, as indicated by the error message QuickBooks cannot create a PDF, which you often encounter.


Key Factors Leading to QuickBooks Not Creating PDF

If you are unable to save your form as a PDF file, the reasons are mentioned below that are responsible for it:

  • QB is facing an issue opening the Temp folder

  • Update Windows 10XPS document writer device

  • The XPS document writer may be found faulty


Ways to Resolve the Error Message: QuickBooks Save as PDF Not Working

We have listed down the best solutions that will help you to eliminate the PDF issue from your device smoothly. 


Step 1: The QuickBooks PDF & Print Repair program should be downloaded and run

  • Transferring and using the QuickBooks Print and PDF Repair Tool is the first step

  • Upon device completion, attempt to work on the .pdf file that initially triggered the problem

  • Kindly restart your laptop and try again if the issue persists

  • Verify whether printing to save as a PDF is possible for your XPS document, and address author email issues

  • Utilize components of the Microsoft Windows application XPS Document Writer to save PDFs as QuickBooks files

  • Open Notepad and type anything you want

  • Now, find File on the upper left and choose Print

  • Click on Print after choosing the author of the XPS document

  • To ignore the waste dialogue box, click on your desktop


Step 2: Adjust the Permissions for the TEMP Folder

  • To access the Run window, use Windows Key + R after closing QuickBooks

  • After typing in %TEMP%, select OK

  • Right-click on a blank area in the temporary folder, then select Properties

  • Make sure every user name and group has Full Control by going to the Security page

  • Click Save after setting the permissions to Full Control if not

  • After clicking OK to close the window, try saving it as a PDF in QuickBooks once more


Step 3: Try a Different Method for PDF Saving

  • Open the invoice in QuickBooks that you want to save as a PDF

  • Choose Print Invoice from the File menu rather than Save as PDF

  • Microsoft Print to PDF is the printer name you should select


Make that the XPS Document Writer is the source of the error


  • Quit QuickBooks and open Notepad instead

  • You should type any text over there > and then hit the File menu

  • Choose the Print and mention the file name 

  • Now, save the file on your screen to check whether the file is correct or not

  • And if you are unable to open the file, then the issue is in the Microsoft XPS Document Writer

Conclusion 

In this blog, we have conducted extensive research to provide you with the best and most trustworthy information regarding why QuickBooks cannot create a PDF. Moreover, if you are unable to work on this error, dial +1(855)-738–0359 and connect with our team instantly. 


Frequently Asked Questions About QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF

What does the “QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF” error mean?

  • This error indicates that QuickBooks is unable to generate or save a PDF file from invoices, reports, or other documents. It usually occurs when there’s a problem with your PDF converter, printer settings, or Windows permissions that prevent QuickBooks from completing the process.

Why does QuickBooks fail to create a PDF file?

  • QuickBooks may fail to create a PDF due to damaged printer drivers, outdated Adobe Acrobat Reader, missing XPS Document Writer, or incorrect system settings. It can also happen if the temporary folders or permissions in Windows are not properly configured.

How can I know if my PDF converter is causing the issue?

  • If QuickBooks cannot create PDF files and shows a converter-related error, try printing a test file from another program. If that fails too, the problem lies within your PDF converter or its driver, not QuickBooks itself.

Can outdated Adobe Acrobat Reader trigger this QuickBooks PDF issue?

  • Yes, outdated or incompatible versions of Adobe Acrobat Reader can cause conflicts with QuickBooks. Updating or reinstalling Adobe Reader often resolves PDF generation issues and improves compatibility between both applications.

Is the “QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF” error related to printer setup?

  • In many cases, yes. QuickBooks relies on the XPS Document Writer and printer drivers to create PDFs. If these are damaged or not set up properly, QuickBooks may fail to generate a PDF. Checking printer configuration and reinstalling drivers can fix this.

Does user permission affect QuickBooks PDF creation?

  • Absolutely. If your Windows user account lacks permission to access temporary folders or printer drivers, QuickBooks will struggle to create PDFs. Running QuickBooks as an administrator or adjusting folder permissions can often solve this.

Can temporary files or folders cause QuickBooks PDF errors?

  • Yes, corrupted or overloaded temporary files can prevent QuickBooks from creating new PDF documents. Clearing the temp folder and restarting your computer can remove these barriers and allow QuickBooks to work smoothly.

Is there any impact of Windows updates on QuickBooks PDF creation?

  • Sometimes, after a Windows update, printer drivers or PDF settings reset or become incompatible. This can lead to QuickBooks being unable to create PDFs. Reinstalling the PDF converter or updating QuickBooks usually resolves this.

How do I confirm if my QuickBooks version supports PDF creation?

  • Most modern QuickBooks versions support direct PDF export. However, older or outdated versions might encounter compatibility issues with newer Windows systems. Updating QuickBooks to the latest release ensures stable PDF functionality.

Can the “QuickBooks Cannot Create PDF” error affect invoice printing?

  • Yes, if QuickBooks cannot create a PDF, it may also fail to print invoices, estimates, or reports. Both actions depend on the same printer and PDF components. Fixing the underlying PDF issue will usually restore printing capability too.

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