You might end up getting a printer not activated error code -20 while updating the QB Desktop application. It comes along with a message stating: “Printer not activated, error code -20.”

If we talk about the factors that might lead to such an issue, then an improper QB setup, incompatibility between QB and Windows Operating System version, and uninstalled QB are among them. 

Consequently, you won’t be able to print payslips, forms, or PDFs. Moreover, this can also prevent you from emailing invoices to customers. So, dive deeper into the page and reinstate your QB performance. 

Possible Reasons Behind QuickBooks Printer is Not Activated Error -20

Let us walk you through the section that contains a list of triggering factors of the printer not activated error -20.

• You may get into this problem if there are issues with the Windows registry.

• The error may occur if the QB Desktop version is not compatible with the Windows Operating System.

• When the QB PDF converter is not set up appropriately. 

• If the wrong printer is set to be the default one.

• Or when the QB program is uninstalled.

Note:- QuickBooks Error 30134 occurs when the company file is damaged or network issues prevent multi-user access, blocking smooth accounting operations.

Ways to Resolve the Printer Not Activated Error Code -20

This section contains up to 3 practical methods that are already proven to be effective in resolving the " printer not activated error 20”. See how to implement them:

Fix 1: Delete qbprint.qbp & wpr.inio files

• Access the Windows File Manager and head to the C:\ProgramData \Intuit \QuickBooks folder.

• You are required to right-click on the QBPrint.qbp & wpr.ini files.

• Pick the Delete option from the QuickBooks folder.

• At this step, delete the qbprint.qbp & wpr.ini files from the C:\Users \All Users \Intuit \QuickBooks folder.

Fix 2: Run QB Print and PDF Repair Tool

• First, you need to download and install the latest version of the QB Tool Hub.

• Open the Tool Hub on your computer.

• Head over to the Program Problems.

• Click on the QuickBooks PDF and Print Repair Tool.

• Give the tool time to run and fix issues.

• When the tool finishes, restart your computer and see if the error is resolved. 

Fix 3: Activate the Windows Print Spooler service

• Open the Run window by pressing the Win+R keys on the keyboard.

• In the search space, input services.msc.

• Tap on the Enter key.

• Search for the Print Spooler service in the services list.

• Then, right-click on it and choose Start.

• Finally, try to print any document. 

Fix 4: Set full control access

• Press the Windows key and type regedit.

• Right-click on regedit.

• Choose Run as Administrator.

• Head to the HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG folder.

• Right-click on this folder and choose Permissions.

• Tap on Full Control for Users.

• Choose OK and close the Registry Editor.

• Open QB and try to print a PDF. 

FAQs About QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code -20

What is QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code -20?

• QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error Code -20 occurs when the software fails to recognize or activate the installed printer, preventing printing of invoices, reports, or checks. This error can disrupt daily accounting workflows and requires immediate attention.

Why does Printer Error Code -20 occur in QuickBooks?

• This error often appears due to missing printer drivers, incorrect printer setup, outdated QuickBooks versions, or conflicts with system permissions. QuickBooks cannot communicate properly with the printer until these issues are resolved.

Can outdated QuickBooks versions trigger Printer Error -20?

• Yes, older versions of QuickBooks may lack compatibility with new printers or updated drivers, which can prevent successful printer activation. Updating QuickBooks often resolves the problem.

Do printer driver issues cause Error Code -20?

• Incorrect, corrupted, or missing printer drivers are one of the main causes of this error. QuickBooks relies on accurate drivers to communicate with the printer for document and check printing.

Can system permissions lead to QuickBooks Printer Not Activated Error?

• Yes, insufficient administrative permissions can prevent QuickBooks from accessing the printer. Running QuickBooks as an administrator often helps resolve activation errors.

Does network printer setup affect this error?

• For network or shared printers, connectivity issues or improper configuration can trigger Error Code -20. Ensuring the printer is online and properly connected is essential for smooth QuickBooks printing.

How does this error impact daily accounting tasks?

• Printer Error -20 can delay printing invoices, checks, and financial reports. In businesses relying on physical documentation, this interruption can affect billing, payroll, and record-keeping.

Can reinstalling the printer fix Error Code -20?

• Yes, removing and reinstalling the printer with updated drivers can often resolve activation issues and restore proper communication with QuickBooks.

Does QuickBooks hosting mode affect printer activation?

• Yes, in multi-user or hosted environments, improper hosting configuration can prevent printer recognition. Ensuring correct hosting and user permissions helps avoid activation errors.

Is it necessary to update system settings to fix this error?

• Yes, verifying default printer settings, system permissions, and QuickBooks preferences ensures that the software recognizes the printer and eliminates Error Code -20.

Can antivirus or firewall settings cause this printer error?

• Sometimes, security software may block QuickBooks from accessing the printer. Configuring exceptions in antivirus or firewall settings may be required to fix the error.

Why is resolving Printer Not Activated Error Code -20 important?

• Fixing this error promptly ensures uninterrupted printing of critical financial documents, smooth accounting operations, and accurate record-keeping without workflow delays.

Explore more:- QuickBooks Error 19062 00238 appears during payroll updates or QuickBooks installation, often caused by corrupted files, outdated software, or interrupted updates.

Conclusion

We hope that the blog is sufficient to help you understand the printer not activated error code -20. To better explain the problem, it outlines a list of factors causing it. Along with this, you will also uncover up to 4 technical methods that you can use to address it. For more information, give a call to +1(855)-510-6487 and talk to our certified QB professionals.