How to Fix the QuickBooks Payroll Submit Button Not Working for Contractor Entries

Many QuickBooks users encounter an issue when entering contractor information in QuickBooks Payroll: the Submit button does nothing, even when all required fields are filled. This problem can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to pay contractors or update payroll records.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explain why this happens, common causes, and step-by-step solutions to get your QuickBooks Payroll Submit button working properly. We’ll also provide tips to prevent similar issues in the future.

Why the Submit Button Fails in QuickBooks Payroll Contractor Entries

When entering contractor information, you might notice that clicking the Submit button does not save your data. This issue usually occurs due to:

1. Incomplete or incorrect fields: Even if all visible fields are filled, there may be hidden required fields or validation errors.

2. Browser or software glitches: If using QuickBooks Online, browser cache or outdated versions can interfere with functionality.

3. Permissions or access issues: Your user role may not have sufficient rights to submit contractor info.

4. Outdated QuickBooks Desktop or Payroll version: Some buttons may not function properly in older software versions.

5. Third-party conflicts: Add-ons or integrations may sometimes block payroll actions.

Understanding these causes will help you troubleshoot efficiently. 

Also Read: How to Successfully Migrate from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online Payroll Core

Step 1: Verify All Contractor Fields

Even if the fields appear filled, QuickBooks may require:

• Contractor legal name

• Email address (for 1099 filing notifications)

• Tax ID or Social Security number

• Payment method (direct deposit or check)

• Address and contact info

Pro Tip: Scroll through all sections and tabs carefully. QuickBooks may mark a field as required even if it looks optional.

Step 2: Check for Software Updates

Using an outdated version of QuickBooks Desktop or QuickBooks Online Payroll can cause the Submit button to malfunction.

QuickBooks Desktop:

1. Go to Help → Update QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Click Update Now, then Get Updates.

3. Restart QuickBooks and try submitting the contractor info again.

QuickBooks Online Payroll:

1. Refresh your browser.

2. Clear cache and cookies.

3. Ensure your browser is up to date (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox recommended).

Step 3: Verify User Permissions

If you do not have sufficient access rights, QuickBooks will prevent submission:

• In QuickBooks Desktop, check under Company → Set Up Users and Roles.

• Ensure your role has Full Access to Payroll.

• In QuickBooks Online, navigate to Settings → Manage Users and verify your role allows editing payroll.

If permissions are restricted, contact your QuickBooks administrator to adjust access. 

Also Read: How to Set Up the New Shipping Manager in QuickBooks Desktop

Step 4: Disable Conflicting Add-ons or Integrations

Third-party apps or browser extensions can sometimes interfere:

• Temporarily disable browser extensions.

• Check for integrations with QuickBooks Online that may block payroll updates.

• Restart QuickBooks and attempt the submission again.

Step 5: Run QuickBooks Tool Hub (Desktop Only)

For QuickBooks Desktop users, the QuickBooks Tool Hub can fix common issues:

1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.

2. Open Tool Hub and select Program Problems → Quick Fix my Program.

3. Restart QuickBooks and try submitting contractor info again.

This often resolves UI glitches, including unresponsive buttons.

Step 6: Check Your Internet Connection (Online Users)

QuickBooks Online Payroll Submit issues can sometimes be caused by unstable internet connections:

• Use a wired connection if possible.

• Ensure your network firewall allows QuickBooks Online access.

• Try a different browser to rule out browser-specific issues.

Step 7: Create a New Contractor Entry

If the issue persists, try creating a new contractor entry from scratch:

1. Go to Workers → Contractors → Add a Contractor.

2. Enter the required information carefully.

3. Attempt to click Submit again.

Sometimes, corrupted entries can prevent the button from functioning. Starting fresh resolves the issue.

Step 8: Contact QuickBooks Payroll Support

If none of the above steps resolve the problem, contact QuickBooks Payroll Support. Professional support can:

• Identify underlying software glitches

• Correct hidden field errors or database issues

• Walk you through advanced troubleshooting

Call 844-753-8012 for expert QuickBooks assistance.

Pro Tip: Keep your QuickBooks license number and contractor details handy when calling support to speed up the process.

Preventing Submit Button Issues in the Future

To minimize similar problems:

1. Keep QuickBooks updated: Regular updates reduce bugs and glitches.

2. Double-check required fields: Even small errors can block submission.

3. Use supported browsers: QuickBooks Online works best on Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.

4. Limit third-party extensions: Only use essential integrations.

5. Maintain proper user roles: Ensure all payroll editors have sufficient permissions.

Conclusion

The QuickBooks Payroll Submit button not working for contractor entries is a common but solvable problem. By carefully verifying required fields, updating software, checking permissions, and using the QuickBooks Tool Hub, most users can resolve the issue quickly.

For persistent issues, professional help is available. Call QuickBooks Payroll Support at 844-753-8012 to fix submission errors and get back to managing your payroll efficiently.

Keeping your QuickBooks system updated, your user roles properly assigned, and your contractor info accurate will prevent this issue from recurring.

FAQs