Fix Bank Error 179 in QuickBooks^® Online 

If you encounter error 179 when trying to access your company file or update transactions in QuickBooks Online, this can feel like a roadblock in your workflow. In most cases, this error is caused by an issue with internet connectivity, outdated software, or corrupted data. QuickBooks Error 179 can be one of those pesky QB Online problems that keeps you from getting things done. Whether you’re having trouble logging in or updating transactions, this error can disrupt your workflow.  It occurs when your bank’s website rejects your login attempt, typically because you are already logged in elsewhere.  

You might see this message if you forgot to close the bank’s app properly or logged out, but the bank’s servers haven’t acknowledged the request. The process can take up to 15 minutes to complete. Although this error might seem complicated, there’s an easy fix. 

Whether you need to clear the cache in your browser, check internet settings, or give the bank servers some time to reset, there are simple solutions you can try. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the common signs, possible reasons, and how to resolve QuickBooks Error 179 so that you can get back to managing your finances. So, let’s get started!

QuickBooks Error 179: Red Flags to Watch Out For

“Red Flags to Watch Out For” refers to warning signs that indicate the presence of QuickBooks Error 179. Identifying these red flags early can help prevent further complications and ensure a smooth banking reconciliation process. Here are the common signs that a user should not miss in order to prevent this error:

• Bank Connection Failure: QuickBooks is unable to connect to or download data from your bank. 

• Incorrect Bank Balance: Your QuickBooks balance does not match your bank account balance. 

• Login Issues: When trying to sync with QuickBooks, you are repeatedly logged out of your bank’s website. 

• Missing Bank Transactions: After updating the bank feed, recent transactions do not appear in QuickBooks. 

• Error Message: QuickBooks displays “Error 179” when you try to access or update your bank account. 

• Account Freezes: When syncing with your bank account, QuickBooks temporarily freezes or crashes. 

• Duplicate Entries: QuickBooks bank feeds or account registers show duplicate transactions. 

A connection problem between QuickBooks and your bank indicates that it needs to be resolved quickly. But do you know what are the possible reasons that trigger QuickBooks Error 179? Well, let’s take a look at them too.

Also Read: How to Connect Bank and Credit Card Accounts to QuickBooks Online?

Causes of QuickBooks Error 179 

The most common cause of QuickBooks Error 179 is a problem connecting to your bank or credit card. The following are some common causes:

• Incorrect Login Credentials: QuickBooks cannot connect to your bank account if your login credentials (username or password) are incorrect.

• Bank Website Changes: Occasionally, banks update their websites, which may cause QuickBooks to malfunction. 

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): QuickBooks might not be able to log in automatically if your bank uses MFA. 

• Bank Server Issues: Outages or problems with your bank’s server can prevent QuickBooks from connecting. 

• Outdated QuickBooks Version: An outdated version of QuickBooks may cause bank connection issues. 

• Firewall or Security Software: Your computer’s firewall or security settings may prevent QuickBooks from connecting to the bank. 

• Incorrect Bank Account Setup: QuickBooks can cause errors if your bank account is not set up correctly. 

• Bank Website Maintenance: Occasionally, your bank’s website may be unavailable due to scheduled maintenance or updates. 

Update your credentials, check for software updates, and ensure that QuickBooks can access your bank’s website to resolve these issues. 

Troubleshoot QuickBooks Error Code 179 

QuickBooks Error 179 can be easily resolved with a few simple troubleshooting steps. By following these steps, you can reconnect QuickBooks to your bank with ease. 

Tip: Try updating again 15–30 minutes after encountering Error 179 when connecting an account for the first time. It is possible for the account to automatically update overnight as a result of a new banking aggregation. 

1. Log Out of the Bank Website or App

Make sure your bank’s website or mobile app is completely logged out. Wait at least 15 minutes before trying to log in again after logging out. When a bank server processes a logout request or clears an active session, it may take some time.

2. Clear Your Browser’s Cache and Cookies

When your browser stores outdated data, it can interfere with QuickBooks Online’s connection to the bank. To clear your browser’s cache and cookies, follow these steps: 

Google Chrome:

• To access the three-dot menu, click the top-right corner. 
• In Settings, select Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data. 
• Check the “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
   
• Then click Clear data. 
• Follow the same steps if you’re using another browser, such as Edge, Firefox, or Safari. 
• Restart your browser and try reconnecting to the bank. 

3. Turn off your mobile device’s bank app

If you are using your bank’s mobile app, make sure it is closed completely. If you minimize the app, the bank won’t receive a proper logout request.

• For Android Users: Open the recent apps menu and swipe up from the bottom of the screen to close the app. 

• For iOS: Press the home button or swipe up from the bottom of the screen, then swipe away the bank app.

4. Verify that no one else is Logged into the Bank Account

Confirm that no one else is logged in to the bank’s website or app if you have a joint account. QuickBooks Error 179 can be caused by shared login sessions. Avoid overlapping logins by coordinating with other account holders. 

5. Verify QuickBooks Online Connections

• Make sure only one QuickBooks Online account is linked to your bank account. 
• Multiple QuickBooks accounts connected to the same bank account can lead to login rejections and syncing problems. 
• Keep only the QuickBooks Online connections you need. Disconnect unnecessary connections. 

Following these steps should resolve Error 179 and restore the connection between QuickBooks and your bank account. 

Summary  

Think of Error 179 as a reminder that even technology takes time to catch up. Every step you take, from giving your bank’s servers 15 minutes to processing a logout to clearing your browser’s cache, is like untangling a knot in your workflow. The most common causes of this error can be eliminated by logging out of your bank’s website or app, clearing your browser’s cache and cookies, and closing any active mobile banking apps. You can also resolve conflicts if you’re using a joint account by checking that no one else is logged in and verifying your bank’s connection to just one QuickBooks Online account. 

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can ensure QuickBooks, and your bank are connected smoothly, so you can continue managing your finances without interruption. In the event the error persists, it’s best advised to reach out to your bank or get in touch with our QuickBooks Online experts for assistance.  

Frequently Asked Questions