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How to Fix QuickBooks Error 6147, 0

· 6 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Error 6147, 0 occurs when you try to open a company file or a backup file, and QuickBooks is unable to access the file due to corruption or an incorrect file path. This error is one of the errors from the 6000 series, which typically indicates issues with the company file. The error message usually states:
“Error 6147, 0: QuickBooks is unable to open the company file.”

In this guide, we’ll discuss the causes of QuickBooks Error 6147, 0 and provide step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 6147, 0​

  1. Corrupted or Damaged Company File: The company file or its backup might be corrupted.
  2. Incorrect File Path: QuickBooks cannot locate the file due to an incorrect or broken file path.
  3. Network File Permissions: Insufficient permissions to access the company file on a network drive.
  4. Damaged QuickBooks Installation: An incomplete or corrupted QuickBooks installation can lead to this error.
  5. Backup File Issues: Restoring a backup file located on a network drive or external storage can cause this error.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6147, 0​

  • You are unable to open the company file or backup file.
  • QuickBooks freezes or crashes when trying to access the file.
  • Error message 6147, 0 appears on the screen.
  • Performance issues in QuickBooks Desktop.

Steps to Fix QuickBooks Error 6147, 0​

Step 1: Move the Backup File to a Local Drive​

If you are restoring a backup file stored on an external device or network drive, move the backup file to your local drive.

  1. Locate the Backup File:
    • Find the backup file with the .qbb extension on your external storage or network drive.
  2. Copy the File:
    • Copy the backup file to a folder on your local drive (e.g., C:\QuickBooksBackup).
  3. Restore the Backup:
    • Open QuickBooks and go to File > Open or Restore Company > Restore a Backup Copy.
    • Choose Local Backup, then browse to the file location and follow the on-screen instructions to restore the backup.

Note: QuickBooks recommends restoring backups from the local drive to avoid network-related issues.

Step 2: Rename the .ND and .TLG Files​

The .ND (Network Data) and .TLG (Transaction Log) files are essential for QuickBooks to access the company file over a network. If these files are corrupted, renaming them can help resolve the issue.

  1. Locate the Files:

    • Navigate to the folder where your company file is stored. By default, this is usually C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Intuit\QuickBooks\Company Files.
    • Look for files with the same name as your company file but with .ND and .TLG extensions. For example:
      • CompanyFileName.qbw.nd
      • CompanyFileName.qbw.tlg

  2. Rename the Files:

    • Right-click on each file, select Rename, and add .old at the end of the file name. For example:
      • CompanyFileName.qbw.nd → CompanyFileName.qbw.nd.old
      • CompanyFileName.qbw.tlg → CompanyFileName.qbw.tlg.old

  3. Restart QuickBooks:

    • Open QuickBooks and try accessing the company file again. QuickBooks will recreate the .ND and .TLG files automatically.

Step 3: Run QuickBooks File Doctor Tool​

The QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool designed to fix issues with company files and network errors.

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub:

    • Visit the official Intuit website to download the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

  2. Install Tool Hub:

    • Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the Tool Hub.

  3. Run QuickBooks File Doctor:

    • Open the Tool Hub and select the Company File Issues tab.
    • Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
    • Choose your company file from the list. If it’s not listed, click Browse to locate it manually.
    • Select Check your file and then click Continue.
    • Enter your QuickBooks admin password if prompted, then click Next.

  4. Let the Tool Run:

    • The File Doctor will scan and repair your company file. Once it’s complete, try reopening the file in QuickBooks.

Step 4: Verify File Path for Multi-User Setup​

If you’re using QuickBooks in a multi-user environment, ensure that the file path is correct and accessible from all systems.

  1. Locate the File on the Server:
    • Ensure that the company file is stored on the server computer and that it is being accessed via the correct network path.
  2. Use UNC Path:
    • Instead of using a mapped drive, use the UNC (Universal Naming Convention) path to access the file. For example:
      • \\ServerName\SharedFolder\CompanyFile.qbw
  3. Verify Permissions:
    • Ensure that the folder containing the company file has Read/Write permissions for all QuickBooks users.

Step 5: Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop Using Clean Install​

If the above steps don’t resolve the error, a clean installation of QuickBooks may be required.

5.1: Uninstall QuickBooks​

  1. Go to Control Panel:
    • Open the Control Panel and navigate to Programs > Programs and Features.
  2. Find QuickBooks:
    • Select QuickBooks Desktop from the list of installed programs and click Uninstall.

5.2: Rename Installation Folders​

  1. Locate QuickBooks Folders:
    • Navigate to the following folders and rename them by adding .old at the end of their names:
      • C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks
      • C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks
  2. Clear Temporary Files:
    • Press Windows + R, type %temp%, and delete all temporary files.

5.3: Reinstall QuickBooks​

  1. Download or Insert Installation Media:
    • Use your QuickBooks installation CD or download the installer from the official Intuit website.
  2. Follow Installation Instructions:
    • Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Troubleshooting Tips​

If You’re Unable to Locate the Company File:​

  • Verify that the company file is not hidden or accidentally deleted.
  • Check your backup device or network location for a copy of the file.

If QuickBooks File Doctor Fails:​

  • Manually restore a backup file from a known working date.
  • Contact QuickBooks support for advanced troubleshooting.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Error 6147, 0 can be frustrating, but with the steps outlined above, you can resolve the issue and regain access to your company file. Whether it’s repairing file paths, running diagnostic tools, or reinstalling QuickBooks, these solutions address the root causes of the error.

If the problem persists, consider consulting with QuickBooks support or a certified QuickBooks professional to avoid disruptions to your workflow.