How to Fix QuickBooks Error C=272 (Database Error)?

QuickBooks Error C=272 is a database error that typically occurs during data verification or rebuild utilities. It can also appear when opening a memorized report. The error is often caused by data corruption, missing files, or issues with the Windows registry. This error may disrupt the normal operation of QuickBooks, causing slowdowns or preventing access to certain files.

To fix this error, ensure you have access to a recent backup of your company file and administrator privileges on your computer. QuickBooks should be updated to the latest version. Follow the 4 effective solutions to fix QuickBooks Error Code C=272 mentioned below:

Solution 1: Disable Compatibility Mode

Certain files do not open due to compatibility issues, and QuickBooks stops functioning in current settings. Follow the steps given below to disable the compatibility mode:

Step 1: Open QuickBooks Sample Company File

1. Press and hold the CTRL key.
2. When the No Company Open window appears, release the CTRL key.
3. If the error appears before the window opens, skip to the next step.

4. Click Open Sample File and select a sample file from the list.
5. If the sample file opens without error, verify and rebuild your company data or restore from a backup.
6. If an error appears with the sample file, proceed to the next steps.

Step 2: Disable Compatibility Mode for QuickBooks Desktop

1. Right-click the QuickBooks Desktop shortcut.
2. Select Properties.

3. Go to the Compatibility tab.

4. Uncheck the box Run this program in compatibility mode.
5. Click OK to apply the changes.

Step 3: Disable Compatibility Mode for QBW32.EXE

1. Right-click the QuickBooks icon on your desktop.
2. Select Properties.
3. Open the QuickBooks installation folder and select the QuickBooks shortcut.
4. Click Find Target.
5. Right-click on QBW32.EXE and select Properties.
6. Remove the tick mark from ‘Run this program in compatibility mode’ in the Compatibility tab.
7. Click OK and close the window.

Step 4: Restart QuickBooks

1. Open QBDT and then the company file.

2. Check if the error has been resolved.

Solution 2: Use the Rebuild Data Tool

Minor data corruption present in the company file can be fixed by using the Rebuilt Data Tool. Follow the steps given below:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop > File menu.
2. Select Utilities and click on Rebuild Data.
3. The QuickBooks Information window will appear. Click OK.
4. A backup of your company file will start. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the backup.
5. The repair process will begin. Wait for it to finish.
6. To confirm the repair is running, move the cursor. If it moves, the tool is working.
7. When done, click OK.
8. Go back to the File menu, select Utilities > Verify Data.
9. QuickBooks will check for errors. If no errors are found, click OK and continue working.

Solution 3: Re-sort the Report Lists

Data must be organized in a logical manner to avoid any database errors in QuickBooks. Here are the steps to re-sort the report lists in QuickBooks.

• In QuickBooks, go to the Reports menu.
• Select Memorized Reports > Memorized Reports List.
• From the drop-down, choose Re-sort List.
• Click Yes to confirm.
• Try to use the memorized report again. Check if error C=272 is resolved.

Solution 4: Recreate the Memorized Report Group

Recreating the Memorized Report Group resolves QuickBooks Error C=272 by eliminating corrupted data and resetting the report settings to their default configuration. Here’s how you can do this.

1. Back up your QuickBooks company file.
2. In QuickBooks, go to the Reports menu and click on Memorized Reports, then select Memorized Report List.
3. From the Memorized Report drop-down, choose New Group.
4. Name the new group “Z Do Not Use” and click OK.
5. Move the damaged reports to this new group:
   • Right-click on the affected report and select Edit Memorized Report.
   • Check the Save in Memorized Report Group box.
   • From the drop-down, choose Z Do Not Use.
6. Repeat this for all non-working reports.
7. Create 15 to 20 new memorized reports and store them in the Z Do Not Use group.
8. Click Memorized Report, select Re-sort List, and click OK.
9. Close QuickBooks and reopen it.
10. Recreate and memorize the reports as needed.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Error C=272?

• Access a recent backup of your company file to restore data if the error is due to corruption.
• Ensure you have administrator privileges on your computer to use QuickBooks repair tools, such as the “Rebuild Data” function.
• Make sure QuickBooks is updated to the latest version for smooth troubleshooting.
• Verify sufficient system resources (e.g., disk space) for the repair process.

How to Identify QuickBooks Error C=272?

• The error code “C=272” appears within QuickBooks, typically during data verification, rebuild utilities, or when opening a memorized report.
• This error suggests data corruption in the QuickBooks company file or related system components.
• It may indicate missing files, damaged data, or problems with the Windows registry.
• Users may experience disruptions or slowdowns while accessing reports or using QuickBooks tools.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error C=272?

• Keep QuickBooks updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
• Run QuickBooks as an administrator for proper functionality.
• Disable compatibility mode for QuickBooks to prevent conflicts.
• Regularly check for and install Windows updates to prevent conflicts with QuickBooks.
• Perform routine system maintenance to keep files and settings optimized.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Error C=272?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Error C=272 if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue or if the error persists after multiple attempts. If the error indicates significant data corruption or if you’re unable to restore data from a backup, it’s best to consult experts.

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