Why can't I update Quickbooks?
Updating Quickbooks with AutoElevate.
Written by Daniel Rivera
Updated at July 14th, 2025
Table of Contents
Simplifying QuickBooks Updates with AutoElevate:
We are aware of a limitation in QuickBooks' design: it does not prompt for User Account Control (UAC) when launched by standard users. As a result, when standard users need to update QuickBooks, they must manually right-click the application and select "Run as Administrator". This action triggers UAC and subsequently activates AutoElevate.
To simplify this process for end-users, some clients have adopted the following approach:
Create an "Update QuickBooks" Shortcut:
- Place a new shortcut next to the standard QuickBooks shortcut.
- Name it "QuickBooks Update".
Set Shortcut Properties to "Run As Admin":
- Configure the "QuickBooks Update" shortcut to "Run As Admin" from its properties. This eliminates the need for users to right-click and select "Run As Admin."
- Right Click the icon and select properties
- On the shortcut tab, click on the Advanced button
- Check the “Run as Administrator” and click OK
- Click OK to save the shortcut.
Elevation Type
Additionally, you may need to adjust your AutoElevate rule to use "User Elevation" instead of "Admin." This change ensures that the elevation occurs within the context of the logged-in user, rather than relying on an "over-the-shoulder" account. You can find detailed instructions in this article: Elevation Types.
By implementing these steps, you can simplify the QuickBooks update process for your users and ensure that AutoElevate functions smoothly with QuickBooks' UAC limitations.