How to Renew QuickBooks Desktop Payroll Subscription

If you’re a business owner using QuickBooks Desktop, managing payroll efficiently is one of your most crucial responsibilities. Whether you’re setting up payroll for the first time, renewing a subscription, or reactivating after a lapse, this guide breaks down the process into 5 fast and easy methods to keep your payroll running smoothly.

In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn:

• ✅ How to add or activate QuickBooks Desktop Payroll

• 🔁 How to renew or reactivate your subscription

• 💡 The different payroll plans available

• 📞 Where to get help: Call +1 (805) 214‑4160 for support

🔹 Method 1: Add Payroll to QuickBooks Desktop via the Software

The easiest way to add a payroll subscription is directly through your QuickBooks Desktop software. Here’s how:

👣 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop and make sure you're using an active version (Pro Plus, Premier Plus, or Enterprise 2025).

2. Click the Employees tab in the top menu.

3. Select Payroll Setup or Get Payroll.

4. You’ll be prompted to choose a plan (Enhanced, Basic, or Assisted Payroll).

5. Follow the on-screen steps to:

   • Log in to your Intuit account

   • Provide your billing details

   • Activate your subscription

🎉 Once completed, your payroll features will be enabled, and you can start paying employees, calculating taxes, and filing reports.

🔹 Method 2: Subscribe Online via Intuit’s Official Website

If you prefer to set up your payroll subscription online, you can purchase a plan directly from Intuit and link it to your desktop software.

🌐 Steps to Subscribe Online:

1. Visit: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/payroll/desktop/

2. Review the plans:

   • Enhanced Payroll: DIY tax filings and W-2s

   • Assisted Payroll: Intuit handles tax payments and filings for you

3. Click Buy Now under your preferred plan.

4. Sign in with your Intuit credentials or create an account.

5. Complete your company and payment information.

6. Follow the activation instructions sent via email.

Once activated, open QuickBooks Desktop and go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Info to confirm your subscription is linked.

🔹 Method 3: Renew Your Payroll Subscription Before It Expires

Renewing your payroll subscription ensures uninterrupted access to direct deposit, tax calculations, and e-filing.

🔁 Here’s How to Renew:

Option 1: Inside QuickBooks Desktop

1. Open QuickBooks.

2. Go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information.

3. Log into your Intuit account.

4. Click Renew Now.

5. Review or update your payment method and confirm.

Option 2: Through Intuit’s Billing Portal

1. Visit: https://accounts.intuit.com

2. Sign in with your Intuit account.

3. Click Billing & Subscriptions.

4. Locate your Payroll subscription and click Renew.

5. Enter your updated payment info and submit.

💡 Pro Tip: Set your subscription to auto-renew to avoid service disruptions.

🔹 Method 4: Reactivate a Lapsed or Canceled Payroll Subscription

If your payroll subscription has expired, don't worry. Reactivation is quick and doesn’t require starting from scratch.

🔄 Reactivation Steps:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information.

3. Log in to your Intuit account when prompted.

4. Under Payroll Service, look for a message that says “Subscription Expired”.

5. Click Reactivate.

6. Update payment information and confirm.

🚨 Important: If your subscription has been inactive for several months, be sure to update any employee data and check for missed payroll tax deadlines.

🔹 Method 5: Call QuickBooks Payroll Support for Expert Help

Sometimes the fastest method is to get live support from an expert — especially if you’re experiencing errors, billing issues, or don’t know which plan is right for you.

📞 Call +1 (805) 214‑4160 for 24/7 QuickBooks Payroll Help

A trained specialist can help you with:

• Setting up a new payroll subscription

• Renewing or reactivating your account

• Fixing payroll errors

• Migrating to Assisted Payroll

• Adding or removing employees

💬 Whether you’re a beginner or experienced user, calling ensures you avoid mistakes that can lead to missed tax filings or employee payment delays.

💡 Bonus Info: Payroll Plans Available for QuickBooks Desktop

Here’s a quick overview of available payroll subscription types in 2025:

👉 Note: Assisted Payroll is only available in the U.S. and works best with QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ Is QuickBooks Desktop Payroll still available in 2025?

✅ Yes, QuickBooks Desktop Payroll is still fully supported and available for all desktop versions. You’ll need an active QuickBooks Desktop Plus or Enterprise subscription to add payroll.

❓ How much does QuickBooks Desktop Payroll cost?

Pricing varies depending on the plan:

• Enhanced Payroll: Starts at $50/month + $2/employee

• Assisted Payroll: Starts at $109/month + $2/employee

Prices may vary based on promotions and business size.

❓ Can I use payroll without a subscription?

❌ No — you must have an active subscription to access payroll features like tax calculations, W-2s, and direct deposit.

❓ How do I cancel my payroll subscription?

You can cancel anytime by:

• Logging into your Intuit account at https://accounts.intuit.com

• Calling QuickBooks Support at +1 (805) 214‑4160

✅ Final Thoughts: Stay Payroll-Ready All Year Long

Whether you're adding payroll for the first time, renewing your subscription, or troubleshooting an expired account, QuickBooks Desktop Payroll makes it easy — if you know where to start.

Following these 5 fast and easy methods, you can:

• Avoid tax penalties

• Pay employees on time

• Stay compliant with federal/state regulations

🛠️ Need help right now? Our support team is ready to guide you.

📞 Call +1 (805) 214‑4160 for expert QuickBooks Payroll assistance — 24/7.