How to Fix QuickBooks Can’t Complete the Current Action Due to a Missing Component?

QuickBooks is a powerful accounting solution trusted by millions of businesses. However, like any software, it can sometimes run into technical errors that interrupt your workflow. One of the most common issues is the error message:

“QuickBooks can’t complete the current action due to a missing component.”

This issue usually occurs when you try to save invoices, reports, or forms as PDF files, or when emailing them directly through QuickBooks. The good news is that this error can be fixed with a few simple steps. In this guide, we’ll explain what this error means, why it happens, and provide easy fixes to help you resolve it quickly.

What Does This Error Mean?

When QuickBooks displays the message “can’t complete the current action due to a missing component,” it means that a critical Windows or QuickBooks component required for PDF functionality is either missing, damaged, or not working properly.

QuickBooks relies on certain Microsoft components such as:

• Microsoft XPS Document Writer (MXDW)
• MSXML services
• Printer drivers and settings

If any of these are damaged or misconfigured, QuickBooks cannot generate or email PDF documents, leading to this error.

Common Causes of the Error

Several factors can trigger this missing component error in QuickBooks:

• Damaged Microsoft XPS Document Write: QuickBooks uses it to create PDFs.
• Corrupt QuickBooks installation: Broken program files may prevent proper functioning.
• Outdated QuickBooks Desktop version: Older versions may have compatibility issues.
• Disabled Windows features: XPS Services or XPS Viewer may be turned off.
• Printer driver issues: Incorrect or missing drivers can block PDF generation.
• Damaged MSXML component: This prevents QuickBooks from creating documents.

Symptoms You Might Notice

• You cannot save invoices or reports as PDF.
• QuickBooks crashes or freezes when emailing forms.
• The error message keeps reappearing when performing PDF-related actions.
• “Printer not activated” errors may show up along with this issue.

Easy Fixes for QuickBooks Missing Component Error

Follow these step-by-step solutions to resolve the problem.

Fix 1: Run the QuickBooks PDF & Print Repair Tool

Intuit provides a built-in tool to fix PDF and printing errors.

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub (latest version).
2. Open it and go to Program Problems.
3. Click on QuickBooks PDF & Print Repair Tool.
4. Let the tool scan and repair issues automatically.
5. Restart QuickBooks and check if the issue is resolved.

Fix 2: Update QuickBooks to the Latest Version

Using an outdated QuickBooks version may cause missing component errors.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Select Update Now.
3. Click Get Updates and wait for the update to finish.
4. Restart QuickBooks and try saving a PDF again.

Fix 3: Repair Microsoft XPS Document Writer

QuickBooks depends on this feature to create PDFs.

1. Press Windows + R, type optionalfeatures, and hit Enter.
2. In Windows Features, look for Microsoft XPS Document Writer.
3. If unchecked, enable it and click OK.
4. If already enabled, uncheck it, restart your PC, then re-enable it.

Fix 4: Check and Reset Printer Settings

Incorrect printer settings may block QuickBooks PDF features.

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
2. Ensure Microsoft XPS Document Writer is listed.
3. Right-click and choose Set as Default Printer.
4. Print a test document to confirm functionality.

Fix 5: Repair MSXML Component

MSXML is a Microsoft service required for QuickBooks.

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Locate MSXML 6.0 in the list.
3. Right-click and select Repair.
4. Restart your system and recheck QuickBooks.

Fix 6: Repair QuickBooks Installation

If QuickBooks installation files are damaged, repairing the program can help.

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Select QuickBooks Desktop from the list.
3. Click Uninstall/Change > Repair.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts and restart QuickBooks.

Fix 7: Adjust User Permissions

Sometimes, user account restrictions may prevent QuickBooks from accessing necessary components.

1. Navigate to C:WindowsSystem32spooldriversx643.
2. Right-click the XPS Document Writer file.
3. Select Properties > Security.
4. Ensure your Windows user has Full Control permissions.

Preventing Future Errors

To avoid facing this error again, follow these preventive tips:

1. Keep QuickBooks Desktop updated regularly.
2. Install Windows updates to maintain compatibility.
3. Avoid force-closing QuickBooks, as it can corrupt files.
4. Make sure XPS Document Writer is always enabled.
5. Perform regular QuickBooks backups.

Conclusion

The error “QuickBooks can’t complete the current action due to a missing component” can be frustrating, especially when you need to email or save important documents. However, most cases can be fixed by updating QuickBooks, repairing the Microsoft XPS Document Writer, using the QuickBooks PDF Repair Tool, or adjusting system settings.

By following the easy fixes shared in this guide, you can resolve the error quickly and get back to managing your business smoothly. Regular updates, proper system maintenance, and backups can also help you prevent this error in the future.