QuickBooks Desktop: Resolve Error 213 – Duplicate List Entries

If you’re using Entries Problem 213 in QuickBooks Desktop and encounter Error 213, it usually means there’s a duplicate entry in one of your lists, such as Customers, Vendors, Employees, or Accounts. This error is commonly detected during the Verify Data process and must be resolved to ensure your company file remains healthy and functional.

This guide will walk you through what causes Error 213 and how to fix it quickly and effectively.

 What Is QuickBooks Error 213?

Error 213 is triggered when QuickBooks finds identical names in lists that require unique identifiers. For example, having two vendors with the exact same name, or two accounts named identically, will cause this issue.

Typical Error Message:

“Error 213: There is a duplicate name in the list. Please edit the name to be unique.”

 Causes of Error 213

• Duplicate names in:

  • Customer & Jobs List

  • Vendor List

  • Employee List

  • Chart of Accounts

• Improper data imports or syncs

• File corruption or list damage

 How to Fix Error 213 in QuickBooks Desktop

Step 1: Run Verify Data Utility

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Go to File > Utilities > Verify Data.

3. Wait while QuickBooks scans your company file.

4. If issues are found, you’ll be prompted to check the QBWin.log file for more details.

Step 2: Locate the Duplicate Entry

1. Press F2 to open the Product Information window.

2. Press F3 and go to the Open File tab.

3. Open the QBWin.log file.

4. Search for:

   javascript

   CopyEdit

   Error 213


   or

   nginx

   CopyEdit

   Duplicate name encountered


5. Identify the name that’s been duplicated.

Step 3: Fix the Duplicate Name

Option 1 – Rename One Entry

• Go to the affected list (e.g., Customer Center, Vendor Center).

• Find the duplicate name, right-click, and choose Edit.

• Modify the name to make it unique (e.g., add a number or initial).

• Click OK to save.

Option 2 – Merge the Duplicates

• Edit one of the duplicates to match the other name exactly.

• QuickBooks will prompt you to merge the entries.

• Click Yes to confirm.

Note: Merging cannot be undone, and it combines all transaction history.

Step 4: Rebuild Your Data File

1. Go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data.

2. Back up your company file when prompted.

3. Let the rebuild process complete.

Step 5: Re-Verify the File

1. Go to File > Utilities > Verify Data again.

2. Confirm that no errors appear.

 Tips to Prevent Error 213 in the Future

• Use unique names for all list entries.

• Avoid importing duplicate data from Excel or third-party tools.

• Regularly use Verify Data to catch issues early.

• Train team members to check for existing names before creating new ones.

 Still Having Trouble?

If Error 213 persists:

• Download and run the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

• Use the QuickBooks File Doctor utility to repair your company file.

• Contact QuickBooks Desktop Support for advanced troubleshooting.

Also Look:- How to Change Pay Periods in QuickBooks Online

 Conclusion

Error 213 in QuickBooks Desktop is caused by duplicate names in your company file’s lists. Fortunately, the fix is straightforward—identify and rename or merge the duplicates, then rebuild your data file. Following these steps will restore your file’s integrity and help prevent future issues.