QuickBooks is one of the most trusted accounting tools for small and medium-sized businesses, but like any software, it can sometimes run into technical issues. One common issue users face is the QuickBooks Missing PDF Component Error. This error prevents you from saving invoices, statements, or reports as PDF files or from emailing them directly through QuickBooks.

In this guide, we'll explain what this error means, why it happens, and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it effectively.

What is the QuickBooks Missing PDF Component Error?

The "Missing PDF Component Error" usually appears when QuickBooks tries to create or email a PDF file but fails due to missing or damaged system components. The full error message often looks like this:

"QuickBooks can't complete the current action due to a missing component: Missing PDF Component."

This means QuickBooks cannot detect the required PDF creation tools, such as Microsoft XPS Document Writer (MXDW) or MSXML components, which are essential for converting files to PDF format.

Common Causes of QuickBooks Missing PDF Component Error

Understanding the causes can help you fix the error more effectively. Some of the most common reasons include:

  1. Damaged or missing Microsoft XPS Document Writer: QuickBooks relies on this to create PDF files.
  2. Corrupt QuickBooks installation files: Broken program files can prevent PDF functionality.
  3. Outdated Windows or QuickBooks version: Missing updates may block compatibility.
  4. Disabled XPS Services in Windows: Required services may be turned off accidentally.
  5. Printer/driver issues: Printer settings or drivers may conflict with PDF creation.
  6. Corrupted MSXML component: This Microsoft component is crucial for document generation.
Signs You're Facing the PDF Component Error
  • QuickBooks crashes when trying to email invoices.
  • Reports do not save as PDF.
  • Error message: "QuickBooks can't complete the current action due to a missing component."
  • Printer not activated errors may also appear alongside PDF issues.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Missing PDF Component Error

Here's how you can troubleshoot and fix the error:

Step 1: Run the QuickBooks Print & PDF Repair Tool

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

  1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub (latest version).
  2. Open the Tool Hub and go to Program Problems.
  3. Select QuickBooks PDF & Print Repair Tool.
  4. Wait until the tool completes the repair process.
  5. Reopen QuickBooks and try to save or email a PDF again.
Step 2: Update QuickBooks to the Latest Release

Sometimes, outdated versions of QuickBooks trigger this error.

  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  3. Select Update Now and click Get Updates.
  4. Restart QuickBooks after the update and try the PDF function again.
Step 3: Reinstall or Enable Microsoft XPS Document Writer

The Microsoft XPS Document Writer (MXDW) is essential for QuickBooks PDF tasks.

To Reinstall/Enable it:

  1. Press Windows + R, type optionalfeatures, and hit Enter.
  2. Look for Microsoft XPS Document Writer under Windows Features.
  3. If unchecked, enable it by ticking the box and clicking OK.
  4. If already enabled, uncheck it, restart your computer, and re-enable it.
Step 4: Check Printer & Driver Settings

QuickBooks uses your printer drivers for PDF functions.

  1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
  2. Ensure Microsoft XPS Document Writer appears in the list.
  3. Right-click on it and choose Set as Default Printer.
  4. If it's missing, reinstall it from Windows Features.
Step 5: Repair MSXML Component

QuickBooks requires MSXML to work properly.

  1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Locate MSXML 6.0 in the list.
  3. Right-click and choose Repair.
  4. Restart your system and recheck QuickBooks PDF functionality.
Step 6: Adjust User Permissions for XPS Services

Sometimes, permissions block QuickBooks from using PDF services.

  1. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\spool\drivers\x64\3.
  2. Right-click on the XPS Document Writer file.
  3. Go to Properties > Security.
  4. Ensure your Windows user account has Full Control.
Step 7: Repair QuickBooks Installation

If the error persists, repairing QuickBooks might help.

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

To reduce the chances of this error happening again:

  • Always keep QuickBooks updated.
  • Regularly install Windows updates.
  • Avoid corrupting QuickBooks files by shutting down properly.
  • Keep Microsoft XPS Document Writer enabled.
  • Create regular backups of your QuickBooks company files.
Conclusion

The QuickBooks Missing PDF Component Error can disrupt your workflow when generating invoices, statements, or reports. Thankfully, most cases can be fixed by updating QuickBooks, repairing the Microsoft XPS Document Writer, running the QuickBooks PDF Repair Tool, or checking system components.

By following the step-by-step solutions above, you can easily create and email PDFs without hassle. With regular updates and backups, you can prevent this issue from recurring in the future.