QuickBooks Desktop users often rely on their company file for daily bookkeeping and accounting tasks. When that file suddenly refuses to open, it can disrupt business operations. One such issue is QuickBooks Error -6000, -83, a common company file-related error that usually appears when QuickBooks cannot access or read the company file properly.

In this guide, we'll explain what QuickBooks Error -6000, -83 means, why it occurs, and how you can fix it step by step to open your company file again.

What Is QuickBooks Error -6000, -83?

QuickBooks Error -6000, -83 belongs to the -6000 series of errors, which are generally associated with QuickBooks company file errors. You may encounter this error when trying to open, restore, or access a company file stored locally or on a network.

This error is similar in nature to issues like QuickBooks error -6000 -77, where QuickBooks is blocked from accessing the company file due to permission, configuration, or file damage issues.

Common Error Messages

You may see messages such as:

• "An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file."
• "QuickBooks is unable to open this company file."
• "Error -6000, -83: The file exists but cannot be opened."

Causes of QuickBooks Error -6000, -83

Understanding the cause helps in choosing the right solution. Some common reasons include:

• Incorrect folder permissions for the company file
• Damaged or corrupted company file (.QBW)
• Hosting configuration issues in multi-user mode
• Damaged Network Data (.ND) or Transaction Log (.TLG) files
• File stored on an external drive or network location with restricted access
• QuickBooks installation issues

How to Fix QuickBooks Error -6000, -83

Follow these solutions in order. After each step, try opening your company file again.

Solution 1: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is designed to fix company file and network-related issues.

Steps:

1. Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit's official website.
2. Open Tool Hub and select Company File Issues.
3. Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
4. Browse and select your company file.
5. Choose Check your file and let the tool complete the scan.

This tool can resolve many QuickBooks company file error issues automatically.

Solution 2: Check Folder Permissions

Incorrect permissions can prevent QuickBooks from accessing the company file.

Steps:

1. Navigate to the folder where your company file is stored.
2. Right-click the folder → Properties → Security.
3. Ensure all users have Full Control permissions.
4. Apply changes and restart QuickBooks.

Solution 3: Rename .ND and .TLG Files

Damaged configuration files can trigger -6000 series errors.

Steps:

1. Open the company file folder.
2. Locate files with the same name as your company file but ending in:
   • .ND
   • .TLG
3. Right-click each file and rename them (for example, add .old at the end).
4. Reopen QuickBooks and try opening the company file.

Solution 4: Open the File Locally

If the file is stored on a network or external drive, copy it to your local system.

Steps:

1. Copy the .QBW file to your desktop.
2. Open QuickBooks.
3. Click File → Open or Restore Company.
4. Browse to the local file and open it.

This step often helps when QuickBooks error -6000 -77 or -83 is related to network access restrictions.

Solution 5: Verify Hosting Settings (Multi-User Environment)

Improper hosting settings can also cause this error.

Steps:

1. Open QuickBooks on the server system.
2. Go to File → Utilities.
3. Ensure Host Multi-User Access is enabled only on the server.
4. On workstations, make sure hosting is disabled.

Preventing QuickBooks Error -6000, -83 in the Future

To reduce the chances of facing this error again:

• Keep QuickBooks Desktop updated
• Store company files in secure, permission-enabled folders
• Avoid opening company files over unstable networks
• Regularly back up your company file
• Use QuickBooks File Doctor for early detection of file issues

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above solutions work, the company file may be severely damaged or affected by advanced configuration issues. In such cases, professional QuickBooks assistance can help diagnose and fix the issue safely without risking data loss.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error -6000, -83 is a common but fixable issue related to company file access. By following the steps above, most users can restore access to their files and resume work smoothly. Acting early and maintaining proper file management practices can help prevent similar errors, including other -6000 series errors like QuickBooks error -6000 -77.

If you continue to experience a QuickBooks company file error, consider consulting a QuickBooks professional to ensure your data remains secure and intact.