Understanding QuickBooks Online Error 187: Causes, Solutions, and Prevention

QuickBooks Online is a powerful tool for managing business finances, but users may occasionally encounter errors that disrupt their workflow. One such error is QuickBooks Online Error 187. This error typically occurs due to issues with multi-factor authentication (MFA) required by your bank. In this blog, we will explore the causes, solutions, and preventive measures for QuickBooks Online Error 187 to help you maintain a seamless accounting process.

What is QuickBooks Online Error 187?

QuickBooks Online Error 187 occurs when QuickBooks is unable to complete the multi-factor authentication (MFA) process required by your bank. MFA is an additional layer of security that many banks use to verify your identity. When this error appears, it means QuickBooks cannot proceed with downloading transactions or connecting to your bank account because the authentication process has failed.

Common Causes of Error 187

Understanding the root causes of Error 187 is crucial for troubleshooting and resolving the issue. Here are some common reasons why this error might occur:

Incorrect MFA Credentials: Entering incorrect MFA credentials, such as a one-time password (OTP) or security question answer, can cause this error.
Expired or Incorrect OTP: Using an expired or incorrect OTP can prevent QuickBooks from completing the authentication process.
Changes in Bank's MFA Requirements: Updates or changes to your bank’s MFA requirements can affect QuickBooks’ ability to connect and authenticate.
Connectivity Issues: Poor or unstable internet connectivity can disrupt the MFA process, causing Error 187.

Troubleshooting and Resolving Error 187

If you encounter Error 187, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve the issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Verify MFA Credentials

Ensure that you are entering the correct MFA credentials required by your bank:

Check OTP: If your bank requires an OTP, ensure it is correct and not expired. OTPs usually have a short validity period.
Answer Security Questions: If your bank uses security questions, ensure that you are providing the correct answers.

Step 2: Update QuickBooks Online

Ensure that you are using the latest version of QuickBooks Online:

Log In to QuickBooks Online: Use your QuickBooks Online credentials to log in to your account.
Go to the Banking Menu: Navigate to the Banking or Transactions menu.
Update Bank Information: Click on the Update button to refresh your bank connections and see if the error persists.

Step 3: Verify Internet Connection

Make sure your internet connection is stable and working properly:

Test Internet Speed: Use an online speed test tool to check your internet connection speed and stability.
Restart Router/Modem: Restart your router or modem to refresh the internet connection.
Connect to a Different Network: If possible, try connecting to a different network to see if the issue is related to your current network.

Step 4: Disable and Re-Enable MFA

If your bank allows it, try temporarily disabling and then re-enabling MFA:

Log In to Your Bank Account: Visit your bank's website and log in to your account.
Navigate to Security Settings: Find the section where you manage MFA settings.
Disable MFA: Temporarily disable MFA, then re-enable it after a few minutes.
Update QuickBooks Online: Return to QuickBooks Online and try updating your bank connection again.

Step 5: Wait and Retry

If the error persists, wait for a while and then try again:

Wait for a Few Hours: Sometimes, the issue may be temporary and could resolve itself after some time.
Retry the Connection: After waiting for a few hours, try updating your bank information in QuickBooks Online again.

Step 6: Contact Your Bank

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact your bank’s customer support for assistance:

Explain the Issue: Inform the bank’s support team that you are experiencing Error 187 when trying to connect QuickBooks Online to your bank account.
Follow Their Instructions: The bank’s support team may provide specific instructions or information about any ongoing issues that could be causing the error.

Preventing Error 187

While it’s not always possible to prevent every error, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances of encountering Error 187 in the future:

Monitor Bank Announcements: Stay informed about any changes or updates to your bank’s MFA requirements. Regularly check for announcements or notifications on your bank's website.
Enable Notifications: Enable notifications in QuickBooks Online to receive alerts about any issues with your bank connections. This can help you address problems promptly.
Use a Reliable Internet Connection: Ensure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection to minimize connectivity issues.
Regularly Check Bank Connections: Periodically check your bank connections in QuickBooks Online to ensure they are functioning properly. This can help you identify and address issues before they become critical.
Update Login Information Promptly: If you change your bank login credentials or MFA settings, update them in QuickBooks Online as soon as possible to avoid connection issues.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Online Error 187 can be a frustrating hurdle when managing your business finances, but with the right approach, it can be resolved. By understanding the common causes of this error and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog, you can quickly address the issue and get back to managing your accounts with confidence. Additionally, taking preventative measures can help minimize the chances of encountering Error 187 in the future, ensuring a smoother and more efficient accounting process.

If you continue to experience issues or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to QuickBooks Online support or your bank's customer support team. They can provide additional guidance and support to help you resolve the error and keep your financial operations running smoothly.