Entries Problem 213 in QuickBooks Desktop usually appears when you run a Verify Data utility and QuickBooks detects duplicate names in your lists—such as customers, vendors, employees, or accounts. This type of duplication causes conflicts within your company file and must be corrected to ensure the software runs smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll explain what Error 213 means, why it happens, and how to fix it step by step.

What Is Error 213 in QuickBooks Desktop?

When QuickBooks encounters two or more identical names in a list where names must be unique, it triggers Error 213. This error prevents proper file validation and can impact reporting, transactions, or list management.

Common Error Message:

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

Common Lists That Cause This Error

• Customer & Jobs List

• Vendor List

• Employee List

• Chart of Accounts

• Other Names List

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 213

Step 1: Run the Verify Data Utility

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Go to File > Utilities > Verify Data.

3. Let QuickBooks scan your file for issues.

4. If Error 213 is found, QuickBooks will prompt you to check the QBWin.log file for details.

Step 2: Locate the Duplicate Entry in the Log File

1. Press F2 to open the Product Information window.

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

3. Open QBWin.log.

4. Search for the phrase:

   javascript

   CopyEdit

   Error 213

   or

   nginx

   CopyEdit

   Duplicate name encountered

5. Note the exact name(s) causing the issue.

Step 3: Resolve the Duplicate

Depending on the situation, you have two options:

Option A – Rename One of the Duplicates

• Go to the appropriate list (Customer Center, Vendor Center, etc.).

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

• Make a small change to the name (e.g., add a number or middle initial).

• Click OK to save.

🔁 Option B – Merge the Duplicate Entries

• Edit one duplicate entry to exactly match the other.

• QuickBooks will prompt you to confirm the merge.

• Click Yes to complete.

Caution: Merging entries combines their transaction history and cannot be undone.

Step 4: Run Rebuild Data

1. Go to File > Utilities > Rebuild Data.

2. Follow the prompts to back up your company file.

3. QuickBooks will automatically fix any minor file issues.

Step 5: Re-Verify the File

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

2. Confirm that no further Error 213 messages appear.

How to Prevent Duplicate Entries in the Future

• Always assign unique names to customers, vendors, and accounts.

• Train users to check for existing entries before creating new ones.

• Periodically run Verify Data to catch issues early.

• Avoid copy-pasting entries from external spreadsheets without validation.

Need More Help?

If the issue persists:

• Download and run the QuickBooks Tool Hub, then use File Doctor to scan and repair the file.

• Contact QuickBooks Desktop Support for professional assistance with complex file errors.

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

Final Thoughts

Error 213 – Duplicate List Entries in QuickBooks Desktop is a common but solvable issue. By identifying and removing duplicate names, you ensure data consistency and smoother operations within your company file. Regular file maintenance helps prevent this error from recurring.