---
title: Xero won’t accept the account code that I am entering during payroll setup. What should I do?
description: "(For: Xero Payroll Setup – Chart of Accounts) If you're setting up Xero Payroll and the system isn’t accepting the account code you’ve entered, it’s usually due to one of the following common issues:"
---

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# Xero won’t accept the account code that I am entering during payroll setup. What should I do?

**(For: Xero Payroll Setup – Chart of Accounts)**

If you're setting up **Xero Payroll** and the system isn’t accepting the account code you’ve entered, it’s usually due to one of the following common issues:

**Option 1: Check the account type**

Make sure the account is assigned the correct account type for payroll. For example:

- Use **Current Liability** for accounts like PAYG or superannuation payable
- Use **Expense** for wages, leave, or payroll costs. Xero will not allow payroll accounts to be of type **Revenue, Asset, or Equity**.

**Option 2: Make sure the code is unique**

Xero does not allow duplicate account codes.

- If the code you’re entering is already assigned to another account, you’ll need to choose a different, unused code number.

**Option 3: Confirm the account is active**

- Go to **Chart of Accounts**, search for the code, and check that the account is **not archived**.
- Archived accounts won’t appear as options when mapping payroll accounts.

Rest assured, once the account meets these conditions, Xero will accept the code and allow you to proceed.

If you're still having trouble, feel free to contact our **Support Team** (tutor@thecareeracademy.com) sharing a screenshot of the error message and account details can help us assist you faster.

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