How can I stop Quickbooks auto filling a payment reference when paying bills?

Let's turn off the auto filing feature in the Automation section, david.pollard.

Once you've selected the Pre-fill forms with previously entered content option, the program will auto copy the details of your previous Bill. If you don't want this option, we can turn it off. Let me guide you with these details.

1. Click the Gear icon, and then select Account and Settings.
2. Go to the Advanced tab.
3. Click the edit (pencil) icon on the Automation field.
4. Deselect Pre-fill forms with previously entered content.
5. Click Save.
6. Click Done.

    

   

I have an article here on how to enter and navigate the pay bills screen: How to enter and pay bills.

Please let me know if you still need my help in entering a bill.