Thanks for getting back to us and for adding additional details of your concern, Mark.
I'd be glad to impart some insights on how to isolate this issue and ensure you'll be able to import your employees' data.
The .XML (spreadsheet) file is a file format that can be used to export and import data files to a program. To seamlessly import your employees' data, you'll want to ensure you've turned on your QBO Payroll. Let me guide you how.
- Log in to your QBO account via a web browser then go to the Employees or Payroll menu.
- Click Choose your plan (QuickBooks Online Standard Payroll and QuickBooks Online Advanced Payroll).
- Select the QuickBooks Online Standard Payroll option, select Get Started.
- Go back to the Employees or Payroll menu, then select Get set up to run payroll.
- Then click Get set up to run payroll.
You can also see this link for more details: Turn on QuickBooks Online Standard Payroll.
Once done, you can now import your employee's data to QBO. If you've already turned on your payroll, you'll want to ensure you're using the QBO Standard Payroll to import your data from the HMRC Basic Tools.
If you have the Advanced Payroll version, you'll want to convert your .XML file to Excel or CSV to import your data. You can go to the Apps menu in your QBO account and look for an app that has this feature. You can also visit our QuickBooks Apps store for additional reference.
When everything is all set, you'll want to check out this link for guidance in running your payroll efficiently: QuickBooks Online Standard Payroll hub.
You can always beep me up if you need more help importing your data in QBO. I can also help you if you have other questions about payroll. Feel free to leave the details below and I'll answer them for you. Have a good one and always stay safe!