Uninstalling Sage 50 Payroll removes the software components. It doesn't remove the data, program directory structure, or any shared system files.

If you want to remove all trace of Sage 50 Payroll, follow all sections below.

Alternatively, for a basic uninstall and to leave the data and installation directory structure, ignore the optional section at the end of the article.

Before you uninstall

Take a backup of your company data. This is important in case you need to refer back to this data at any point in the future.

If you have more than one set of company data, take a backup of each one and name the backups clearly.

Note the software and data directories

You use these paths as part of the process later.

1. Go to Help, then About.
2. Under the Program Details heading, note the path to the:
   • Program directory, and the
   • Data directory
3. Close Sage 50 Payroll.

Uninstall the program

Uninstall the program from your computer first. For help with doing this, select your operating system:

Delete the Payroll.ini file

Next, delete the Payroll.ini files. If you don't delete these and attempt to re-install in the future, an error message appears.

Use the command prompt to delete these files:

1. Press the Windows key and R.
2. Type cmd then select OK.
3. Type cd\ then press Enter on your keyboard.
   • If the prompt C:\\ doesn't appear, and it shows a different drive, for example M:\, type cd c:\ then press Enter
4. Type del payroll.ini /s then press Enter.
   • The locations of the payroll.ini file and confirmation of their deletion appear.
5. Wait until the cursor appears and begins to flash. This indicates the process is complete.
6. Type exit then press Enter.

Optional - Delete the software and data directories

If you need to remove all traces of Sage 50 Payroll, complete the following steps.

1. Open Windows Explorer then press the Alt key to show the toolbar.
2. Select Tools, then select Folder Options.
3. Select View then select the Show hidden files and folders option.
4. Clear the Hide extensions for known file types checkbox then select OK.
5. Browse to and delete the program and data directories you noted earlier.