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Errors with my Papdis file

Common Errors when uploading a PAPDIS file and how to fix them

Uploading a PAPDIS file and seeing a “Fail” status? Don’t worry – it usually means there’s a small formatting issue to fix.

Here are the most common error messages you might see, what they mean, and how to sort them.


1. Error: The Employer ID on the submission is not the correct one for this company

What it means:
The employer ID in column C of your PAPDIS file doesn’t match the one for your account.

How to fix it:

  • Make sure you’re uploading the file to the right account.

  • If the account is correct, check your dashboard for the right employer ID.

  • Update column C with the correct ID, save the file, and upload again.


2. Error: Group is missing

What it means:
Column D in your file is blank – and this column can’t be empty.

How to fix it:

  • Add a group name in column D for each record.

  • If you don’t use groups, just enter default (in lowercase) for each row.


3. Error: National Insurance number format is wrong

What it means:
There’s an invalid NI number in column R.

How to fix it:

  • Double-check and correct the NI number.

  • If you don’t have a valid one (or if it’s temporary), delete the number from the file and try again.


4. Error: We do not recognise the name of the header(s)

What it means:
There’s a column header in your file that doesn’t match the required format.

How to fix it:

  • The error message will tell you which header isn’t right.

  • Update the header to match the correct naming.

  • Save and upload again.


5. Error: A header is missing

What it means:
One of the required headers isn’t included in your file.

How to fix it:

  • Check the error message to see which header is missing.

  • Add that header and any relevant data to your file.

  • Save and re-upload.


6. Error: The allowed file types are text/plain and text/CSV

What it means:
Your file is saved in the wrong format.

How to fix it:

  • Resave the file as a CSV (Comma Delimited) file – with the .csv extension.

  • Then try uploading again.


One last thing

If you’ve had to make any of these fixes, remember to also update your payroll software. That way, the next time you generate a PAPDIS file, the same issue won’t pop up again.


Still stuck?

We’ve got your back. Contact Thrive Support and we’ll help you get everything sorted.