---
title: "1040 - Desktop DataBase Access Error - Incorrect AES Key"
canonical: "https://support.crosslinktax.com/space/CSC/1869285130/1040%20-%20Desktop%20DataBase%20Access%20Error%20-%20Incorrect%20AES%20Key"
format: markdown
---
**Issue Symptoms**

When I enter a new return that existed in the prior year, I see the following message: **dir2015 Accessing: dir2015 - 8:0000000 incorrect aes key**

![image](media://ee8899de-f2b8-44ee-a4c1-6de5e9ccfdec)

 

**Issue Cause**

This error is caused by the current year program being unable to access the tax data for the prior year program. This can occur when the prior year's login or password is incorrect.

 

**Issue Resolution**

**Use the Prior Year Encryption Key Utility:**

1. Verify the login used in the** prior year's program** by **logging in**.

2. Once you have successfully confirmed the Login and Password for the prior year program, exit the **prior year program**.

3. Open the **current year program **or the year that you are importing to.

4. Click **Utility** > **System Utilities**.

5. Click on **Prior Year Login Info**.

6. Click **Run Utility**.

7. In the **Prior Year AES Key** window enter the correct path, Login, and Password for the prior year program.

8. Click **OK**.

 

The software should now be correctly configured to access the prior year's database without error.