Hello there, @masteringhouse.

 It sounds like you're experiencing an issue viewing filed W2s in QuickBooks Desktop. It could be due to a software glitch or a specific setting. 

Here are a few troubleshooting you can try:

• Restart QuickBooks Desktop and try accessing the 1099s section again.
• Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the 1099 Forms section.
• Check for any available updates for QuickBooks Desktop and install the latest release.

Here's how:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Press F2 (or Ctrl+1) to open the Product Information window.
3. Check your current version and release.

See if you have the latest release available for your QuickBooks Desktop version:

• QuickBooks 2024 R4_18
• QuickBooks 2023 R9_116
• QuickBooks 2022 R13_53
• QuickBooks 2021 R16_14

QuickBooks automatically downloads updates when they become available. Once the update is downloaded, you'll see "Update available" on the status bar in the top right corner. The next step is to install the update. If you close the product and keep the system/PC switched on, the update will install automatically. 

If you prefer to manually install the update, here's how:

1. Select Update available, then select Install now to install the update.
2. Sit back and relax while the update is getting installed. It might take a while for the update to be installed.
3. Open QuickBooks once the update is installed.

I'm adding this article to help you print/e-file 1099 in QuickBooks Desktop: Print your 1099 and 1096 forms.

Lastly, here are articles for the year-end checklist: 

• Year-end checklist for QuickBooks Desktop Payroll.
• Year-end guide for QuickBooks Desktop.

Feel free to comment below if you have questions about viewing 1099 in QuickBooks Desktop. I'm always here to help. Have a great day.