Tax season can be daunting, but with TurboTax, you can confidently navigate your way to a complete and accurate return. If you've opted for the CD version, you're in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of installing TurboTax from a CD, ensuring a smooth setup and getting you ready to tackle your taxes.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing TurboTax from CD
Ready to get started? Let's dive in!
Step 1: Prepare Your System and Gather Your Essentials
Before you even touch that CD, let's make sure your computer is ready and you have everything you need. This crucial preparation can save you a lot of hassle later!
Check System Requirements:
For Windows: You'll typically need Windows 10 or later (64-bit). Ensure you have at least 4 GB of RAM (more is recommended) and 1 GB of hard disk space (plus up to 4.5 GB for Microsoft .NET 4.8 if not already installed). A monitor with 1024x768 resolution or higher is recommended.
For Mac: You'll generally need macOS Ventura 13 or later (macOS Monterey 12 and earlier versions might not be supported for newer TurboTax versions). Like Windows, 4 GB of RAM or more is recommended, along with 1 GB of hard disk space. A monitor with 1024x768 resolution or higher is also suggested.
Always check the specific system requirements listed on your TurboTax CD box or the Intuit website for the exact tax year you purchased.
Locate Your CD-ROM Drive: Make sure your computer has a functional CD/DVD drive. If you have a newer laptop without one, you might need an external USB CD/DVD drive.
Find Your Product License Code: This is a 14-character combination of letters and numbers (e.g., XXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX) usually found on a sticker inside the CD box, on the CD sleeve, or on a packing slip. Keep this handy – you'll need it for activation!
Ensure Internet Connection: While you're installing from a CD, an internet connection is required for product activation, software updates, and optional online features. Make sure your internet is stable.
Close Other Programs: To prevent conflicts during installation, it's a good idea to close all other open applications on your computer.
Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall (Optional but Recommended): Sometimes, security software can mistakenly interfere with software installations. While installing, you might temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall. Just remember to re-enable them immediately after the installation is complete.
Step 2: Initiate the Installation Process
Now that you're prepared, it's time to get the TurboTax software onto your computer!
Insert the TurboTax CD: Gently insert the TurboTax CD into your computer's CD/DVD drive.
AutoPlay Prompt (Windows):
In most cases, an AutoPlay dialog box will pop up automatically, asking what you want to do with the disc. Look for an option like "Run Setup.exe" or "Install TurboTax." Click on it to start the installation wizard.
If the AutoPlay doesn't pop up:
Open File Explorer (Windows Key + E).
Navigate to "This PC" or "My Computer."
Double-click on your CD/DVD drive icon (it might be labeled with the TurboTax name).
Look for a file named
setup.exeorinstall.exeand double-click it to launch the installer.
Mount the Disk Image (Mac):
On a Mac, after inserting the CD, a TurboTax disk icon should appear on your desktop.
Double-click this icon to open the disk image.
You'll typically see the TurboTax application icon and often an "Applications" folder alias.
Drag the TurboTax application icon to the "Applications" folder. This copies the software to your hard drive.
Step 3: Follow the On-Screen Installation Wizard
The installation wizard will guide you through the process. Pay attention to each step!
Welcome Screen: You'll usually see a welcome screen. Click "Next" or "Continue" to proceed.
License Agreement: This is an important step. Read the End-User License Agreement (EULA) carefully. To continue with the installation, you must accept the terms and conditions. Check the box that says "I accept the terms in the license agreement" and click "Next" or "Continue."
Choose Installation Location (Optional): The installer will suggest a default location to install TurboTax (e.g.,
C:\Program Files (x86)\TurboTax\[Year]on Windows or your Applications folder on Mac). For most users, the default location is fine. If you need to change it, click "Browse" or "Change" and select your desired path.Select Components (Less Common for CD Versions): Some software allows you to choose which components to install. TurboTax CD versions usually install all necessary components by default, so you might not see this option. If you do, just click "Next."
Ready to Install: Once you've made your selections, you'll see a summary screen. Click "Install" to begin copying the files.
Installation Progress: A progress bar will show you the installation's status. This can take a few minutes, depending on your computer's speed.
User Account Control (UAC) Prompt (Windows): If you see a User Account Control prompt asking for permission to make changes to your device, click "Yes" to allow the installation to continue.
Step 4: Activate Your TurboTax Software
After the core installation, you'll need to activate your product. This typically requires an internet connection.
Launch TurboTax: Once the installation is complete, the wizard might offer an option to "Launch TurboTax now" or "Finish." If not, find the TurboTax icon on your desktop or in your Start Menu (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac) and double-click it.
Sign In or Create Intuit Account: TurboTax will prompt you to sign in to your existing Intuit account or create a new one. An Intuit account is necessary for product activation, updates, and accessing certain features.
If you have an account, enter your username and password.
If you're new, follow the on-screen instructions to create an account. This usually involves providing an email address, creating a password, and sometimes verifying your email.
Enter Your License Code: After signing in, you'll be prompted to enter your 14-character license code. Carefully type in the code exactly as it appears on your CD box insert or packaging. Double-check for typos!
Activate: Click "Activate" or "Continue." The software will connect to Intuit's servers to verify your license.
Activation Confirmation: Once successfully activated, you'll receive a confirmation message.
Step 5: Install Updates and Get Started!
Keeping your TurboTax software updated is crucial for accurate tax preparation.
Check for Updates: Immediately after activation, TurboTax will likely automatically check for and download any available updates. These updates ensure your software has the latest tax laws, forms, and features.
Allow the updates to download and install completely. You might need to restart TurboTax after the updates are applied.
You're Ready to Go! Once updates are installed, you'll be taken to the TurboTax home screen. You can now start a new tax return, import previous year's data, or explore the software's features.
Congratulations! You've successfully installed TurboTax from your CD and are now ready to tackle your taxes with confidence.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some common questions you might have about installing TurboTax from a CD:
How to troubleshoot if the TurboTax CD won't auto-run on Windows?
If the CD doesn't auto-run, open File Explorer (Windows Key + E), navigate to "This PC," locate your CD/DVD drive, right-click on it, and select "Open" or "Explore." Then, manually double-click on the setup.exe or install.exe file to start the installation.
How to find my TurboTax license code if it's missing from the CD box?
The license code is usually on a sticker inside the CD box or on the CD sleeve. If it's genuinely missing, you may need to contact Intuit customer support with proof of purchase to retrieve your code.
How to install TurboTax on a computer without a CD/DVD drive?
If your computer lacks a CD/DVD drive, you'll need an external USB CD/DVD drive. Alternatively, with your license code in hand, you might be able to download the software directly from the TurboTax website (installturbotax.com) after signing into your Intuit account.
How to resolve "Administrator Rights Required" errors during installation?
Ensure you are logged into a user account with administrative privileges on your computer. If you are, try right-clicking the setup.exe (Windows) or the TurboTax application (Mac) and selecting "Run as administrator" (Windows) or "Open" while holding the Control key (Mac) and then choosing "Open" if a security warning appears.
How to fix an error saying "The installation failed" or "Corrupted files"?
This could be due to a scratched CD, insufficient disk space, or conflicts with other software. First, try cleaning the CD. Ensure you have enough free hard drive space. If the issue persists, try temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall, and if possible, try installing on another computer to rule out a disc issue. If it's a corrupted download, try downloading the software again from installturbotax.com if you have that option.
How to transfer my TurboTax installation to a new computer?
TurboTax CD versions typically allow installation on up to five computers that you own. Simply follow the installation steps on your new computer using the same CD and license code. You may need to deactivate it from an old computer if you hit the license limit.
How to update TurboTax after installation?
Once TurboTax is installed and activated, it usually checks for updates automatically when you open it. You can also manually check for updates within the software by going to the "Online" menu (or similar) and selecting "Check for Updates."
How to uninstall TurboTax from my computer?
Windows: Go to
Settings>Apps>Apps & features, find TurboTax in the list, click on it, and selectUninstall. Follow the on-screen prompts.Mac: Drag the TurboTax application from your Applications folder to the Trash. Then, empty the Trash.
How to get technical support for TurboTax installation issues?
If you encounter persistent issues, visit the official TurboTax support website (ttlc.intuit.com) or contact their customer service. They have extensive help articles, community forums, and often provide phone or chat support.
How to find my previously filed tax returns after reinstalling TurboTax?
Your tax return data files are typically saved separately from the TurboTax software itself. Search your computer's documents folder or default save locations for files ending with .tax[year] (e.g., .tax2023). Once you find them, you can open them directly within the newly installed TurboTax software.
