I need to open a prior year return but am unable to open turbotax. The software asks for "activation 16-digit code" that came with the software, but I don't have it.

[gnome99]

I saved the ".tax" files, but can't open because I don't have the software code.  Is there a download that will let me view prior year(s) returns?

[Critter-3]

First a word of advice ... going forward ALWAYS save a PDF of the filed return so you have access to the return even if you no longer have the program installed.  

To find your license code:

 https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-topics/help/i-can-t-find-my-license-code/01/852973

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-topics/help/my-code-doesn-t-work/01/871966

[gnome99]

Thanks for the tip... I'd already concluded the necessity after my experience today.

I don't have any of the boxes the CDs came, so I can't activate TT.  Is there some other way or link I can access to open?  (I'd previously thought that simply saving the ".tax file" would be enough to let me view prior returns... guess not.

[Critter-3]

When  you registered the program you should have access to the liscense code ... check the links I gave you.

Contact TurboTax support and speak directly with a TurboTax support agent concerning this situation.

See this TurboTax support FAQ for a contact link and hours of operation -https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1899263-what-is-the-turbotax-phone-number