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New Member
posted Jun 3, 2019 10:11:40 AM

How do I password protect the pdf file of my return?

Adobe opens it right up.  Is there a way to password protect it using Turbo Tax? (If not, it would be nice of Turbo Tax to warn of this before saving it onto my hard drive. I'd rather save a non-password protected file on removable media alone that can be locked up in a safe).

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10 Replies
Intuit Alumni
Jun 3, 2019 10:11:42 AM

It sounds like you are using your PDF reader to password protect the PDF file.

Most PDF processing programs require a paid version to password protect PDF files.

You may want to consider using a version that will enable this functionality.

New Member
Jun 26, 2019 10:47:35 PM

It is very simple if you want to lock PDF file you need to go for Secure PDF Software. And the best software to lock PDF file is Softaken Secure PDF Tool this is the ultimate software to secure your PDF files. Also, its price is quite affordable. This software is absolutely safe and secure to use. 

New Member
Mar 29, 2021 1:58:43 PM

I am trying to find out how do I password protect the turbo Tax software program from being open without a password. I don't want to be able to log onto my computer and click on the Turbo Tax logo and open the program up. 

Intuit Alumni
Mar 30, 2021 9:07:55 AM

Please see below for information on how to password-protect your tax file in the TurboTax software. 

https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-data-file/help/how-do-i-password-protect-my-tax-file-in-the-turbotax-cd-download-software/00/25903

 

Returning Member
May 6, 2021 4:05:17 PM

It baffles me that Intuit provides password protection for my tax data files, but then directs me to print to PDF to review my returns before e-filing - AND THERE IS NO PASSWORD PROTECTION FEATURE FOR THE PDF FILES!  Intuit, please explain the reasoning for this lack of security.

Expert Alumni
May 7, 2021 10:44:51 AM

The issue is that there are multiple ways to open a PDF whereas the .tax data file is sourced from one company, TurboTax. It is up to you which service you use and what protocol that service allows to password protect PDF files.

 

@duffer7673

New Member
Feb 17, 2023 1:17:34 PM

Yes Turbo Tax.  Why would your not allow your customers to password protect PDF files, or allow a WORD version so your customers have more control over their files?  I cannot email PDF K-1s without encryption?

 

Please make your product more suitable for it's intended purposes!

New Member
Feb 17, 2023 1:20:01 PM

Yes BUT...why would TurboTax then give me options as to how I view, print and send the files.  Chaining customers to Adobe is not the answer and the product needs to be improved and made more suitable for it's intended purpose.  What a frustration!

Expert Alumni
Feb 17, 2023 1:39:11 PM

This link contains steps on How to Protect a PDF File. 

 

@freje

 

New Member
Feb 21, 2023 12:50:47 PM

On a Mac, open the file with Preview (right click, open with...).  Then click File, Export, pick name, path (replace the one generated by TT is my suggestion), and click Permissions.  You can now input a password to protect opening, printing, etc.   Free!