I can't remembrer if aI have the downloaded or online version of 2016 but either way, I cannot unlock my return. when I hit save it says I don't have permissions

[mrfchirpy]

I retreived a copy of my return from  my backup and when I go to save entries it says it is locked.  It also says I don't have permissions to unlock the copy.

[JustinC · Accepted solution]

You have the downloaded version. The files you are trying to access are set to read only. You need to log onto your computer as an administrator, and right click on the files you backed up. Take the read only option off of the files.

Another possibility is that the files are digitally signed with the computer you backed them up on.

If you did use a different computer, or reinstalled the operating system since you backed them up, it will be impossable to remove the signature without that computer, or instillation. The signature usually prompts for a password, but that varies with operating systems.

If all else fails, when you are ready to save create a new save file, choose the option save as then if it says the file already exists, replace it if possible, you may have to ad a number to the new file if it won't delete the original file.