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Level 2
posted Apr 29, 2025 11:31:33 AM

Installing a prior year tax software

I have a new computer on which I installed the 2024 Turbotax software.  I have prepared my returns for 2024.  However, I would like to install the 2023 software (I have a license code) so I can see the data I entered on my 2023 return. I want to make sure I do not overwrite anything for the 2024 year in the process.  I do have the data files on my new computer (a MAC).

0 9 4596
9 Replies
Level 15
Apr 29, 2025 11:38:47 AM

That is fine.   Nothing from your 2024 software will "overwrite" your 2023 software or your 2023 return.  They are completely separate programs.

Expert Alumni
Apr 29, 2025 11:40:30 AM

You can install the 2023 software without overwriting the 2024 software.  You will install it in the same manner you did the 2024 software.

Level 2
Apr 29, 2025 11:47:31 AM

If I go to InstallTurbotax.com it defaults to downloading 2024 software.  Do I need to add 2023 to the link?

 

Expert Alumni
Apr 29, 2025 11:48:25 AM

See this help article:

TurboTax Software Prior Tax Years

Level 2
Apr 29, 2025 11:54:40 AM

I tried that and got this message:  

Something's not quite right

Something's not working. Give us a few minutes and try again. If it still doesn't work, please contact us.
 
Is that because I initially purchased it from Costco rather than through Intuit?
 
And I really appreciate your help.

Expert Alumni
Apr 29, 2025 11:56:52 AM

It depends on what kind of code you have.

 

If you have a License Code, this is for Desktop software; and if you have an Activation Code, this is for Online software.

 

These are different software's and codes from one cannot be used in the other one. 

 

For TurboTax Online, you can activate your code to your account on this link

 

For TurboTax Desktop, you can download/install your software from this link

Level 15
Apr 29, 2025 11:57:51 AM

If you log into your account it should be listed so you can download it again under Products and Billing.    Then after you get the program installed or reinstalled the first thing to do before you open your tax return is to update the program and install any state programs you had. Then open your file. So you first might need to start a fake return to be able to download the state program (go to File-New Tax Return).

 

Then go to FILE -Open and find your return.

 

 

Level 2
Apr 29, 2025 12:14:26 PM

Thank you for this info. I did try this but this is what I see under Product; and then once I click on the arrow to the right, I then get the same error message as before. 

 

Your products
Manage your product details like payment info and subscription settings.

TurboTaxTY2024 TurboTax Desktop State Individual MAC, TY2024 TurboTax Desktop Deluxe DIY Retail CMV, TY2023 TurboTax Desktop Efile Individual DIY State, TY2023 TurboTax Desktop Deluxe DIY Retail CMV, TY2022 TurboTax Desktop Efile Individual DIY State, TY2020 TurboTax Desktop Efile Individual DIY State, TurboTax Desktop Additional State Unlock 2014

Level 15
Apr 29, 2025 12:39:08 PM

So you went to the 2023 box and Licenses and downloads?  Maybe try clearing your cache and cookies and log in again.   Try using a different browser.