Cannot install TurboTax 2016 on my Mac from CD - getting (Error code -36)

[todd-derego]

I keep getting (Error code -36) trying to install TurboTax Deluxe 2016 on my Mac from CD. I tried cleaning the disk as suggested in the FAQ about this error. I bought the CD from Costco.
Should I return it? Exchange it?
Can I get a download that works?
Thanks!
--Todd

[AnthonyC · Accepted solution]

Yes, if you are still having issues installing from the CD even after following the FAQ, you can receive a download (while Error code 36 is a generic error message, you may have more success with a download than reading from CD) and you will still be able to install TurboTax but there will be a few extra steps -

1. Start by setting up your TurboTax account if you don’t already have one with us here (if you do have one, then log in)
2. Then, contact our Support Representatives, who will verify your purchase and send you a downloadable copy of the software to your account (this is a process that must be done on the phone with our representatives)
3. Once that’s been done, you will be able to sign in to My Downloads and download your TurboTax software directly to your computer

[Duane]

I followed the procedure listed in this answer.  The Support Representatives on the phone were clueless, and they told me only a Windows version was available for download.  Then, they sent me to the Canadian website to request a refund.  I don't live in Canada!  :(

[AnthonyC]

@darice1962   I can assure you that the program does exist in download form as I am using it at the moment.  If you can, could you try to call again?  And, let me know the outcome of the call.

[Duane]

@TurboTaxAnthony, No thank you.  The first phone call was painful enough.  My store receipt said that they do software exchanges, so I took back my defective CD and got a new one.  I'm installed, updated, and running now.

[kapx200]

Duane, thanks for that tip. I'm going to return it and try another one

[mn]

I'm having the same issue... I will try to return the CD to the store and hopefully get a replacement that will work 😕  Taxes are due in 7 days!

[leftylarue]

Disc will not copy, how do I get the download

[hahnjenni]

Yes, this was horrible. I have spent 2 hours trying to fix this. Still, they haven't figured it out. Will not buy Turbo tax again. Very disappointed. I would recommend returning it to the store, it's not worth it.

[mn]

Evidently Error Code -36 indicates a faulty CD that cannot be read. I returned it to the store where it was purchased and they exchanged it. I popped the new CD in the computer and it worked like a charm! I'm in tax prep mode finally! Thanks @Duane and @kapx200 for your informative posts! 🙂

[meton0]

I was getting the Error Code -36, on a Mac Mini with an external multi-drive, running OS10.10.4, following the suggestions on this site, I spoke to the tech support, who suggested (and emailed me) a series of fixes to try before hanging up.  Instead of doing those, I simply copied (by dragging it) the software that came with my disk (TurboTax Basic) onto my desktop and them moved it from there to the applications folder, then ran it and installed the update. No more error -36. No other problems. I would suggest everyone try this first before calling tech support, it could save you some time.

[meton0]

Ever since I wrote this Turbo Tax has informed me of all the people I have helped.  After reading all the comments here, I think it is perhaps better that TurboTax contact every one they have HURT and apologize to them, instead of telling me how I have helped them!  I know why they will not do this, it is because TurboTax Sucks!  They don't care about their customers and we have no real recourse, they are basically no better than thieves as far as I am concerned!

[meton0]

I was getting the Error Code -36, on a Mac Mini with an external multi-drive, running OS10.10.4, following the suggestions on this site, I spoke to the tech support, who suggested (and emailed me) a series of fixes to try before hanging up.  Instead of doing those, I simply copied (by dragging it) the software that came with my disk (TurboTax Basic) onto my desktop and them moved it from there to the applications folder, then ran it and installed the update. No more error -36. No other problems. I would suggest everyone try this first before calling tech support, it could save you some time.

[meton0]

Anthony,

You are an idiot and represent how stupid your company is.

I have already described a solution to this problem two years ago!

If your software is still giving these problems just shows the level of concern that your company has for those who purchase and use your product!

Your technical support was no help at the time and I was happy to help others who had purchased your defective product at the time.

I wish I could help them more by telling them to not buy Turbo Tax, it is a complete rip-off.

So **bleep** you Anthony and **bleep** you Turbo Tax!

[grlewis]

I get error code 36 which stops install after 100 MB on my 1 year old MACBook and it won't continue to load.  I just loaded other SW so I believe something is wrong with the TurboTax disk I bought at Costco.  It is Home - Business versions.  Please help.  I need to get taxes done.   [phone number removed]