How do I get started with TurboTax Desktop?

by TurboTax•1774• Updated 4 months ago

Install TurboTax

Go to InstallTurboTax.com.
Select your product.
Select your operating system.
Locate and select your Download file to start the installation process.
Accept the TurboTax License Agreement.

Your product should automatically install after accepting the license agreement.

Note: If you've purchased your 2024 software license code and want a CD for installation (U.S. products only), you can purchase one here.

Activate your software

After installing TurboTax Desktop, you'll be asked to sign in to your Intuit Account. Here's the screen you’ll see after you install the product:

A tabby cat is sitting on a piece of wood.

To activate your installed software:

Sign in to or create your Intuit Account.
- If there's a blank screen instead of a sign-in option, or you're redirected to the sign-in page multiple times, go here if you have a Mac or here if you have Windows.
- If you have an account and are having trouble logging in, go to I need help signing into my Intuit Account.
Enter your license code.
Start using TurboTax.

You need an Intuit Account to use TurboTax Desktop for a few reasons:

You can be confident you’re downloading and activating an official Intuit product.
You can more easily install TurboTax Desktop on another computer because we’ll store your license code.
Our experts can more quickly help you because they’ll know what product you’re using.

Common questions:

Will I still be able to e-file 5 federal returns using up to 5 computers?

Yes. You can prepare and print or e-file up to 5 of your own federal and state tax returns with TurboTax Desktop. You’ll still be able to install the software on up to 5 computers owned by you (at home or at work).

Will Intuit start storing my tax documents now that I’m using an Intuit Account?

When you create an Intuit Account, your TurboTax license code will be saved in your Intuit Account.

Will Intuit sell my personal information to other companies?

Intuit doesn't sell your personal information. Learn more about how we protect your privacy.

How do I switch my license code from one operating system to another?

Sign in to your Intuit Account.
Go to Products and Billing.
Under Need a download or a download for a different operating system (Windows or Mac)?, select enter your license code here.
After entering your license code, choose the operating system you haven't installed. For example, if you already have the Windows download for the license code, it'll only let you download the Mac download for the license code.
Once the operating system is unlocked, you can return to the downloads to install the program.

Am I being transitioned into using TurboTax Online?

No. Your downloaded software will stay on your computer. Check the minimum system requirements to make sure your computer is compatible. Your license code and optional product registration will be stored in your Intuit Account. To sign in or create an Intuit Account, you need ‌an internet connection.