How Do I Get Started with TurboTax Desktop?

Getting started with TurboTax Desktop is simple. You’ll need your license code, a compatible Windows or Mac computer, and an Intuit account to activate your software. Follow the steps below to install, activate, update, and begin your tax return.

1. Install TurboTax Desktop

You can install TurboTax Desktop either from a CD or from a download.

If You Have a CD

1. Insert the TurboTax CD into your computer’s CD/DVD drive.
2. On Windows, the installer may start automatically. If it doesn’t:
   • Open This PC / My Computer.
   • Double-click your CD/DVD drive.
   • Run setup.exe.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

If You Have a Download

1. Go to InstallTurboTax.com or sign in to your Intuit/TurboTax account.
2. Open the Downloads & Licenses or My Products section.
3. Select the correct TurboTax Desktop product (Deluxe, Premier, Home & Business, etc.) and tax year.
4. Choose your operating system (Windows or Mac) and click Download.
5. When the download finishes:
   • On Windows: double-click the .exe file.
   • On Mac: open the .dmg file and drag the TurboTax app into your Applications folder.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts and accept the License Agreement to finish installing.

2. Activate TurboTax with Your License Code

After installing, TurboTax Desktop will ask you to activate your product.

1. Launch TurboTax on your computer.
2. Sign in with your Intuit account, or create one if you don’t have it.
3. When prompted, enter your license code from:
   • The CD box or product card, or
   • Your order confirmation email or online account.
4. Click Continue or Activate and wait while TurboTax verifies your code.

Your Intuit account helps store your license details, making it easier to reinstall or download TurboTax again in the future.

3. Update TurboTax

Once activated, TurboTax may automatically check for updates. If not, look for a menu option like Check for Updates.

• Allow TurboTax to download the latest updates, forms, and fixes.
• Installing updates helps ensure your return uses the most current information available for that tax year.

4. Start Your Tax Return

After installation and updates, you’re ready to start using TurboTax Desktop:

• Click Start a New Return to begin from scratch, or
• Select Open / Import a Return if you have a previous year’s TurboTax .tax file.

TurboTax will guide you step by step, asking simple questions about your income, deductions, and credits, and then filling out the forms for you in the background.

5. Save Your Work and Come Back Anytime

With TurboTax Desktop, your tax data is stored locally on your computer, so you can work even when you’re offline.

• Use Save regularly while you’re working on your return.
• You can prepare and print multiple federal returns and e-file a limited number of returns (subject to TurboTax and IRS rules).
• Consider backing up your .tax files to an external drive or cloud storage for extra safety.

Quick FAQ

Do I have to use TurboTax Online?

No. TurboTax Desktop is a separate product that you install and run on your own computer. TurboTax Online runs in your web browser and does not use a desktop license code.

Where do I find my license code?

• On the CD box or printed product card inside the packaging.
• In your order confirmation email if you purchased a download.
• In your Intuit/TurboTax account under Downloads & Licenses or My Products.

Can I work offline?

Yes. Once TurboTax Desktop is installed and activated, you can work on your return without an internet connection. You will, however, need internet access to download updates and to e-file your return.

Summary

To get started with TurboTax Desktop, install it from your CD or download, activate it with your license code, run all available updates, and then start or import your tax return. Your returns are saved locally, and you can come back to finish them anytime.