How to Download TurboTax After You Purchase
Bought the download version? Here's how to grab the installer file, save it where you can find it, and get ready to install.
Heads up: InstallTurboTax.us is an independent, taxpayer-friendly help site. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Intuit Inc. or TurboTax®, and we are here only to make your tax software easier to use. Always verify pricing and features on the official TurboTax site. Full disclaimer.
Find your purchase confirmation
When you buy the download version of TurboTax, you get a confirmation that includes your license code and a way to access the installer. Start by tracking down that email or the order page from wherever you made your purchase.
This guide is independent and not affiliated with Intuit. Use the official TurboTax site for the actual download and for any account questions.
Sign in to the right account
If you bought from the official site, sign in to the same account you used at checkout. Your downloads and license codes live in your account history. Signing in with a different email address is one of the most common reasons people can't find their purchase.
Choose the correct product and platform
On the download page, double-check two things before you click: the tax year and the operating system. Windows and Mac use different installer files, so pick the one that matches your computer. Grabbing the wrong build is an easy mistake that just wastes your time.
Save the installer where you can find it
When the download starts, your browser usually drops the file in your Downloads folder. The Windows file ends in .exe and the Mac file ends in .dmg. If your connection drops mid-download, delete the partial file and start over rather than trying to open it.
Run the installer
Double-click the file to kick off setup. On Windows, allow the app to make changes when you're prompted. On Mac, open the disk image and drag TurboTax into Applications. Then enter your license code when it asks.
For the full walkthrough, check out our platform-specific install guides.
Keep a copy for reinstalls
It's worth keeping the downloaded installer and your license code together. If you switch computers or need a clean reinstall during the season, having the file on hand saves you from downloading it all over again. A USB drive or a cloud folder both work great for this.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I download TurboTax after buying it?＋
Download access is generally available throughout the filing season and for a while afterward, but it isn't unlimited. To be safe, download and save the installer soon after you purchase.
Can I download it again if I delete the file?＋
Usually yes, from your account order history on the official site, as long as the download is still available for that tax year.
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