Troubleshoot Installing and Running TurboTax (Windows)
Every computer has its own unique combination of components, settings, programs, services, and yes, users. TurboTax may install and run flawlessly on one computer, yet the same CD may stubbornly refuse to install, launch, or run on a different system.
This article troubleshoots the more common causes of installation failures or errors while running TurboTax. It is not an exhaustive list of every possible thing that can go wrong (you wouldn't want to see that article).
Before proceeding, take a look at the Other answers to try section to your left. You might find the specific answer you're looking for.
Part I - The Obvious and Not-So-Obvious Stuff
We know your computer is already plugged in and turned on, so we'll skip that step.
Here are some more items you'll want to double-check to ensure TurboTax installs and runs successfully:
- Making sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements.
- Verifying that you have administrator rights on your computer.
- Checking your TurboTax CD and computer's CD drive if you're installing from the CD.
- Cleaning up and defragmenting your hard drive.
- Using Windows Update to keep your system up-to-date.
- Updating your system's hardware drivers.
- Updating your security software for firewall, virus- and spyware protection.
- Closing all browser windows and programs before installing.
Less obvious things you should know include:
- Don't install TurboTax on a removable flash or thumb drive. Here's why.
- Temporarily turn off your firewall and virus-detection software before installing. (Remember to turn it back on after installation.)
- Remove unused firewall and virus-detection programs from your computer. Though outdated and out-of-use, they can still wreak havoc on an installation.
