Intuit offers the "TurboTax" software program to tax filers via the Internet and on software installation CD. Online users are at a greater advantage, however, because the program receives near instantaneous updates when available. The installed program on a computer must connect to Intuit for updates. According to the Internal Revenue Service's website, “We strongly encourage taxpayers to file electronically, particularly those affected by late tax law changes. Filing electronically makes things easier by reducing errors and speeding up refunds." Intuit understands the importance of offering current software and they keep the process uncomplicated.
Update for Windows
Click on the icon to open TurboTax on your computer. Also, ensure the computer is connected to the Internet.
Click the "Online" menu option, then select "Check for Updates." Pause while the TurboTax program downloads and installs the latest software update. Monitor the computer screen for any additional instructions or error messages.
Click the "Online" menu option, then select "Updater Preferences." Make your selection, then click the "OK" button to confirm and save your preferences. With this step, you can configure TurboTax to download updates automatically whenever you open the program and connect to the internet.
Update for Mac
Click on the icon to open TurboTax on your computer. Also, ensure the computer is connected to the Internet.
Click the "TurboTax" menu option, then select "Check for Updates." Pause while the TurboTax program downloads and installs the latest software update. Monitor the computer screen for any additional instructions or error messages.
Click the "TurboTax" menu option, then select "Preferences." Click to place a check mark in the box next to "Check for updates automatically."
Tips
If your computer lacks Internet access, then manually download the TurboTax update from a computer that does have access and save it to a USB flash drive or memory stick. You can also use this manual update method for TurboTax software from earlier tax years.
Warnings
Be careful to differentiate between the terms "update" and "upgrade." Updates include software security and performance improvements, as well as last-minute changes in tax laws. Upgrades, however, do not convert earlier versions to the latest version of TurboTax, i.e. "2008" to "2009."
References
Tips
- If your computer lacks Internet access, then manually download the TurboTax update from a computer that does have access and save it to a USB flash drive or memory stick. You can also use this manual update method for TurboTax software from earlier tax years.
Warnings
- Be careful to differentiate between the terms "update" and "upgrade." Updates include software security and performance improvements, as well as last-minute changes in tax laws. Upgrades, however, do not convert earlier versions to the latest version of TurboTax, i.e. "2008" to "2009."
Writer Bio
Damarious Page is a financial transcriptionist specializing in corporate quarterly earnings and financial results. Page holds a medical transcription certificate and has participated in an extensive career analysis and outplacement group workshop through Right Management. The West Corporation trained and certified him to handle customer support for home appliance clients.