Compatibility Files

With the upgrade from earlier versions of Windows to Windows Vista, Microsoft has implemented a new file system structure/policy. During installation of a program, if Windows cannot identify an application as having sufficient rights to insert specific data into certain folders, it will "hide" the actual application data files in a virtual storage location.

To the TaxACT application, the files will appear as being located in the expected location but the operating system automatically redirects the program to the virtual location instead.

If you can access your return files from within the application but cannot locate the actual files in Windows Explorer, please launch Windows Explorer, browse to the application directory, then locate and click the button on the top toolbar labeled "Compatibility Files". The resulting folder will display all of your client return files.

What if I can’t find the Compatibility Files Button?

Virtual Store

Sometimes Windows Vista will "hide" the "Compatibility Files" button and you may be unable to locate your client return files. If you cannot locate your client’s return files using the "Compatibility Files" button, you may find them by going directly to the "Virtual Store" location.

1. Click on the Windows start button and then click on "Computer".
2. Click on "Organize" and then on "Folder and Search Options".
3. On the "View" tab under "Hidden Files and Folders" choose "Show Hidden Files and Folders" (highlighted in image below).

   

4. Click "OK".
5. Now navigate to the following folder:

   C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\VirtualStore\Program Files\2nd Story Software\TaxACT 2010 Preparer’s – 1040 Edition

   …where username denotes your Windows username.

For more information located at Microsoft’s support home page, feel free to click the following link: Common file issues in Windows Vista

Additional information on this feature and many more implemented in Windows Vista located on Answers.com: Security and safety features new to Windows Vista