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State Program Updates

2025 As 2025 TaxAct state editions are updated, details will be added below to highlight what’s new in each release. Download Information | Federal Update Information | https://www.taxact.com/forms Alabama 2025 1040 V1.0 01/09/2026 – Form 40NR (Nonresident return) not approved for paper or electronic filing. V1.01 01/15/2026 – Form 40NR can be e-filed or paper-filed. No […]

Downloading and Installing TaxAct

Once you receive your order confirmation, you can download and install your TaxAct Desktop program. The steps vary depending on whether you are an Individual (Consumer) or a Professional. TIP You can also download and install previously purchased software at no additional charge by following the steps below. Individual (Consumer) Steps To access the download […]

TaxAct Pro – Purchasing Options

New Customers There are multiple options available to accommodate the specific needs of your tax practice. See https://www.taxact.com/professional/products/pricing for detailed package and pricing information. Once you determine the type of returns you’ll be preparing and how many users you need (Single User or Multi-User), choose the edition or bundle that fits your practice and click Pre-Order. […]

State Program Release Dates

TaxAct State Editions Anticipated release dates for TaxAct State Editions are listed below, with most releasing in January. For more details about forms available in each return type, go to https://www.taxact.com/forms.  For more information on state release information, including updates on the availability of forms to print, see State Program Updates. 2025 Alabama Anticipated Release […]

Sign In Help

Below are the top FAQs for signing into your account: Sign-In Instructions (Online or Desktop) Recover Your Account (Locked or Disabled) If you can no longer access the phone number or email address on your account, use the “alternative verification” steps detailed in the above FAQ.  Manage or Update Account Information (Name, Address, Username, or […]

TaxAct Software For Previous Years

You can purchase the professional program for the current and immediately prior tax years online. If you want to use a TaxAct professional edition program for an earlier year, call Sales at (319) 536-3571 for assistance. Go to our Previous Year Editions webpage for more information. You can electronically file returns for the current and […]

Professional Editions – Phone Support

All TaxAct Customer Support: (319) 373-3600  Tax Professional Support: (319) 731-2682 Refer to our Contact TaxAct Service & Support page for support hours.

“Not Released” Download Message After Purchase

TaxAct Federal Desktop programs are available in early and final release versions. The early release version is usually released in late October for Professionals and December for Individual Consumers. The final versions of our Federal 1040 software programs are typically released in early January. The state modules begin releasing in early January and can continue […]

Desktop Versions – Deleting Form or Return

To delete a return, follow the steps below. If you want to delete a single form, go to our Desktop Versions – Deleting Form, Schedule, Document Received, or Worksheet FAQ. Consumer Desktop Navigation Instructions From within your TaxAct Desktop program, open a return you want to keep (an open return cannot be deleted). Create a new return […]

Professional – Verification Codes

Each time you sign in, you may be prompted to verify your identity via a 6-digit verification code sent by text (standard text rates apply), email (only if you do not receive the code via text), or using an authenticator app. This extra layer of protection ensures only you can access your account. To choose how to […]

Professional – Recover Online Username or Password

Follow these steps if you have forgotten your password: Click Sign In at the top-right of the TaxAct website. On the Sign In screen, enter the username, email address, or the mobile phone number associated with your TaxAct account. Click Sign In. On the Sign in with Password screen, click I forgot my password. A […]

Recover Your Account (Locked or Disabled)

Your account will be temporarily locked or disabled after multiple failed sign-in attempts. To regain access, either: Wait 15 minutes and try again Recover your password (steps below) Ensure that you are using the correct username. Password Troubleshooting If you have issues signing in: Double-check password spelling (use the “eye” icon) Turn off caps lock […]

Individual – Verification Codes

Each time you sign into your account, you are prompted to verify your identity with a 6-digit verification code sent by text (standard text rates apply) or authenticator app. You must have a valid, domestic phone number associated with your account to use TaxAct and complete verification steps. This extra layer of protection ensures that […]

Sign-In Instructions (Online or Desktop)

Online Sign In Go to Sign In Enter your username.  Select Remember this device if using a private device.  Click Sign in.  Complete the ReCAPTCHA.  Enter your password and click Continue.  Enter the verification code to complete sign-in. See Related Links for details. NOTE: You must use the online sign in to manage or update account […]

Troubleshooting Links for Third-Party Authenticators

TaxAct supports the use of several different third-party authenticators. For common issues that arise during verification, please see the troubleshooting links for each authenticator below. Duo Mobile https://guide.duo.com/common-issues Authy (mobile devices only) https://help.twilio.com/categories/19752372315419 Google Authenticator https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/185834?hl=en Microsoft Authenticator https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/account-billing/troubleshoot-problems-using-microsoft-authenticator-a3a74493-566b-4c2e-b949-a2789bac0fd3

Ordering from Outside the United States

If you live outside the United States of America, you can still order TaxAct software through the website, as long as all of the following are true: You have a valid US address, You have a valid US phone number, You will pay for your order with a US-based credit card. If you are a […]

Locked Data File (prXXmaster.dat, etc.) – Professional Editions

If you get an error message that the prXXmaster.dat (or other DAT) file is locked or the program is unable to read or write to it, there has been an interruption of, or conflict with, the TaxAct program (substitute XX for the tax year in use). This could be caused by security software, Windows rights […]

Desktop Versions – Ordering a State From Within the Program

To order a state module for your TaxAct Desktop program: Log in to your TaxAct Professional program. At the top, click Online, then click Order State Program. This launches the TaxAct website.  Add the necessary state to your shopping cart and complete your purchase. While still logged into the website, from the Navigate menu, select Orders […]

Macintosh Version Availability

At this time, there are no plans to release a TaxAct Desktop product for Mac operating systems. However, Mac users can still complete their tax returns by using TaxAct Online Products, which are fully compatible with most modern web browsers. For details on supported browsers and system compatibility, please visit our System Requirements page.

Prior Year Software No Longer Available

Due to maintenance and compatibility concerns, TaxAct no longer provides software for tax years prior to 2022. Filing a Return for 2021 or Earlier: Visit the IRS website to print the necessary tax forms for your specific tax year. For additional assistance, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040.

Enhanced Sign-In Requirements

To help prevent identity theft, protect our tax professional customers, and comply with IRS regulations, you will be required to sign in each time you open the software, and again after 30 minutes of inactivity or every 24 hours—whichever occurs first. These requirements are part of the IRS Security Summit initiatives and apply to all professional tax software solutions across the industry, including TaxAct […]

Professional Editions – Simplified Installation Procedure

The installation process for TaxAct Professional Editions has been simplified. The TaxAct Professional Installer will download and run the installation for all your products at once. The installer will also let you know which products are not yet available. When they become available, we’ll let you know. You need a TaxAct Professional account to sign […]

Placing an Order

All TaxAct products can be purchased on our website. Product offerings include: Individual (Form 1040): To order the TaxAct online program, go to our TaxAct Online Products webpage. To order the TaxAct download/desktop program, go to our TaxAct Download Products webpage. Business (Forms 990, 1041, 1065, 1120, or 1120-S): To order the TaxAct business programs, […]

Data Conversion Frequently Asked Questions

TaxAct now includes the ability to convert previous year 1040 ProSeries, TaxSlayer Pro™, and Taxwise® client data. Below are some Frequently Asked Questions: What types of returns are converted to TaxAct? ProSeries 1040 Individual (all files ending with .23i or .23I extension), TaxSlayer 1040 Individual (all files ending with .23.ir_ extension), and TaxWise 1040 Individual […]

Online Network – Professional Editions

If you choose the Online Network option in the TaxAct® Enterprise Edition Setup Wizard, you have the ability to share and access files without the need for a local network. The Online Network option allows you to store and share files between multiple users and all files are saved to TaxAct’s secure servers. To use this […]

Local Network – Professional Editions

If you choose the Local Network option in the TaxAct® Enterprise Edition Setup Wizard, you need to have an existing local network already in place. Typically, a local network centers around a server in your office which stores shared files. Users access those files from their individual workstations, but do not have copies of the […]

Features – Professional Editions

For an overview of features for the Professional Editions for Professional Preparers listed below, please visit our TaxAct Professional Tax Software website. Professional 1040 Professional 1040 State Professional 1065 (Partnerships) Professional 1065 State Professional 1120-S (S-Corp) Professional 1120-S State Professional 1120 (C-Corp) Professional 1120 State Professional 1041 (Estates and Trusts) Professional 1041 State (Limited states […]

Release Dates of TaxAct Editions

To reflect all of the changes to the IRS’s ever-changing tax code, all TaxAct software packages are updated on a regular basis. We release TaxAct federal programs in Early Release and Final versions.  As a TaxAct customer, you can download the latest versions of your TaxAct software from within your account. Use the table below […]

Downloading and Saving Tax Return History for TaxAct Professional Users

TaxAct Pro users can download and save PDF versions of all of their clients’ tax returns. Prior to Tax Year 2023 To download your clients’ tax return data from your TaxAct Pro account: Sign in to your TaxAct Professional app. In the top menu, click Preparer > Print Returns. In the Client Returns tab of […]

WebView2: Error When Installing

If you receive an error message when installing WebView2, this may be caused when the update to WebView2 is done by the Managed User and not the Admin User. To correct the error, update as the Admin using the following steps. Log in as Admin User. Navigate to the Download the WebView2 Runtime page on […]

Tax Professional – Data Rectification Request

TaxAct Professional customers can update information within their TaxAct account by signing into their account here: https://www.taxact.com/auth/. If you would like to update Firm, Preparer or Client information, you must sign-in to your TaxAct Professional Software to make these changes. Important: To the extent your request relates to your clients’ tax return information, such information […]

Professional Editions – Preparer Invitation Process

To share software downloads, unlimited or prepaid e-filing, reporting, or services, the Practice Owner has to send an email invitation to another preparer for them to join. The email will include a link for the preparer to create an account or sign into their account, and enter the information provided in the email. To invite […]

Professional Editions – Forms and Topics Assistant

To search in Forms Explorer: From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, Double-click to open a client return (if you are not already in one). In the Forms Explorer window, click the Search Forms field. Type a form number or related word (example: “4868” or “extension”), and Forms Explorer will show the related forms.  Click […]

Professional Editions – Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts available in the TaxAct Professional Edition program: Action Command Add Client Return Ctrl + N Add Line Item Details Ctrl + D Back Ctrl + Left Arrow Basic Info Ctrl + T Client Manager Ctrl + B Cut Ctrl + X Document Manager Ctrl + Alt + D Review Alerts Ctrl + A […]

Multiple Returns – Accessing the Wrong One

There are a couple reasons why the information you entered into your tax return is no longer visible. Information was entered, then the return was imported from the prior year. This overrides any information for the current year. This means current year information would need to be entered again. More than one return was created. […]

Updating Preparer Information

To change any of your preparer information that appears on the returns, cover letters, and invoice: In your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click Preparer in the upper menu bar, then hover your mouse over Master Information, then click Preparers. In the window that appears, click the Pencil Icon next to the Preparer Name you want to edit. […]

Attaching a Document – Professional Editions

The TaxAct Enterprise Edition allows preparers to attach and associate documents and images with client returns for record keeping purposes. It allows the attachment of scanned images of client documents (W-2, 1099, etc.). Although this does not automatically import the document into the return, you are able to keep scanned images of client documents with the […]

Professional Editions – Backing Up Client Returns and/or Preparer Information

With your TaxAct Professional Edition program, you can back up client returns and preparer information by following the steps below. Backing Up Client Returns (Local Backup Option) From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click File in the upper menu bar, hover your mouse over Backup, then click Client Return(s). Click the circle next to Local, then click Next. Click the Checkbox next […]

Professional Editions – Restoring Backups

Restore a Local Backup File From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click File in the upper menu bar, hover your mouse over Restore Backup, then click Client Return(s). Click the circle next to Local, then click Next. Click Browse, then navigate to the folder where you saved your backup return, click the folder, then […]

Professional Editions – Master Information General Tab

Various functions for TaxAct Professional Editions are toggled on and off through the Preparer Master Information box: From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click Preparer in the upper menu bar, hover your mouse over Master Information, then click General. In the window that appears, you can control the following: Filing/Printing Options Print the preparer’s […]

Options Preferences Toggling Items

Various functions for the TaxAct Professional Editions are toggled on and off through the Preparer Preferences dialog box: From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click Preparer in the upper menu bar. Click Preferences, then click Miscellaneous, to control the following: Client Manager Display Settings Show preview of selected client information Show only the last […]

Folders Envelopes and Covers

To access professional tax materials compatible with the TaxAct program, visit TaxAct Professional Resources. Visit Nelco Office Supplies to access information about obtaining folders, envelopes, and covers for your clients’ tax returns.

Updating Program Will Update Client Returns

When you check for (and run) updates for your TaxAct Professional program, any client returns affected will automatically be updated. When the update is complete, you’ll be prompted to view the Update Summary Report to review which client returns changed due to the update. The steps below allow you to view that report at a […]

Professional Editions – Donation Assistant Not Available

Donation Assistant is not available in TaxAct Professional Editions. We appreciate customers’ comments and suggestions as we use these to help determine ways to enhance TaxAct programs each year. A compilation of these comments and suggestions are maintained every season and are reviewed prior to the start of development for the following year’s product. Please […]

Accuracy Guarantee Professional Editions – Overrides

The TaxAct® Accuracy Guarantee does not cover the Professional Editions. Paid preparers are responsible for reviewing the return for accuracy. If you are signing the return as a paid preparer, the IRS will ultimately hold you accountable for the return’s accuracy. If you determine there is a problem, you can either override the entry or […]

Blank Data Remove Space

If there are spaces remaining in any of the fields, the TaxAct desktop program interprets those spaces as data (even though you do not see any letters or numbers in that field). To ensure empty fields don’t have spaces in them: From within your TaxAct return (Desktop or Professional), click the data entry field (if a […]

System Requirements

The TaxAct online products require the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or version 13 or higher of Safari.  TaxAct desktop products require Windows 10 or higher.  Go to our TaxAct System Requirements webpage for details.

Employer Reporting Requirements

The TaxAct® program supports the preparation of business tax returns, but not the employer reporting forms (example: Form 941, Form 944, Form 940, Form 945, Form 8027, or Form 5500). You can access the forms and other information through the IRS: IRS Publication 15 Publication 15 (Circular E), Employer’s Tax Guide Publication 15-A Employer’s Supplemental Tax […]

TaxAct Product Guarantees

TaxAct offers product guarantees for each of our product formats, online and download: Guarantees for TaxAct Online $100k Accuracy Guarantee (consumer 1040, 1065, 1120, and 1120-S products only) Maximum Refund Guarantee (consumer 1040 products only) Satisfaction Guarantee Guarantees for TaxAct Download $100k Accuracy Guarantee (consumer 1040, 1065, 1120, and 1120-S products only) Money-Back Guarantee Maximum […]

Professional Editions – Using the Master Information Preparers Tab

Individual preparer information can be added and/or modified in the Preparer Master Information dialog box. To quickly edit your information: Click Preparer in the upper menu bar, then click Edit My Preparer Information. To use the preparers tab: Click Preparer in the upper menu bar, hover your mouse over Master Information, then click Preparers. In […]

Master Forms Master Instruction Letter

To edit the Master Forms in the TaxAct Professional Edition program to include additional information (i.e. Charge By Form, Billing Invoice, Instruction Letter, Partner Letter, or Shareholder Letter): From within your TaxAct Professional Edition program, click Preparer in the upper menu bar. Hover your mouse over Master Information, then hover your mouse over Master Form […]