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how the new TurboTax (both Desktop and Online) works with Windows operating systems
1. TurboTax Desktop Compatibility with Windows OS
Official System Requirements (2024–2025)
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Supported Windows versions: Windows 10 (64-bit) and Windows 11 (64-bit) gotaxation+3TurboTax+3TurboTax Live Community+3.
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RAM: At least 4 GB recommended TurboTax+2TurboTax Live Community+2.
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Disk space: 1 GB for installation, plus up to 4.5 GB more if .NET 4.8 isn’t already installed TurboTax+2TurboTax Live Community+2.
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Printer: A compatible inkjet or laser printer required; administrator rights needed TurboTax+1.
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Additional software: Microsoft Visual C++ 2022 Redistributable and .NET 4.8 included with Installer TurboTax+2TurboTax Live Community+2.
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Display resolution: Minimum 1024×768 TurboTax+1.
Important Notice for TurboTax 2025
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Starting with Tax Year 2025, desktop versions will no longer support Windows 10. Windows 11 (or later) will be required due to security concerns—aligned with Microsoft’s end-of-support for Windows 10 in October 2025 Slashdot+1.
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TurboTax Online remains available via web browsers, regardless of OS turbotax.community.intuit.ca.
2. TurboTax Online System Requirements
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OS Supported: Broad compatibility; works on Windows 10.x and Windows 8.1 with supported web browsers TurboTax+1.
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Browsers: Firefox ≥ 68.x, Edge ≥ 17, Chrome ≥ 74.x, Opera ≥ 64.x TurboTax+1.
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Hardware: Minimal needs—Pentium 4+ CPU, 1 GB RAM, 1024×768 resolution, broadband internet TurboTax Live Community.
3. User Experiences & Known Issues
Installation or Activation Problems on Windows 11
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A user shared:
“I was having the issue of my Turbotax 2023 Business not loading the activation screen with Windows 11. (spinning dots)” Reddit.
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Another workaround:
“Disabling firewall didn’t work but adding TurboTax to allow it to go through the firewall worked!!” Reddit.
Crashes or Stuck Launches
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For TurboTax 2024 Deluxe:
“Remove all versions of C++ on your computer and reinstall TurboTax. It will reinstall C++ and it worked!” Reddit.
Browser or Download Glitches
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A community member noted:
The TurboTax site failed to load on Windows 11, but worked when using an older Windows 10 PC—then they transported the installer to the newer machine to complete the install Reddit.
Summary Table
| TurboTax Version | Supported Windows OS | Key Requirements | Notable Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop (2024–2025) | Windows 10 & Windows 11 (64-bit) | 4 GB RAM, 1 GB disk + .NET, admin rights | 2025 onward: Windows 11 only; no more Win 10 support |
| Online | Windows 10.x, 8.1 via browser | 1 GB RAM, modern browser, broadband | Works in browser across Windows platforms |
Recommendations & Next Steps
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If you plan to use TurboTax Desktop beyond 2024, ensure you’re on Windows 11—it will no longer support Windows 10 starting with the 2025 tax year.
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For smoother installs:
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Run as Administrator
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Temporarily disable or adjust firewall/antivirus
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Allow C++ and .NET components to install/reinstall properly
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If you encounter errors like activation hang-ups or crashes, try transferring the installer from a working system or reinstalling dependencies as community users have done.
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Alternatively, TurboTax Online remains accessible as long as your browser and OS support it.
