If you're using a TurboTax CD/Download product for tax year 2020 and have received multiple activation prompts resulting in your product not launching when attempting to install and activate your license number, there are a number of methods you can try to fix this.
Who's impacted?
- TurboTax 2020 CD/Download users
- Users who have successfully activated their licenses
- Users who are prompted to activate every time TurboTax launches
- Users who have a valid activation code
- Users who can't get TurboTax to open after activation
Resolution
This error is caused by the internet connection being unable to establish a connection to our server for license activation. There can be many reasons for this, and they may not impact your regular internet usage and activity.
One of the following methods should resolve this issue. If they're successful, your TurboTax software will skip activation and open the starting screen, where you can begin or continue to file your return.
Method 1: Temporarily disable your antivirus/anti-malware/firewall software
Disabling software that can block our program from connecting to our activation server can quickly resolve this issue. You may also want to work with the provider of your protection software to add TurboTax in trusted list, allowing it to connect to the internet.
This includes disabling proxy and VPN connections.
Method 2: Restart your router/modem
- Remove the power cord from the router and modem
- Wait at least 10 seconds after all lights on the router have gone out
- Reconnect the power cord to the router
Method 3: Configure your TCP/IP settings
Note: These settings are typically the default settings for most users. However, if you're an advanced user and are comfortable making changes regarding internet protocol settings, follow these steps:
- Select Start and Control Panel
- Select View network status and tasks under Networking and Internet
- Select Change adapter settings
- Press and hold (or right-click) Local Area Connection and select Properties
- Select Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) followed by Properties
- Select Obtain an IPv6 address automatically, then Obtain DNS server address automatically, followed by OK
- Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) and Properties
- Select Obtain an IP address automatically, then Obtain DNS server address automatically, and OK
Method 4: IP config command line tool
Note: These steps should be completed by an intermediate to advanced user of Windows. If you aren't comfortable making these changes, consult a local IT professional.
- Select Start, enter command prompt in the Search Programs and files box, press and hold (or right-click) Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator
- At the command prompt, enter the following commands. Press Enter after each command:
- ipconfig /flushdns
- ipconfig /registerdns
- ipconfig /release
- ipconfig /renew
- Launch TurboTax
If you're still experiencing issues after following these steps, contact a local support technician for additional assistance.
Related information
What should I do if I can't activate TurboTax CD/Download using Internet Activation?
What should I do if I'm getting a TurboTax activation error?
I'm having issues with my TurboTax Online activation