Performing regular backups of client information, returns, and preparer information is critical — not only to the growth and success of your practice, but to your general peace of mind as well. And as we all know, that peace of mind is next to priceless at this time of year.

Back Up Client Returns to Your Local Computer – Non-Enterprise Editions

TaxAct recommends backing up your client files to an external hard drive or USB drive for safe keeping in a secure location. To utilize TaxAct’s backup and restore functions, follow these easy steps:

  1.  Click File > Backup > Client Return(s).
  2.  Select Local and click
  3.  Check the box next to the return(s) you want to back up and click (Notes: Click Select All to check all returns. Choose by return type in the drop down list.)
  4.  To change the backup file location, select Browse and choose the location using the directory tree.
  5.  Click A confirmation message will appear when files are backed up.

To back up Preparer Info, click File > Backup > Preparer’s Information > Local, specify a backup directory and click Select Folder. When performing future backups, you will be prompted to overwrite the files that already exist. Be sure to save the most recent versions.

For Enterprise Editions:

Back Up Client Returns on TaxAct’s Secure Servers

Networking online? No need to back up your data — it’s automatically saved to TaxAct’s secure servers.

Networking locally? We recommend backing up your data both on your preferred backup device (following the above instructions) and on TaxAct’s secure servers as an extra level of protection:

  1.  Click File > Backup > Client Return(s).
  2.  Choose Online, then click
  3.  Enter your TaxAct Account username and password.
  4.  Select the return(s) you want to back up. (Notes: Click Select All to check all returns. Sort by return type in the drop down list.)
  5.  To back up preparer information, check the box next to Backup Preparer Master Information.
  6.  Click Finish to upload the files. A confirmation message will appear when files are backed up.

You may be prompted to overwrite any files of the same name that exist. Be sure you are backing up from the correct file before proceeding. A confirmation message will appear when files have been backed up successfully.

If you ever need to restore files from your backup, simply navigate to File > Restore > Client Returns and select the file or files you wish to restore to your machine.

For more information regarding the setup and use of your TaxAct Professional software, please view the Professional Editions Setup Guide. If you need additional help, please contact us at TaxAct Professional Support, based at TaxAct headquarters in Iowa: (319) 731-2682.