Return files are saved on the computer where they were created. This guide explains how to move them to a new computer.

Step 1: Find Your Return Files on Your Old Computer

Search your old computer for files ending in .xxt, where xx represents the tax year. For example:

You only need to copy the return files — you do not need to copy the StudioTax software itself.

Step 2: Copy the Files to Your New Computer

Copy the .xxt files you want to keep to your new computer. You can use a USB drive, an external hard drive, or a cloud storage service (such as OneDrive or Google Drive).

Optional — PDF and .TAX files: You may have also exported .TAX and/or .pdf files from your returns. If so:

• PDF files are useful and worth copying.
• .TAX files do not need to be copied — you can skip them.

Step 3: Open Your Returns on the New Computer

To open a return on your new computer, you need to download and install the version of StudioTax that matches the tax year of the file. For example, install StudioTax 2021 to open .21t files.

Once the correct version is installed, use the Open button to browse to the .xxt file and open it.

Tip: You can use your .24t file to create your 2025 return directly on your new computer. Use your existing licenses to activate the various versions of StudioTax.

Step 4: Clean Up Your Old Computer (Optional)

If you are planning to recycle or donate your old computer, remove your return files from it:

1. Search for and delete all .xxt and .xxt.backup files.
2. If you copied them, also delete any .TAX and .pdf files related to your returns.

This protects your personal and financial information before passing on the old computer.