The TaxAct desktop software allows you to create a backup file of the current return you are working on. This file can then later be restored should you need to recover that specific version.  This file will be designated with a new extension, .baX where X is related to the tax year in question.  For example, a typical 2018 backup return would look like "2018 Individual Tax Return.ta8.ba8."

The correct procedure to back up your file is:

1. Click File on the main menu bar.
2. On the dropdown menu, click Backup.
3. In the Save As dialog box, you will need to choose where you wish to save the backup return.

To restore your backup:

1. Click the File menu.
2. Click Restore Backup.
3. In the dialog box, locate and click your backup file.
4. Click Open.