Q: I set up Time Machine yesterday (using a WD 2T drive) and got the message that the first backup was complete.  I can open every file I try except Quicken and TurboTax.  What am I doing wrong?

If you mean that you're trying to open files on the backup volume, don't do that. Restore them first.

Mac Basics: Time Machine backs up your Mac

burgessiii22 wrote:

 

Thanks for the answer Linc, but how do I check to make sure the back-up process is working if I don't think I need to restore?

1. Create a test file with Text Edit (or any other program) and save it to your desktop.
2. Run Time Machine from the menu bar.
3. When the Time Machine icon in the menu bar stops spinning, drag your test file to the trash.
4. Open Time Machine and go back 1 page. You should see your test file on the desktop.

You can never be absolutely sure, but you can pick some files at random, restore them to a new location, such as the Desktop, open the restored copies, and verify the contents.

For real data safety you always need more than one backup.