I had the same problem when I replaced my Windows XP with Windows 8.1. My Picture It 99 software was not compatible with WIN 8.1. I solved the problem by purchasing this replacement Picture It Express 7.0 software on ebay
http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Microsoft-Picture-It-Express-7-0-Windows-7-Windows-8-Vista-XP-PC-/301182188993?pt=US_Web_Desktop_Publishing_Software&hash=item461fdb7dc1

Also, my scanner would not work on the new WIN 8.1 platform, so I purchased a new reconditioned Epson Perfection V30 on ebay. Very happy with both purchases. Fortunately, I did not have to replace my HP 2550 laser printer.