Embarking on your tax journey can sometimes feel like navigating a complex maze. You start strong, enter some data, and then—whoops!—a realization hits. Maybe you selected the wrong filing status, or perhaps you've decided to switch from itemizing to the standard deduction, or even discovered a crucial document you missed. Whatever the reason, the thought of starting fresh on TurboTax crosses your mind. Don't panic! You're not alone, and it's surprisingly straightforward to "clear and start over" if you haven't yet filed your return.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently reset your TurboTax return and begin anew with a clean slate. Let's get started!
How to Start All Over on TurboTax: A Fresh Beginning for Your Taxes
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| How To Start All Over On Turbotax |
Understanding When You Can "Start Over"
Before we dive into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand when you can effectively start over on TurboTax. The ability to clear your return and begin anew largely depends on your filing status:
Unfiled Returns (Online Edition): If you're using TurboTax Online and haven't paid for your return, haven't e-filed, or haven't registered a free edition, you are generally in the clear to wipe the slate clean. This is the most common scenario for needing to start over.
Unfiled Returns (Desktop/CD Edition): For TurboTax Desktop or CD versions, it's even simpler. You can just create a new return without needing to "clear" anything from your previous attempts. Each return is a separate file on your computer.
Filed Returns: If you've already paid for and successfully e-filed your return, or mailed it in, you cannot simply "start over." In this case, you will need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X for federal). This is a more complex process designed to correct mistakes on an already-submitted tax return. This guide focuses on starting over before filing.
Step 1: Assess Your Situation – Why Do You Need a Fresh Start?
Alright, let's begin! Take a moment to think about why you're considering starting over. Is it a minor tweak you could easily fix? Or is it a fundamental error that makes re-entering everything seem like the most efficient path?
Perhaps you initially chose the wrong tax year.
Maybe you realized you have significant business expenses you overlooked.
Or, you simply feel overwhelmed by the current state of your return and want to simplify.
Understanding your reason will help you decide if a full "clear and start over" is truly necessary or if a targeted correction might suffice. For substantial changes or complete restarts, "clear and start over" is your best bet.
Step 2: Back Up (If Applicable and Desired)
While the goal is to start fresh, sometimes it's wise to have a copy of your current (flawed) progress, just in case you need to reference something you've already entered. This step is particularly relevant for desktop users.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Online Users
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Option 1: Screenshot Important Sections: If there are specific numbers or details you might want to remember, consider taking screenshots of those sections.
Option 2: Print a Summary (if available): Depending on how far along you are, TurboTax Online might offer a summary or preview of your return. If it does, print it to PDF or physically, if you wish. Keep in mind, this won't be a complete return, but a snapshot of your progress.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Desktop/CD Users
Simply Create a New File: This is the beauty of the desktop version. Go to File > New Tax Return. Your existing (flawed) return will remain untouched as a separate file. You can even rename it to "My 2024 Tax Return - DRAFT" to keep it organized.
Step 3: Navigating to the "Clear & Start Over" Option
Now, let's get to the core of starting over! The steps vary slightly depending on whether you're using the online version or the desktop software.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Online Users
Log In: Go to the TurboTax website (turbotax.intuit.com) and sign in to your account.
Open Your Return: Once logged in, click to open or continue your return for the tax year you're working on.
Find "Tax Tools": On the left-hand side of the screen, you'll see a menu. Look for "Tax Tools." Click on it.
Select "Clear & Start Over": A sub-menu will appear. From this menu, select "Clear & Start Over."
Confirm Your Decision: TurboTax will present a warning message, informing you that this action cannot be undone and will delete all entered information. Read this carefully! If you're absolutely sure, click "Yes, Clear My Return" or a similar confirmation button.
Important Note: If you do not see the "Clear & Start Over" option, it likely means you've already paid for your return, e-filed it, or registered a free edition. In these cases, as mentioned, you would need to file an amended return if you've already filed. If you haven't paid or filed but still don't see it, double-check that you're in the correct tax year or contact TurboTax support.
Sub-heading: For TurboTax Desktop/CD Users
Open the Software: Launch your TurboTax Desktop software.
Start a New Return: Instead of opening your existing (flawed) file, go to the top menu bar. Click on "File" and then select "Start New Tax Return."
Choose Your Starting Point: The software will prompt you to choose how you want to start your new return (e.g., from scratch, by importing last year's data). Select "Start a new return from scratch" or the appropriate option for a clean slate.
No "Clear" Needed: For desktop versions, you don't actually "clear" the data of your old file. You simply start a new, separate file. Your previous file will still exist on your computer if you saved it. This is a key difference from the online version.
Step 4: Confirming the Clean Slate
After following the steps above, you should be greeted with a fresh TurboTax interview process.
For Online Users: The screen should revert to the very beginning, asking you basic questions like your filing status and personal information, just as it did when you first started. This confirms that all previous data has been wiped.
For Desktop Users: You'll be working on a brand new, empty tax file. You can save it with a new name to distinguish it from any previous attempts.
Step 5: Beginning Anew – The Right Way This Time!
Now that you have your clean slate, it's time to approach your tax preparation with newfound clarity.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
Sub-heading: Gather All Your Documents
W-2s, 1099s (various types), interest statements, dividend statements, K-1s.
Mortgage interest statements (Form 1098), property tax records.
Student loan interest statements (Form 1098-E), tuition statements (Form 1098-T).
Child care expenses, medical expenses, charitable donation receipts.
Records for self-employment income and expenses (if applicable).
Last year's tax return (for reference, especially if importing is an option or for reviewing prior year details).
Having all your documents organized and at hand before you start entering data will significantly reduce the chances of needing another restart.
Sub-heading: Take Your Time
Don't rush through the interview process. Read each question carefully. If you're unsure about a specific entry, utilize TurboTax's help features, which are typically very robust. Look for the question mark icons or "Learn More" links.
Sub-heading: Double-Check as You Go
As you enter information, take a moment to verify its accuracy. A quick glance can catch simple typos or misplaced numbers before they become larger issues.
Sub-heading: Utilize TurboTax's Review Features
Once you've entered all your information, TurboTax provides a thorough review process. Do not skip this! It checks for errors, missed deductions, and potential audit flags. This is your final line of defense before committing to filing.
Step 6: Proceeding to File (When Ready)
Once you're confident that your new return is accurate and complete, you can proceed to the filing steps. This typically involves:
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
Final Review: TurboTax will run a final check and present you with your refund or amount due.
Payment (if applicable): If you owe taxes, you'll arrange payment. If you're due a refund, you'll choose your refund method (direct deposit is usually fastest).
Selecting Filing Method: Choose between e-file (recommended for speed and accuracy) or print and mail.
E-file Authorization (if applicable): You'll electronically sign your return using your prior year's AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) or a PIN.
Transmit Your Return: The final step is to transmit your return to the IRS and/or state tax authorities.
Congratulations! You've successfully started over and are on your way to a properly filed tax return.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to delete my TurboTax account entirely?
You generally cannot completely delete your TurboTax account. However, you can clear all tax returns from it, effectively starting fresh within the existing account. If you just want to abandon an account and create a new one, you can do that too, and the old one will simply remain inactive.
How to amend a tax return after filing with TurboTax?
To amend a return you've already filed with TurboTax, log in to your account, open the return you filed, and look for an option to "Amend" or "Amend (Year) Tax Return." TurboTax will then guide you through the process of filing Form 1040-X to correct your original return.
How to start a new tax return for a different tax year in TurboTax?
When you log into TurboTax Online, you'll typically be presented with the current tax year. If you need to file for a different year, look for an option to "Start a new return" or navigate to "My Returns" where you might see options for prior tax years. For desktop, simply open the TurboTax software for the desired tax year.
How to fix a rejected TurboTax return without starting over?
If your TurboTax return was rejected, you typically do not need to start over. TurboTax will provide you with the reason for the rejection (e.g., incorrect AGI, wrong Social Security Number). You'll usually be able to log back into your return, correct the specific error, and then re-transmit it without clearing all your data.
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
How to get a copy of a previously filed TurboTax return?
You can access copies of your previously filed tax returns by logging into your TurboTax account. Look for a section like "Tax Home" or "My Documents" where you can download PDF copies of your past returns. For desktop users, the files are saved on your computer.
How to use last year's TurboTax data to start a new return?
When starting a new return in TurboTax (both online and desktop), you'll often be given the option to import your data from the previous year's TurboTax return. This can save a lot of time by pre-filling personal information and other recurring details.
How to switch from TurboTax Online to TurboTax Desktop?
You cannot directly transfer a partially completed return from TurboTax Online to the desktop software. If you decide to switch, you'll need to start a new return from scratch in the desktop version and manually re-enter your information.
How to prevent needing to start over on TurboTax?
The best way to avoid starting over is to gather all your tax documents before you begin entering data. Take your time, read the questions carefully, and use TurboTax's help resources if you're unsure about any entry. Review your return thoroughly before filing.
How to contact TurboTax customer support for assistance?
If you're stuck or have specific questions about your return, you can typically find TurboTax customer support options on their website. Look for "Support," "Help," or "Contact Us" links, which may offer phone numbers, live chat, or a community forum.
How to clear a single form in TurboTax instead of starting over completely?
While "Clear & Start Over" wipes everything, TurboTax Online does allow you to delete individual forms or schedules if you've made a mistake on just one part of your return. You would typically navigate to the specific section where the form is generated (e.g., "Deductions & Credits" for Schedule A) and look for an option to delete that particular form. This is a less drastic measure if only a small portion of your return needs correcting.
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