So, you're deep into your tax return on TurboTax, perhaps you've entered a heap of information, and suddenly you realize... uh oh. Maybe you've made a significant mistake, started the wrong type of return, or simply want to wipe the slate clean and begin with a fresh perspective. Don't panic! It's a common desire, and thankfully, TurboTax offers ways to start over.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, for both TurboTax Online and the CD/Download versions. We'll cover the crucial conditions under which you can "clear and start over" and what to do if those conditions don't apply to you. Let's get started!
Are you sure you want to start over?
Before diving in, take a deep breath. Sometimes, a "mistake" can be corrected by simply going back to a previous section and editing the information. Starting over means losing all the data you've entered, so ensure this is truly what you want to do. If you're just looking to correct a small detail, navigating back through the interview sections might be a better approach. However, if you're facing a complete overhaul, then yes, starting over is the way to go!
Step 1: Understand the "Clear & Start Over" Conditions
This is the most crucial step. TurboTax has specific rules about when you can simply "clear and start over" with a click of a button. These rules primarily apply to TurboTax Online.
Conditions for "Clear & Start Over" (TurboTax Online):
You have NOT paid for your online edition. This is the golden rule. If you've already paid the TurboTax fee, or arranged for it to be deducted from your refund, the "Clear & Start Over" option will likely be unavailable.
You have NOT filed your tax return. This one is pretty straightforward. Once your return is e-filed or mailed, you cannot simply "clear and start over." At that point, you would need to file an amended return if you discover an error.
You have NOT registered your Free Edition. If you're using a free version and have registered it, the option to clear might be limited.
If you meet all these conditions, you're in luck! The process will be relatively simple. If not, don't worry, there are still options, but they involve a slightly different approach.
Step 2: Starting Over in TurboTax Online
This is the easiest scenario, assuming you meet the conditions in Step 1.
Sub-heading: Accessing the "Clear & Start Over" Option
Sign in to your TurboTax account. Go to the TurboTax website and log in with your credentials.
Open or Continue Your Return. You should be taken to the "Welcome back" screen or directly into your return.
Locate "Tax Tools." On the left-hand side menu of the screen, you will typically find an option labeled "Tax Tools." You might need to scroll down a bit to see it.
Click on "Clear & Start Over." Once you click on "Tax Tools," a drop-down menu will appear. Look for and select "Clear & Start Over."
Confirm Your Action. A pop-up window will appear, asking you to confirm if you truly want to clear your return. This is your last chance to back out! Read the warning carefully. If you're sure, click "Yes" or "Confirm" to proceed.
Voila! Your TurboTax return should now be reset, and you can begin entering your information from scratch.
Step 3: Starting Over in TurboTax CD/Download Software
The process for the desktop version of TurboTax is different because your tax file is stored locally on your computer, not on the TurboTax server. You don't "clear" an existing return in the same way; instead, you simply start a new one.
Sub-heading: Creating a New Return
Open your TurboTax Desktop software. Launch the application on your computer.
Navigate to the "File" Menu. In the upper left-hand corner of the program screen, you will see a menu option labeled "File."
Select "New Tax Return." From the "File" drop-down menu, choose "New Tax Return."
Save Your Old Return (Optional but Recommended!). If you think there's even a slight chance you might need the data from your previous, in-progress return, it's a good idea to save it under a different name before starting a new one.
To do this, before selecting "New Tax Return," go to "File" > "Save As." Give your current return a descriptive name (e.g., "MyTaxReturn_Attempt1_DatedJune27"). This way, you have a backup.
Proceed with Your New Return. Once you select "New Tax Return," the software will open a fresh, blank return, allowing you to start over from the very beginning.
Sub-heading: Deleting Unwanted Local Files
After starting a new return, you might want to delete the old, unwanted tax file from your computer to avoid confusion.
Close TurboTax. Ensure the TurboTax software is completely closed.
Locate Your Tax Files. By default, TurboTax files are usually stored in your Documents folder, within a "TurboTax" folder, and then a subfolder for the specific tax year (e.g., Documents > TurboTax > 2024).
Identify the Unwanted File. Look for the
.taxfile that corresponds to the return you want to delete (e.g.,MyTaxReturn_Attempt1_DatedJune27.tax2024).Move to Recycle Bin/Trash. Drag the unwanted
.taxfile to your Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac).Empty Recycle Bin/Trash. To permanently delete the file and free up space, empty your Recycle Bin/Trash. Be absolutely sure you want to delete it, as this action is irreversible!
Step 4: What if "Clear & Start Over" isn't available?
If you've already paid for TurboTax Online, or your situation doesn't allow for the "Clear & Start Over" option, you cannot simply wipe the slate clean. However, you still have a few avenues:
Sub-heading: Manually Editing Your Return
Go back through the sections. The most common approach is to simply go back through each section of your tax return and manually edit the information. TurboTax allows you to navigate freely between sections. While this might seem tedious, it's often faster and less prone to errors than trying to re-enter everything from scratch, especially if only certain sections need adjustment.
Utilize the "Topic List" or "Forms" views. Depending on your TurboTax version, you might have a "Topic List" or "Forms" view that lets you jump directly to specific forms or topics. This can save time if you know exactly where the erroneous data is located.
Sub-heading: Starting a New Account (Not Recommended for Most)
Last Resort. Creating an entirely new TurboTax account and starting a fresh return is a last resort and generally not recommended unless you have a compelling reason (e.g., significant privacy concerns, or you've definitively decided to abandon the current account).
Potential Complications. This can lead to confusion with multiple accounts tied to your personal information and may make it harder to access prior year returns or support. If you do this, ensure you never file from the old account.
Step 5: Verifying Your Fresh Start
After taking the steps to start over, it's a good idea to confirm that your return is indeed clean.
Check your refund/tax due. When you start a fresh return, your refund or tax due amount should typically show $0.00 until you begin entering income and deductions.
Review your forms. If you're in the desktop version, you can go to the "Forms" mode and see if any forms are populated. They should be blank or show default values for a new return.
Start with your basic information. Begin entering your personal details (name, SSN, address) to ensure the system recognizes you and your new, blank return.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to know if I've paid for my TurboTax Online return?
You can typically check your TurboTax account's "Order History" or "Billing" section. If a payment has been processed, it will be listed there.
How to delete a previous year's return in TurboTax Online?
TurboTax Online generally doesn't allow you to "delete" previous years' filed returns from your account, as they are kept for your records. You can, however, delete unfiled returns that show up on your "My Returns" page by looking for a trash can icon next to them.
How to delete an in-progress return if the "Tax Tools" menu isn't visible?
Sometimes, the "Tax Tools" menu might not be immediately visible if you're deep within an interview section. Try navigating back to the main "Welcome back" screen or a primary section (like "My Info") where the left-hand menu is typically more prominent. If you're using the mobile app, you might need to sign out of the app and then sign in via a web browser to access these tools.
How to start a new return for a different tax year in TurboTax Desktop?
In TurboTax Desktop, you can easily start a new return for a different tax year by going to "File" > "New Tax Return" and then selecting the appropriate tax year. You'll need the software version for that specific year.
How to transfer data from a previous year's TurboTax return if I start over?
If you've started a new return, you can still import data from a previous year's filed TurboTax return. When you begin the new return, TurboTax will often prompt you with an option to import prior-year data. This is a great way to save time on basic information.
How to get a refund if I started over after paying for TurboTax?
If you've paid for TurboTax and then decide to start over and file a new return, you generally won't get a separate refund for the initial payment. The payment covers your access to the software for that tax year. If you believe there was an error in billing, you would need to contact TurboTax customer support directly.
How to avoid making major mistakes that require starting over?
Review as you go: Don't wait until the very end.
Gather all documents first: Have all your W-2s, 1099s, and other tax documents ready.
Take breaks: Tax preparation can be complex; step away if you feel overwhelmed.
Use the "What If" scenarios: TurboTax often has tools to see how changes impact your refund.
How to ensure all old data is gone after "Clear & Start Over"?
After using "Clear & Start Over" in TurboTax Online, the system effectively resets your return to a blank state. You can confirm this by checking your refund/tax due amount (it should be $0) and by starting to re-enter your personal information.
How to get help from TurboTax if I'm stuck?
TurboTax offers various support options, including their online community forums, FAQs, and direct customer support (phone or chat), especially if you're using a paid version or TurboTax Live. Look for "Help" or "Support" links within the software or on their website.
How to know if I should amend instead of starting over?
If you have already filed your tax return (e-filed or mailed), you cannot "clear and start over." In this scenario, if you discover an error or missing information, you must file an amended tax return (Form 1040-X for federal returns). TurboTax can guide you through this process as well.