Sometimes, as we navigate the complexities of tax season, a fresh start is exactly what's needed. Perhaps you've entered incorrect information, decided to use a different filing status, or simply feel overwhelmed and want to begin with a clean slate. Whatever the reason, TurboTax offers ways to start all over, whether you're using their online platform or the desktop software.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently reset your tax return and begin anew.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Let's Hit the Reset Button on Your Taxes!
Have you ever been knee-deep in your tax return, only to realize you've gone completely off track? Maybe you've imported the wrong W-2, miscalculated a deduction, or simply feel like the whole thing is a tangled mess. It happens to the best of us! The good news is, you don't have to struggle through a confusing or incorrect return. TurboTax provides a straightforward way to clear everything and start from scratch. So, take a deep breath, and let's get you back on the right path to a stress-free tax filing.
Before we dive into the "how-to," it's crucial to understand a few important caveats. The ability to "clear and start over" in TurboTax depends on how far along you are in the filing process.
Important Considerations Before You Start Over:
Payment Status: If you've already paid for your TurboTax Online product, or if the TurboTax fee has been deducted from your refund, you generally cannot use the "Clear & Start Over" option. In these cases, you'll need to manually edit your return.
Product Registration: For TurboTax Online, if you've registered your product, the "Clear & Start Over" option might be unavailable.
E-filing/Mailing: If you have already e-filed or mailed your return, you cannot simply "start over." Your return is already in the IRS's (or state's) system. In this scenario, you would need to amend your return, which is a different process entirely. This guide focuses on starting over before your return is filed.
Now, let's get to the actual steps!
Starting Over on TurboTax Online
This is the most common scenario for many users. The online version of TurboTax offers a convenient "Clear & Start Over" feature.
Step 1: Log In and Access Your Return
First things first! Open your web browser and go to the TurboTax website.
Sign In: Enter your TurboTax account credentials (User ID and Password). If you're already logged in, you might see a dashboard showing your current tax return status.
Open Your Return: If you're not immediately in your return, click on the option to continue your return or open your return.
Step 2: Locate "Tax Tools"
As you navigate within your return, look for the left-hand menu. This menu contains various options and tools.
Scroll Down: Sometimes, the "Tax Tools" option is near the bottom of this menu, so you might need to scroll down to find it.
Click on "Tax Tools": Once you've spotted it, click on "Tax Tools."
Step 3: Select "Clear & Start Over"
After clicking "Tax Tools," a sub-menu or a new screen will appear.
Find "Clear & Start Over": Within this section, you should see an option clearly labeled "Clear & Start Over."
Be cautious here! This action is irreversible once confirmed.
Step 4: Confirm Your Action
TurboTax will present a confirmation prompt asking if you are sure you want to clear your return. This is your last chance to reconsider.
Read the Warning: Take a moment to read the warning message carefully. It will typically inform you that all entered information will be erased.
Confirm: If you are absolutely certain you want to proceed, select "Yes" or "Confirm" to finalize the process.
What Happens Next?
Once you confirm, your TurboTax Online return will be completely wiped clean. You'll be taken back to the beginning, as if you just started your taxes for the very first time. You can then choose your TurboTax product again and begin entering your information with a fresh perspective.
Starting Over on TurboTax Desktop (CD/Download Version)
The process for the desktop version is a bit different as your tax file is stored locally on your computer. You won't find a "Clear & Start Over" button within the software in the same way as the online version. Instead, you'll effectively start a new return or delete the existing file.
Option 1: Starting a New Return Within the Software
This is often the simplest way if you want to keep your previous, incorrect return as a reference (though it's generally recommended to delete it to avoid confusion).
Step 1: Open TurboTax Desktop
Launch your TurboTax Desktop software.
Step 2: Go to "File" Menu
Look at the top left corner of the TurboTax program screen. You'll see the traditional menu bar.
Click "File": Select the "File" menu.
Step 3: Select "New Tax Return"
From the "File" dropdown menu, choose "New Tax Return."
This will open a brand new, blank tax return. You can then proceed as if it's your first time using the software for the current tax year.
Managing Your Old Return (Important!)
When you start a new return this way, your previous, incorrect return still exists on your computer. To avoid confusion:
Rename the Old File: Before starting the new one, or immediately after, consider renaming the old tax file (e.g., "MyTaxes2024_Incorrect.tax2024"). This makes it clear which file is the one you're working on.
Save the New File with a Distinct Name: When you save your new return, use a clear and distinct name (e.g., "MyTaxes2024_Corrected.tax2024").
Option 2: Deleting the Tax File from Your Computer
This method completely removes the old return. Only use this if you are absolutely certain you want to delete the previous file and have no need for it whatsoever.
Step 1: Close TurboTax
Ensure your TurboTax Desktop software is completely closed before attempting to delete the file.
Step 2: Locate Your Tax File
TurboTax typically saves tax files in your Documents folder, within a subfolder usually named "TurboTax" (e.g.,
Documents\TurboTax).File Name Format: Your tax files will have an extension like
.tax202X(e.g.,2024 Doe J Form 1040 Individual Tax Return.tax2024). The name will often include your name and the tax year.Search Your Computer: If you can't find it, use your computer's search function and look for files with the
.tax202Xextension for the relevant tax year.
Step 3: Delete the File
Select the Incorrect File: Once you've located the specific tax file you wish to delete, select it.
Right-Click and Delete: Right-click on the file and choose "Delete."
Confirm Deletion: Your operating system will likely ask for confirmation. Confirm the deletion.
Step 4: Re-open TurboTax and Start Fresh
Now, open your TurboTax Desktop software. It should open to the initial welcome screen, allowing you to start a brand new return from scratch.
Important Tips for a Smooth Start Over:
Gather All Documents: Before you start over, make sure you have all your essential tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, 1098s, receipts for deductions, etc.) organized and readily available. This will prevent you from needing to reset again due to missing information.
Take Your Time: Don't rush through the process. A careful and deliberate approach will minimize errors.
Double-Check Entries: As you re-enter your information, double-check every single entry for accuracy. A small typo can have a big impact.
Save Frequently: Especially with the desktop version, save your work regularly as you progress through your new return.
Consider Why You're Starting Over: If you're constantly finding yourself needing to reset, it might be beneficial to review your understanding of tax concepts or seek professional advice if your situation is complex.
Starting over on your TurboTax return can feel like a setback, but it's a valuable tool to ensure your tax filing is accurate and stress-free. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to a successfully completed tax return!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to know if I can still clear and start over in TurboTax Online?
You can generally clear and start over in TurboTax Online as long as you haven't submitted payment, deducted the TurboTax fee from your refund, or registered your product. If you've done any of these, the "Clear & Start Over" option may not be available, and you'll need to manually edit.
How to find the "Tax Tools" option in TurboTax Online?
Once you're logged into your TurboTax Online return, look for a menu on the left-hand side of the screen. "Tax Tools" is usually located towards the bottom of this menu. You may need to scroll down to see it.
How to delete a previously saved tax return file on my computer if I use TurboTax Desktop?
Close your TurboTax Desktop software. Go to your computer's "Documents" folder, then open the "TurboTax" subfolder. Locate the .tax202X file for the return you want to delete, right-click on it, and select "Delete."
How to start a completely new tax return in TurboTax Desktop without deleting old files?
Open your TurboTax Desktop software. Go to the "File" menu at the top left of the screen and select "New Tax Return." This will open a blank return, allowing you to start fresh while keeping your old files (though it's good practice to rename them to avoid confusion).
How to deal with accidentally deleting my TurboTax file on desktop?
If you've accidentally deleted your .tax202X file, check your computer's Recycle Bin (Windows) or Trash (Mac). You might be able to restore it from there. If not, and you haven't filed, you'll need to re-enter all your information.
How to know if my TurboTax return has been paid for or filed?
You can check your TurboTax account's "Order History" or "My Tax Timeline" to see if a payment has been processed or if the return has been e-filed. If it shows as "Accepted" by the IRS/state, it's filed.
How to make changes to my TurboTax return if I've already filed it?
If you've already filed your tax return, you cannot simply start over. You will need to amend your return. TurboTax provides guidance on how to file an amended return (Form 1040-X) within the program after your original return has been processed.
How to avoid needing to start over in the future?
Gather all your tax documents before you start.
Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed.
Use the "Save" feature frequently, especially with the desktop version.
Review sections carefully before moving on.
How to get help from TurboTax support if I'm stuck?
TurboTax offers various support options, including their online community forums, FAQs, and direct customer support. Look for "Help" or "Support" links within your TurboTax product or on their website (
How to downgrade my TurboTax Online product if I started with a higher version by mistake?
If you haven't paid or registered, sometimes using the "Clear & Start Over" feature will allow you to select a different product level from the beginning. Otherwise, you might need to contact TurboTax customer support for assistance with downgrading your product.
