Navigating tax season can be complex, and while TurboTax Full Service offers the convenience of having an expert handle your taxes, sometimes circumstances change, and you might find yourself needing to cancel. Perhaps your tax situation simplified, you decided to go with a local accountant, or you simply prefer to do it yourself this year. Whatever the reason, canceling TurboTax Full Service requires a specific approach, and understanding the steps and potential implications is crucial.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of canceling TurboTax Full Service, addressing common questions, and helping you make an informed decision.
How to Cancel TurboTax Full Service: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before diving into the specifics, it's important to understand that the ease of cancellation and whether you're eligible for a refund largely depend on when you decide to cancel in relation to your tax filing progress.
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Step 1: Assess Your Current Situation – Have You Filed Yet?
This is the most critical question. Your ability to cancel and the method for doing so will differ significantly based on whether your tax return has been filed with the IRS or state authorities.
Sub-heading: Scenario A: You Have Not Filed Your Tax Return Yet
If your tax return has not been submitted, you have more flexibility. This is the ideal scenario for a smooth cancellation.
Before your expert starts working: If you've just signed up and your assigned expert hasn't begun processing your information or contacted you for a "Welcome Call," cancellation is generally straightforward.
During the preparation phase (but before filing): Even if your expert has started, as long as the return hasn't been e-filed or printed for mail, you likely have options to switch or cancel.
Sub-heading: Scenario B: You Have Filed Your Tax Return
Once your return has been electronically filed (e-filed) or printed and mailed, the situation becomes more complicated. You cannot "unfile" a return. At this point, your primary concern will shift from cancellation to potential refunds for the service, or addressing any issues that might necessitate an amendment.
Return is "Pending": If you e-filed and the return is in "pending" status, it means the IRS or state hasn't officially accepted it yet. In some rare cases, you might be able to intercept it, but generally, once submitted, it's considered filed.
Return is "Accepted": If your return has been accepted, it means it's officially on record with the tax authorities.
Step 2: Access Your TurboTax Account
No matter your situation, the first practical step is to log into your TurboTax account. This is where you'll manage your service, communicate with your expert (if assigned), and potentially find cancellation options.
Go to the official TurboTax website: turbotax.intuit.com.
Click on "Sign In" and enter your Intuit Account credentials (username and password).
If you're having trouble signing in, use the "Forgot username or password?" option.
Step 3: Explore Cancellation Options Within Your Account (If Not Yet Filed)
If you have not filed your tax return, here's where you'll look for direct cancellation avenues.
Sub-heading: Option 3.1: "Leave Full Service" or "Clear and Start Over"
TurboTax provides specific options to change your service level or start fresh if you haven't committed to a paid service or filed.
Look for a "Leave Full Service" or "Downgrade" Option: Within your TurboTax account, especially in the "Help Panel" on the left side of the screen, you might find a link that says "Leave Full Service" or something similar. Click on it and follow the on-screen instructions. This is the most direct way to cancel the Full Service aspect.
"Clear & Start Over" (for TurboTax Online): If you've just started your return with Full Service but haven't made any payments or registered the product, you might be able to simply "Clear & Start Over."
While in your return, look for "Tax Tools" in the left-hand menu.
Select "Clear & Start Over."
Confirm your decision.
Be aware: This will erase all the data you've entered and any work done by your expert up to that point. You would then be able to select a different TurboTax product (like Deluxe, Premier, or even Free Edition) to continue your taxes yourself.
Sub-heading: Option 3.2: Contact Your TurboTax Expert Directly
If you've been assigned a tax expert, and the "Leave Full Service" option isn't readily available or clear, reaching out to them is your next best bet.
Message your expert: Within your TurboTax account, you should have a way to message your assigned expert. Clearly state your intention to cancel Full Service and the reason why. Ask for guidance on the cancellation process.
Call your expert: If a direct phone number for your expert is provided within the platform, use it. A direct conversation can often expedite the process and clarify any nuances.
Sub-heading: Option 3.3: Contact TurboTax Customer Support
If you're unable to find the cancellation option or reach your expert, or if you simply prefer speaking to a general support representative, contact TurboTax customer support.
Go to the TurboTax support website (ttlc.intuit.com).
Look for options like "Contact Us," "Support," or "Help."
You might need to navigate through some FAQs first before finding a way to connect with a live agent via chat or phone. Clearly explain that you wish to cancel your TurboTax Full Service.
Step 4: Understand Refund Policies and Deadlines
This is where things can get a bit tricky. TurboTax's refund policy for Full Service is tied to the stage of your tax preparation.
Sub-heading: Key Considerations for Refunds
Unfiled Returns: If you cancel before your expert has completed and filed your return, you are generally eligible for a refund of the Full Service fees. The exact amount might depend on how much work the expert has already performed.
Filed Returns: If your return has already been filed (e-filed or mailed), you typically will not receive a refund for the Full Service fee, as the service has been rendered. The "Full Service Guarantee" primarily focuses on accuracy and maximum refund once the return is filed, not on cancellation after completion.
TurboTax Advantage Subscription: If your Full Service was part of a larger TurboTax Advantage subscription (which automatically renews for desktop products), you'll need to specifically cancel that subscription. You can often do this by signing into your TurboTax Advantage account and removing all listed products. If you missed the cancellation deadline for the current year's product, you might need to wait to receive the download/CD and then submit an online refund request within 60 days of receipt.
Satisfaction Guarantee: TurboTax Online generally has a "Satisfaction Guaranteed" policy, meaning you can use the product without charge up to the point you decide to print or electronically file your return. Printing or filing signifies your satisfaction and requires payment. This applies more to the self-service online products, but the principle can sometimes be relevant for Full Service if no significant work has been done yet.
Sub-heading: Document Everything
Keep Records: When you initiate a cancellation, document everything. Note the date, time, the name of the representative you spoke with (if by phone), and any reference numbers provided. If you communicate via messaging within the platform, save screenshots or copies of the conversation.
Confirmation: Request an email or written confirmation of your cancellation.
Step 5: Verify the Cancellation and Monitor Your Account
After taking the steps to cancel, it's essential to follow up and ensure the cancellation has been processed correctly.
Check Your TurboTax Account: Log back into your account after a few days to see if your service level has changed or if the Full Service option is no longer active.
Review Credit Card Statements: If you were charged, monitor your credit card statements for any pending refunds.
Email Notifications: Keep an eye on your email for any cancellation confirmations or further instructions from TurboTax.
10 Related FAQ Questions (Starting with 'How to')
Here are some quick answers to common questions related to canceling TurboTax Full Service:
How to know if my TurboTax Full Service tax return has been filed?
You can check the status of your return by logging into your TurboTax account. It will typically show "Accepted," "Rejected," or "Pending" if it has been submitted, or "Not Started" or "In Progress" if it hasn't.
How to get a refund for TurboTax Full Service if I haven't filed?
If your expert hasn't completed and filed your return, you should be eligible for a refund. Contact your expert directly or TurboTax customer support to initiate the cancellation and refund process.
How to switch from TurboTax Full Service to a DIY product?
If you haven't filed, look for options like "Leave Full Service" or "Clear & Start Over" within your TurboTax account. This will usually allow you to revert to a standard DIY product.
How to contact TurboTax customer support for cancellation?
Go to the TurboTax support website (ttlc.intuit.com) and look for "Contact Us" or "Support." You may need to answer a few questions or navigate FAQs before being offered chat or phone support options.
How to cancel TurboTax Advantage subscription (if linked to Full Service)?
Sign in to your TurboTax Advantage account, select "TurboTax Advantage" on the right side of the screen, and then "Remove product" under each listed product. Once all are removed, your subscription is canceled.
How to cancel TurboTax Full Service if my expert isn't responding?
If your assigned expert is unresponsive, escalate the issue by contacting general TurboTax customer support. Explain the situation and your desire to cancel.
How to tell if I'm still being charged for TurboTax Full Service?
Check your credit card or bank statements for recurring charges from Intuit or TurboTax. If you've canceled, monitor for any refunds.
How to cancel a pending e-filed tax return with TurboTax Full Service?
Generally, you cannot cancel or amend an e-filed return once it's in "pending" status. It's considered submitted. If rejected, you can make corrections and re-file. If accepted, any changes require filing an amended return.
How to get an amended return done if I canceled Full Service after filing?
If you've canceled Full Service after your return was filed and need to amend it, you'll likely need to either do it yourself using a TurboTax DIY product or hire a new tax professional. TurboTax's guarantees focus on the original filing.
How to avoid being charged for TurboTax Full Service next year?
Ensure you've fully canceled any associated subscriptions like TurboTax Advantage, which can automatically renew. Always review your account settings and billing preferences.
