How To Restart Your Taxes on H&R Block: A Comprehensive Guide

Filing taxes can be daunting, and sometimes, you need to hit the reset button. Maybe you made a mistake early on, realized you needed additional information, or simply want to start fresh. Thankfully, H&R Block, a leading tax preparation software, offers ways to restart your tax return. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently navigate the software and accurately file your taxes.

Table of Contents

Understanding When to Restart Your Return

Before diving into the technical aspects, let’s clarify when restarting is the best course of action. It’s not always the most efficient choice. Consider these scenarios:

Significant Errors: If you’ve entered substantial incorrect information, such as your filing status, dependents, or income, restarting might be simpler than correcting each mistake individually.
Missing Documents: Realizing you’re missing crucial tax forms, like a W-2 or 1099, early in the process might warrant a restart once you have all the necessary documentation.
Software Glitches: While rare, software issues can sometimes corrupt your return. Restarting can be a troubleshooting method if you encounter persistent problems.
Change in Tax Situation: Major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child significantly impact your taxes. Restarting allows you to accurately reflect these changes from the beginning.
Simply Feeling Overwhelmed: Sometimes, the process becomes too confusing or stressful. Restarting with a clear head can improve your understanding and accuracy.

However, if you’ve only made a few minor errors, correcting them within the existing return is generally faster than starting over. H&R Block provides tools to edit previously entered information.

Restarting Your Return: Step-by-Step Instructions

The process for restarting your tax return on H&R Block depends on which version of the software you’re using: online, desktop, or mobile. Here’s a detailed breakdown for each:

Restarting on H&R Block Online

The online version is the most commonly used, offering accessibility and convenience. Here’s how to restart:

Sign In: Log into your H&R Block Online account using your username and password. If you’ve forgotten your credentials, use the “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” options to recover them. Ensure you’re logging into the correct account if you’ve used H&R Block in previous years.
Access Your Return: Once logged in, you should see a summary of your current tax return. Locate the return you want to restart.
“Clear & Start Over” Option: Look for a button or link labeled “Clear & Start Over,” “Restart Return,” or something similar. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the year’s software version. This option is usually found near the beginning of the return process or in the “My Account” section.
Confirmation: A pop-up window will appear asking you to confirm your decision to restart. This is an important step to prevent accidental data loss. Read the confirmation message carefully before proceeding. Understand that all previously entered information will be erased.
Begin Anew: After confirming, the software will reset your return, and you can begin entering your information from scratch.

Restarting on H&R Block Desktop Software

If you prefer the desktop version, the process is similar but slightly different:

Open the Software: Launch the H&R Block desktop software on your computer.
Open Your Return: Select the tax return file you wish to restart. This is usually a file with a “.HRB” extension.
Locate the “File” Menu: At the top of the software window, click on the “File” menu.
“Start Over/New Return” Option: Within the “File” menu, look for options such as “Start Over,” “New Return,” or “Clear Return.”
Confirmation: A confirmation window will appear, warning you that restarting will erase all existing data. Carefully review the warning message before confirming.
Start Fresh: Once you confirm, the software will clear your existing return, allowing you to start a new one.

Restarting on H&R Block Mobile App

For users who prefer the convenience of filing on their smartphones or tablets, here’s how to restart using the mobile app:

Open the App: Launch the H&R Block mobile app on your device.
Sign In: Log in using your H&R Block account credentials.
Access Your Return: Navigate to the tax return you want to restart.
Settings or Menu Icon: Look for a settings icon (usually a gear or three dots) or a menu button within the app.
“Restart Return” Option: Within the settings or menu, find the “Restart Return” option. The exact wording may vary.
Confirmation: A confirmation message will appear to ensure you want to erase your current progress. Read the message carefully.
Begin a New Return: After confirming, the app will clear your data, and you can start entering your information again.

Important Considerations Before Restarting

Restarting your tax return is a significant action that should be carefully considered. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind:

Data Loss: Restarting will erase all previously entered information. Ensure you have copies of any documents or data you’ve already input if you might need them later.
Alternative Solutions: Before restarting, explore whether correcting the existing return is a viable option. H&R Block offers tools to edit and update your information.
Time Commitment: Restarting means you’ll need to re-enter all your tax information, which can be time-consuming. Weigh the time investment against the potential benefits of starting over.
Backup: If possible, create a backup of your existing tax return before restarting. This allows you to revert to the previous version if needed.
Understanding Why: Understand why you need to restart. Are you missing key information? Did you make a fundamental mistake? Knowing the reason will help you avoid the same issue when you restart.
Customer Support: If you’re unsure whether to restart or how to do it, contact H&R Block’s customer support for guidance. They can provide personalized assistance based on your specific situation.

Tips for a Smooth Tax Filing Experience

To minimize the need to restart your tax return, consider these tips for a smoother filing experience:

Gather All Documents: Before you begin, gather all necessary tax documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, and receipts. Having everything organized will prevent interruptions and errors.
Double-Check Information: Carefully double-check all entered information for accuracy. Pay close attention to Social Security numbers, dates, and amounts.
Utilize H&R Block’s Resources: H&R Block offers various resources, including help articles, videos, and FAQs. Take advantage of these resources to understand the tax laws and the software’s features.
Take Breaks: Filing taxes can be mentally taxing. Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain focus.
Consider Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure about any aspect of tax filing, consider seeking professional assistance from a tax preparer. H&R Block offers options for professional tax preparation services.
Review Before Filing: Before submitting your return, thoroughly review all information for accuracy and completeness. Use H&R Block’s review tools to identify potential errors.
Understand Tax Laws: Familiarize yourself with basic tax laws and deductions. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and avoid mistakes.

Navigating Common H&R Block Issues

Even with careful preparation, you might encounter issues while using H&R Block. Here’s how to handle some common problems:

Software Errors: If you encounter software errors, try restarting the program or your computer. If the problem persists, contact H&R Block’s technical support.
Incorrect Calculations: If you suspect an incorrect calculation, review your entries and compare them to your tax documents. If you still can’t identify the error, seek professional assistance.
Missing Forms: If you realize you’re missing a tax form, contact the issuer (e.g., your employer or bank) to obtain a copy.
Password Problems: If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password” option to reset it. If you’re still having trouble, contact H&R Block’s customer support.
Technical Difficulties: For any technical difficulties, consult H&R Block’s help resources or contact their technical support team.

Understanding H&R Block’s Features

H&R Block offers a wide range of features to help you file your taxes accurately and efficiently. Understanding these features can significantly improve your experience:

Step-by-Step Guidance: The software provides step-by-step guidance, walking you through each section of the tax return.
Deduction Finder: The deduction finder helps you identify potential deductions and credits, maximizing your tax savings.
Accuracy Guarantee: H&R Block offers an accuracy guarantee, ensuring that your return is accurate and that you’ll receive the maximum refund you’re entitled to.
Audit Support: H&R Block provides audit support, assisting you if your return is audited by the IRS.
Import Features: The software allows you to import data from previous years and from other tax preparation software, saving you time and effort.
Real-Time Updates: H&R Block keeps its software up-to-date with the latest tax laws and regulations.
Mobile Accessibility: The mobile app allows you to file your taxes from anywhere, at any time.

Alternatives to Restarting Your Return

Sometimes, restarting isn’t necessary. Consider these alternatives:

Editing Existing Information: H&R Block allows you to easily edit previously entered information. Navigate back to the relevant section and make the necessary changes.
Adding New Information: You can add new information to your return at any time. Simply navigate to the appropriate section and enter the data.
Using “Help” Features: H&R Block’s “Help” features provide guidance and explanations for various tax topics. Use these resources to understand complex issues and make informed decisions.
Seeking Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure how to proceed, consider seeking professional assistance from a tax preparer.
Reviewing Each Section: Carefully review each section of your return to identify and correct any errors.

Final Thoughts

Restarting your tax return on H&R Block is a straightforward process, but it’s essential to understand the implications before taking this step. By carefully considering your options, gathering all necessary documents, and utilizing H&R Block’s resources, you can ensure a smooth and accurate tax filing experience. Remember to prioritize accuracy, take breaks when needed, and seek professional assistance if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process. Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. With the right preparation and understanding of the tools available, you can confidently navigate the process and file your taxes with ease.

What does “restarting my taxes” mean in the context of H&R Block software?

Restarting your taxes in H&R Block refers to the process of clearing all previously entered information and beginning your tax return from scratch. This is useful if you’ve made significant errors, want to explore different filing options, or simply prefer to start over with a clean slate. It essentially reverts the software back to its initial state, allowing you to re-enter your data and navigate the filing process anew.

Restarting your taxes does not delete your account or any information associated with your H&R Block profile. It only affects the specific tax return you are currently working on. Your previously filed returns, if any, will remain accessible in your account history. Remember to back up any critical data before restarting, although the software generally prompts you for confirmation to prevent accidental data loss.

Why would I need to restart my taxes using H&R Block?

There are several situations where restarting your taxes in H&R Block becomes necessary or beneficial. Perhaps you realized you initially chose the wrong filing status, made a substantial error in entering income or deductions, or encountered technical issues that corrupted your data. In these cases, attempting to correct the existing return can be more time-consuming and confusing than simply starting over.

Furthermore, if you are exploring different tax scenarios or want to compare the outcomes of various filing options, restarting allows you to easily experiment without being constrained by your previous entries. It provides a fresh start, ensuring that you are making decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information, ultimately leading to a more accurate and potentially more advantageous tax filing.

How do I actually restart my taxes in H&R Block?

The process for restarting your taxes in H&R Block typically involves navigating to the settings or preferences menu within the software. Look for options like “Clear Return,” “Start Over,” or something similar. The specific wording and location may vary slightly depending on the version of H&R Block you are using (desktop, online, or mobile app).

Once you locate the appropriate option, follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your decision. The software will usually ask for verification to prevent accidental restarts, emphasizing that all entered information will be deleted. After confirmation, the tax return will be reset, and you can begin entering your data again from the beginning.

Will restarting delete my H&R Block account or past tax returns?

No, restarting your taxes only affects the specific tax return you are currently working on. It does not delete your H&R Block account or any past tax returns you have filed through the platform. Your account information, including your name, address, and payment details, remains intact.

Previously filed returns remain accessible within your account history, allowing you to view, download, or print them as needed. Restarting simply provides a clean slate for the current tax year, allowing you to begin the process again without affecting your existing account information or historical data.

What should I do before restarting my tax return?

Before you restart your tax return in H&R Block, it is crucial to back up any critical information you have already entered. While the software typically provides warnings before deleting data, it’s always prudent to have a separate record of your entries, especially if you’ve spent significant time inputting information.

Consider taking screenshots of important screens, saving a PDF of your partially completed return (if possible), or manually noting down key figures such as income, deductions, and credits. This ensures that you don’t lose any valuable information and can easily re-enter it after restarting the process.

Are there any alternatives to restarting my taxes on H&R Block?

Before resorting to restarting, explore alternative solutions within H&R Block’s software. Often, you can correct errors or make adjustments without completely wiping your progress. Utilize the software’s navigation tools to revisit specific sections where mistakes occurred and directly modify the entries.

Consider using the help features and support resources offered by H&R Block, such as the knowledge base, FAQs, or live chat support. These resources can often guide you through resolving specific issues or correcting errors without requiring a full restart. A targeted approach can save time and effort compared to starting over.

What happens if I accidentally restart my taxes on H&R Block?

If you accidentally restart your taxes on H&R Block, unfortunately, any previously entered information will be lost. The software typically prompts you to confirm your decision before proceeding with the restart, but if you clicked through the prompts unintentionally, you will need to re-enter your tax data.

In this situation, your best course of action is to refer to any backup copies or records you may have created before restarting (as recommended earlier). Use these resources to re-enter your information as accurately as possible. If you didn’t create a backup, you’ll need to gather your tax documents again and start from the beginning, paying close attention to each step to avoid future errors.