Tax season can be stressful, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, we need to hit the reset button. Perhaps you made a mistake entering information, realized you were using the wrong filing status, or simply want to start with a clean slate. Fortunately, H&R Block, a leading tax preparation software, provides options to start over and begin your tax return anew. This guide will walk you through the various methods you can use to restart your tax return on H&R Block’s online platform, desktop software, and even with the assistance of their tax professionals. Understanding these methods will empower you to confidently navigate the tax preparation process and ensure accuracy in your filing.
Understanding Your Options for Restarting Your Tax Return
Before we dive into the specific steps, it’s crucial to understand the different scenarios that might necessitate restarting your tax return and the options available to you in each case. Are you simply in the middle of working on your return, or have you already filed it? Your choice of method depends on the answer.
Starting Over Before Filing
If you’re still actively working on your return and haven’t yet submitted it to the IRS, restarting is generally straightforward. H&R Block provides several ways to clear your data and begin again. This allows you to correct errors early and avoid potential issues later on.
Starting Over After Filing: Amended Returns
If you’ve already filed your tax return with the IRS and subsequently discover an error or omission, you’ll need to amend your return. This involves filing Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. H&R Block provides tools and guidance to help you through this process.
Restarting Your Tax Return on H&R Block Online
The online version of H&R Block is popular for its accessibility and user-friendly interface. Here’s how to start over when using their online platform.
Clearing Your Return in the Current Session
If you’re currently logged in and working on your return, the simplest method is often to clear the existing data within your session. This option is typically available if you haven’t yet completed the filing process.
To do this, look for options like “Clear Return,” “Start Over,” or similar wording within the main menu or settings. The exact location may vary slightly depending on the specific version of H&R Block you are using.
Once you select the appropriate option, you’ll likely be prompted to confirm your decision. Be sure to read the warning carefully, as this action will permanently erase all the information you’ve entered so far.
After confirming, the software will reset to the initial screen, allowing you to begin entering your information from scratch.
Deleting Your Return from Your Account
If you’ve saved your return and want to remove it completely from your H&R Block account, you may be able to delete it. The availability of this option depends on your subscription level and whether you’ve already filed.
Navigate to your account dashboard or return history. Locate the return you want to delete. Look for a “Delete” or “Remove” option associated with that return. Confirm the deletion. This will permanently remove the return from your account.
Important note: Deleted returns are usually unrecoverable. Ensure you have a backup if necessary.
Starting a New Return from Scratch
Another option is to simply begin a completely new tax return within your account. This might be preferable if you want to keep your existing return for reference but start fresh.
Look for a “Start New Return” or similar option within your account dashboard. This will create a new, blank tax return that you can begin filling out.
You can then switch between your different returns as needed.
Restarting Your Tax Return on H&R Block Desktop Software
If you’re using the desktop version of H&R Block, the process for restarting your tax return is slightly different. The steps depend on whether you want to clear the current return or start a new one.
Clearing the Current Return in the Desktop Software
Similar to the online version, the desktop software usually provides an option to clear the data within the currently opened return.
Within the software’s menu, look for options like “File,” “New,” or “Reset.” There might be a specific option to “Clear This Return.”
Selecting this option will typically prompt you to confirm that you want to erase all entered data. Again, exercise caution, as this action is usually irreversible.
After confirming, the software will reset the return to its initial state, ready for you to begin entering information anew.
Starting a New Return in the Desktop Software
To start a completely new tax return without affecting your current one, follow these steps:
Go to “File” in the main menu. Select “New Tax Return.” This will create a new, blank tax return file. You can then save it with a new name and begin working on it.
This approach allows you to keep your existing return for reference while working on a fresh copy.
Managing Multiple Tax Returns in the Desktop Software
The desktop version allows you to save and manage multiple tax return files. To switch between returns:
Go to “File” in the main menu. Select “Open Tax Return.” Choose the return you want to work on from the list of saved files. This allows you to easily access and edit different tax returns as needed.
Amending Your Tax Return After Filing
If you’ve already filed your tax return and need to make corrections, you’ll need to file an amended return using Form 1040-X. H&R Block can assist you with this process.
Using H&R Block to Amend Your Return
H&R Block typically provides a guided process for creating and filing Form 1040-X.
Log in to your H&R Block account or open the desktop software. Locate your previously filed tax return. Look for an option to “Amend Return” or “File an Amended Return.”
The software will guide you through the process of making the necessary corrections and generating Form 1040-X.
Key Considerations When Amending Your Return
When amending your tax return, keep the following points in mind:
File Form 1040-X electronically or by mail. The IRS generally recommends filing electronically for faster processing.
Include all supporting documentation. Any changes you make should be supported by relevant documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, or other forms.
Explain the reasons for the amendment. Form 1040-X includes a section where you must explain the specific changes you are making and the reasons for them.
Be patient. Amended returns typically take longer to process than original returns. You can track the status of your amended return on the IRS website.
Reasons for Amending Your Return
Common reasons for amending a tax return include:
- Incorrectly reported income
- Missed deductions or credits
- Incorrect filing status
- Errors in Social Security numbers or other personal information.
Seeking Professional Help from H&R Block
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to restart your tax return, consider seeking professional help from H&R Block.
In-Person Tax Preparation
H&R Block has numerous offices where you can meet with a tax professional in person. They can review your situation, help you correct any errors, and ensure that you’re taking advantage of all eligible deductions and credits.
Virtual Tax Preparation
H&R Block also offers virtual tax preparation services, allowing you to work with a tax professional remotely. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to avoid in-person meetings.
Benefits of Professional Assistance
Some of the benefits of seeking professional help include:
- Expert guidance from experienced tax professionals
- Increased accuracy and reduced risk of errors
- Identification of potential deductions and credits you might have missed
- Peace of mind knowing that your taxes are being handled correctly
Tips for Avoiding the Need to Restart Your Tax Return
While it’s good to know how to restart your tax return, it’s even better to avoid the need in the first place. Here are some tips to help you minimize errors and streamline the tax preparation process:
Gather All Necessary Documents Before You Begin
Before you start working on your tax return, gather all the necessary documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, receipts, and other relevant forms. Having everything organized will help you avoid mistakes and ensure that you don’t miss any important information.
Double-Check Your Entries
Take your time and carefully double-check all the information you enter. Pay particular attention to Social Security numbers, dates, and amounts. Even small errors can cause delays or problems with your tax return.
Utilize H&R Block’s Built-In Error Checks
H&R Block’s software includes built-in error checks that can help you identify potential mistakes. Pay attention to any warnings or alerts that the software provides and correct them before filing your return.
Consider Using a Tax Checklist
A tax checklist can help you ensure that you’re not missing any important information or deductions. You can find tax checklists online or create your own based on your individual circumstances.
Don’t Rush the Process
Avoid rushing through the tax preparation process. Take your time, read the instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re unsure about something.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Tax Preparation
Starting over on H&R Block, whether online or through their desktop software, is a manageable process when you understand the available options. From clearing your current session to amending a filed return, H&R Block provides tools and resources to help you navigate the complexities of tax preparation. Remember to always double-check your entries and utilize the software’s built-in error checks. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from H&R Block’s tax experts. By following these guidelines, you can confidently prepare and file your taxes, ensuring accuracy and peace of mind.
What are the primary reasons I might need to restart my tax return on H&R Block?
There are several reasons why you might need to start over on H&R Block. Perhaps you made significant errors in your initial entries, such as incorrectly reporting income, deductions, or credits. Maybe your tax situation has changed drastically since you began, like getting married, having a child, or starting a new business, requiring you to revise information substantially.
Another common reason is realizing you’re missing crucial documents like W-2s, 1099s, or receipts. Instead of trying to piece together the missing information, restarting allows you to begin afresh with all necessary documents at hand, ensuring accuracy and potentially maximizing your refund or minimizing your tax liability. Starting over can also be simpler if you’re unfamiliar with navigating H&R Block’s interface to correct numerous errors.
How can I actually restart my tax return within the H&R Block online platform?
The process of restarting your tax return on H&R Block depends slightly on whether you’ve already paid for the service or are still in the free version. If you haven’t paid, typically, you can simply delete the return and start a new one. Look for options like “Delete Return,” “Start Over,” or similar functionalities in the account overview or settings area of your dashboard.
If you’ve already paid, deleting the return might not be immediately possible. In such cases, contact H&R Block’s customer support directly through their online chat, phone, or email. Explain that you need to restart your return due to significant errors and request assistance in deleting the current one or resetting it to a blank slate. Be prepared to provide account information for verification.
What happens to the information I previously entered when I restart my tax return on H&R Block?
When you restart your tax return on H&R Block, all the information you previously entered is typically erased. This is because the platform effectively deletes the existing return and initiates a new one, starting you from scratch. Think of it as deleting a document on your computer and creating a new one.
Therefore, before restarting, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve saved or documented any information you might need. This is especially important if you’ve already completed sections like personal information or specific deductions and credits. If you’re unsure about deleting everything, consider taking screenshots or writing down key details to avoid re-entering them manually.
Will restarting my tax return on H&R Block affect my refund amount or tax liability?
Restarting your tax return in itself doesn’t directly affect your potential refund or tax liability. The outcome depends entirely on the accuracy and completeness of the information you enter in the new return. If you correct errors and provide all necessary details, it might result in a different refund amount or tax liability compared to the original, flawed return.
However, if you simply re-enter the same incorrect information, restarting will have no impact. Therefore, it’s essential to approach the restarted return with diligence, using all available documents and resources to ensure accuracy. The goal is to create a tax return that reflects your true tax situation, leading to an accurate refund or tax liability.
If I already paid for H&R Block, will I have to pay again if I restart my tax return?
Generally, you should not have to pay again if you’ve already paid for H&R Block and need to restart your tax return. Payment is usually tied to the service and not a specific tax return instance. The fee covers the use of the software and its features for preparing your tax return, regardless of how many times you restart.
However, it’s essential to confirm this with H&R Block’s customer support, especially if you’re switching to a different, more expensive version of the software during the process. They can clarify your specific situation and ensure that you’re not inadvertently charged again. Keeping your payment confirmation handy can also assist with this clarification.
How can I avoid needing to restart my tax return on H&R Block in the future?
To minimize the need to restart your tax return in the future, preparation is key. Before even logging into H&R Block, gather all necessary tax documents, such as W-2s, 1099s, and receipts for deductions. Organize them logically and ensure you understand the information they contain.
Take your time while entering information and double-check each entry for accuracy before moving on. Utilize H&R Block’s built-in tools and resources, such as help tips and explanations, to understand each section thoroughly. Consider reviewing a draft of your return before submitting it to identify and correct any potential errors, potentially saving time and frustration later.
What are the potential drawbacks of restarting my tax return on H&R Block?
One potential drawback of restarting your tax return is the loss of time and effort spent on the initial attempt. You will have to re-enter all the information from scratch, which can be tedious and time-consuming, especially if you had already completed a significant portion of the return. It’s important to weigh the time investment against the potential benefits of correcting errors.
Another potential drawback is the risk of forgetting or overlooking information that was included in the original return. Even with meticulous record-keeping, it’s possible to miss a detail or inadvertently misremember a specific entry. This can lead to inaccuracies in the new return, negating the benefits of restarting in the first place. Therefore, thoroughness and careful documentation are essential.