Can I Delete My Tax Return and Start Again on H&R Block?

Mistakes on a tax return can be stressful, especially when using online tax software like H&R Block. Whether it’s incorrect income details or the wrong filing status, sometimes it’s easier to start over rather than fix individual errors.

Understanding how to delete or amend a return helps prevent complications with the IRS or state tax agencies.

Deleting an Unsubmitted Return

If you haven’t submitted your return through H&R Block, you can erase it and start fresh. This is useful if you’ve selected the wrong tax form or made miscalculations that are easier to fix by starting over.

H&R Block’s online software allows users to delete their return as long as it hasn’t been transmitted to the IRS or state tax agency. To do this, log into your account, navigate to tax return management, and select the option to remove your progress. Once deleted, all data is erased, allowing you to restart the filing process.

Amending a Filed Return

If you’ve already submitted your return, changes require filing an amended return using Form 1040-X. This form corrects errors such as unreported income, missed deductions, or an incorrect filing status. Unlike an unsubmitted return, which can be deleted, an amended return must be processed separately.

The IRS allows amendments for up to three years from the original filing deadline or two years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. If the correction results in additional tax owed, paying promptly reduces interest and penalties. If it leads to a refund, the IRS typically processes it within 16 weeks.

H&R Block provides tools for amending returns, but the process isn’t always electronic. The IRS does not accept e-filed amendments in all cases, meaning some taxpayers must print and mail Form 1040-X. If changes affect state taxes, those must be amended separately based on state-specific rules.

Potential Implications for Federal and State Filings

Changes to a federal tax return can impact state taxes. If an amended federal return alters taxable income, most states require a corresponding amendment. Some adjust automatically based on IRS changes, while others require taxpayers to notify them within a set timeframe.

Modifying a return can also affect tax credits and deductions tied to income thresholds. Lowering adjusted gross income (AGI) may increase eligibility for credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Premium Tax Credit for health insurance subsidies. Conversely, an increase in reported income could reduce or eliminate benefits, potentially resulting in a balance due.

If an amendment results in additional tax owed, the IRS and many states charge interest from the original due date until payment is received. The IRS interest rate, updated quarterly, is currently 8% for underpayments as of 2024. Some states also impose late payment penalties based on the amount owed and duration of nonpayment.

Confirming the Final Return Status

Verifying whether a tax return has been processed isn’t always as simple as receiving a confirmation email. The IRS and state tax agencies provide ways to check if a return has been accepted, rejected, or is under review.

Taxpayers who e-file through H&R Block can check their return status within the platform, which typically updates within 24 to 48 hours. If a return is rejected, the software provides details on the reason, such as a mismatched Social Security number or an issue with prior-year AGI verification.

For paper-filed returns, processing takes longer. The IRS advises waiting at least four weeks before checking the status, as manual processing delays can extend beyond typical timelines, especially during peak filing season. The “Where’s My Refund?” tool on the IRS website allows taxpayers to track their return using their Social Security number, filing status, and exact refund amount. State tax agencies often have similar tracking systems, though processing times vary.