CCH Axcess: Preventing Returns from Rolling Forward
CCH Axcess, a powerful tax software, offers streamlined workflows, but sometimes returns unexpectedly roll forward, causing frustration and potential errors. This guide will help you understand why this happens and provide practical solutions to prevent returns from rolling forward in CCH Axcess.
Understanding Return Rollforward in CCH Axcess
The "rollforward" feature in CCH Axcess automatically pulls data from a previous year's return to pre-populate the current year's return. While convenient for many, it can be problematic if:
- Incorrect data: The previous year's return contains errors that are now carried over.
- Client changes: Significant changes in the client's circumstances (e.g., marriage, business restructuring) render the rolled-forward data inaccurate.
- Accidental activation: The rollforward might be unintentionally triggered, overriding manual entries.
Key Strategies to Prevent Unwanted Rollforwards
Here are several effective strategies to minimize or completely avoid unwanted rollforwards in your CCH Axcess workflow:
1. Careful Data Review Before Opening a Return
Always thoroughly review the previous year's return for accuracy before starting a new return. Identify any potential issues and make necessary corrections before initiating the rollforward process. This proactive approach prevents errors from propagating to the current year.
2. Selective Rollforward: Choose Your Data Wisely
CCH Axcess often allows selective rollforward. Instead of rolling forward everything, carefully select only the data points that are still relevant and accurate. This level of control minimizes the risk of importing outdated or erroneous information.
3. Manual Data Entry for Significant Changes
For clients experiencing significant changes (e.g., new dependents, major business transitions), avoid the automatic rollforward altogether. Manually enter the data for the current year to ensure accuracy and prevent the propagation of obsolete information.
4. Regular Data Backups: A Safety Net
Regularly backing up your CCH Axcess data is crucial. If a rollforward does cause issues, you'll have a recent backup to revert to, minimizing data loss and the need for extensive recovery efforts.
5. Understanding CCH Axcess Settings
Familiarize yourself with the CCH Axcess settings related to rollforward. Some settings may control the default behavior or allow you to disable the automatic rollforward completely. Consulting CCH Axcess documentation or support can clarify these settings and their impact.
6. Leverage CCH Axcess's Built-in Validation Tools
Utilize CCH Axcess's built-in validation tools to identify potential errors and inconsistencies before finalizing the return. This can catch discrepancies introduced by a rollforward or other data entry mistakes.
7. Thorough Client Communication
Maintain open communication with your clients to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding their circumstances. Any discrepancies between your records and the client's situation should be addressed before initiating a rollforward.
Proactive Prevention is Key
Preventing returns from rolling forward unexpectedly in CCH Axcess requires a proactive approach. By combining careful data review, selective rollforward practices, and leveraging the software's features, you can significantly reduce the risk of errors and ensure the accuracy of your tax returns. Remember, accuracy is paramount, and taking preventative measures is far more efficient than correcting errors later.
