Error 257 - Creating a New Tax Return While Logged in as Admin

This error occurs in the Desktop software when you try to start a new return while signed in as the Admin user. The Admin account is typically used for managing the software, not for creating tax returns, so it may not have the permissions needed to begin a new return. The easiest way to resolve this issue is to switch to a user account that has permission to create returns, such as Guest or another configured user.

If the Guest or another user has not yet been created, you may do so by following the below steps:

1. Log in to the Desktop software as Admin
2. Go to Tools -> Utilities/Setup Assistant at the top of the screen
3. In the Utilities window, go to Setup -> Setup Assistant
4. In the Setup Assistant window, find Groups & Users to the left
5. Highlight Guest and click the View/Edit button
6. Enter a Password for the Guest
7. Click OK
8. Click Save & Close

Now you may log in as Guest and prepare a new tax return.