How to Fix New Outlook Task Not Disappearing After Completion
Question details
Users are unable to permanently remove tasks in the new Outlook interface, as completed or deleted tasks continue to reappear in Microsoft To Do.
- Product
- Microsoft Outlook
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Managing and deleting tasks across the new Outlook interface and Microsoft To Do.
- Observed behavior
- A task marked as complete or deleted fails to disappear and keeps returning to the task list due to synchronization issues.
Ensure your computer has an active and stable internet connection, as changes to tasks require network access to synchronize correctly between the new Outlook and Microsoft To Do servers.
Permanently Delete the Task and Clear Deleted Items
Use a direct shortcut to permanently delete the task and clear your deleted items folder to force the synchronization.
Sometimes, simply marking a task as complete or pressing the standard delete key places it in a temporary state where it fails to sync properly with Microsoft To Do.
Open the new Outlook, select the stubborn task, hold down the 'Shift' key, and press 'Delete' to permanently delete it.
Navigate to the 'Deleted Items' folder of the account that owns the task, right-click the folder, and select 'Empty Folder'.
Leave the Outlook application open for a few minutes to allow the server time to synchronize the permanent deletion with Microsoft To Do.
Repair the Outlook Data File
Use the built-in Microsoft repair tool to fix underlying data file corruption that prevents tasks from syncing.
Check IMAP Account Association
Verify if the task belongs to a connected IMAP account that is failing to sync correctly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do deleted Outlook tasks keep reappearing in Microsoft To Do?
This issue typically occurs due to synchronization delays, a corrupted local Outlook data file, or conflicts with secondary connected IMAP accounts that fail to update their status on the main server.
Can I use the web version of Outlook to fix the task issue?
Yes. Logging into Outlook on the web (Outlook.com) and deleting or completing the task from the web interface forces a direct server-side update, which often resolves local client syncing issues.
What should I do if the ScanPST tool doesn't resolve my sync issue?
If repairing the data file doesn't work and you are using a work or school account, the issue might be on the server backend. You will need to ask your IT administrator to contact Microsoft 365 online support for advanced troubleshooting.
