Yes, that is correct. You can only transfer a 2015 data file into a new blank 2016 return.
You said "TurboTax Deluxe disc" but didn't say what year(s) that referred to. Next to your forum display name above it is showing an icon for "Online Deluxe."
Are you using Online TurboTax for your 2016 return, but used the 2015 CD version last year? You would indeed have to clear the 2016 online return as part of the process to upload the 2015 data file.
