Federal refund received but not full amount expected. How do I get an explanation?

[dalemunz]

Why did I not receive the full federal refund expected?

[VolvoGirl]

If the IRS adjusted your return they will mail you a letter.

A common reason is you claimed the Recovery Rebate Credit on line 30 or too much Child Tax Credit on line 28 but the  IRS had already sent it to you.

[fanfare]

The problems with IRS letters is they are confusing and only list possible reasons for an adjustment. not the actual reason for your situation.

to get the actual reason you must correspond with IRS in writing.

That would take a long time to process.