Does contributing to an IRA take away the money I get from my refund? I don't understand how the IRA works.

[Marketstar · Accepted solution]

No, you may be able to increase your refund (or decrease taxes owed) by purchasing a Traditional IRA, and you have until April 18, 2017 to do so.

Although the Roth IRA is not tax deductible as is the Traditional IRA, both may qualify you for the Saver's Credit, which may also increase your refund.

See What Is the Saver's Credit ?

For 2016, you can contribute up to $5,500 of your earned income ($6,500 if over 50)

You can determine the effect of adding an IRA contribution by entering it into TurboTax and viewing the difference (if any) on the refund meter .

 To report a Roth or Traditional IRA in TurboTax

• Type in ira contributions in the search box, top right of your screen, then click the magnifying glass

• Click the jump to ira contributions link in the search results.

• Follow the onscreen instructions to enter