I'm not sure how the ROTH IRA works in regards to tax return. I put money into every pay check. Is this not the same thing?

[macuser_22 · Accepted solution]

If your employer takes the money out of your paycheck and it is reported in box 12 on your W-2, then it is probably a designated Roth (401(K) Roth) and not a Roth IRA.   You only report that on your W-2, not in the IRA contribution section.

[AndreaG]

Roth IRA contributions are NOT tax deductible. However, you may be eligible for the Retirement Savings Contribution Credit. There are additional requirements concerning your age, AGI, status as a student, and whether you are a dependent taxpayer. See Form 8880 https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8880.pdf for specific information about these additional requirements.