I only earned $18,131.02 gross adjusted taxable income. I Paid $1,996.72 Federal income tax. how Can I receive the most back on my return?

[Opus 17]

There are no tricks.  You simply file an accurate tax return and report your income and deductions.  Your tax is calculated, you get credit for what was withheld, and you either get a refund or owe more tax, depending on how the balance works out.

If you are a single adult, all your income was from a W-2 job, and you don't have any children or other special tax credits, I would expect you to pay $550 in income tax, and therefore get about a $1400 refund.  If you are under age 24, part of your income comes from investments, or you received unemployment compensation, or you have other special circumstances, your tax return will come out differently. 

[SweetieJean]

and State taxes may be different.