married seniors filing jointly, used turbo tax.com to file our taxes? we only earn social sec, pension and MRD from our pensions?

[jfellowsrealtor]

why did we get such a higher federal tax refund using 1040 SE?

[NCperson]

@jfellowsrealtor the forms should provide the same result.  Go back and be sure you data entered everything EXACTLY the same; I suspect you will find something that is different. 

[Vanessa A]

If you are both over 65, it is not about whether you used the 1040 or 1040 SR (I am assuming you mean SR not SE), it is the new senior deduction.  If you are both over 65 and married filing jointly you may have had a reduction of your income of up to $12,000.  

If eligible you will find this on Schedule 1-A Part V and line 13b of your form 1040. TurboTax will automatically calculate it based on your date of birth and your income.  There is not a special section or box to check.  Just enter your correct information and TurboTax will take it from there.  
 

For Tax Year 2025 through 2028, seniors may claim an additional deduction of $6,000 per taxpayer over 65.  This is NOT a refundable credit.  This is a deduction of your income. 

• If your income is above $75,000 ($150,000 if Married filing jointly) the bonus deduction decreases by $.06 for every dollar over the relevant amount. 
• This deduction is available whether you itemize or take the standard deduction.
• If your filing status is married filing separately you are not eligible for this deduction.

This bonus deduction is ONLY for those who were 65 or older as of December 31, 2025, it does not apply to those who are blind and under 65