Why are my taxes the lowest when I contribute 6500 to my IRA & higher when I contribute either 4000 or 12500 I owe more taxes at either amount than the standard 6,500?

[fanfare · Accepted solution]

there are penalties for contributing more that $6500 and TurboTax adds that penalty to your tax return.

$6,500 ($5,500 if under age 50) is not a recommended amount. it is the maximum amount.