Single parent, what factors into such a high federal return (doesn't seem right)?

Melinda-56 — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:38:39 GMT

This is my first time filing as a single parent. Head of household, mortgage, job, two children. Nothing fancy. I don't understand why my Federal tax return is so high. What factors into this? I feel like this can't be right but my tax information is pretty straightforward.

Re: Single parent, what factors into such a high federal return (doesn't seem right)?

JohnB5677 — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 18:26:15 GMT

If you have your year-to-year comparison (you can get this in the Online version if you pay for TurboTax, but don't file) it will show you what areas changed.

There are three factors that will determine the size of your refund (or what you owe).

The total amount of income that you have.
The amount you had withheld from your wages.
Whether you qualify for certain tax credits.

Your income determines the amount of tax you owe. This not only includes your wages, but also any other type of income you may have had. A small job that issued a 1099 MISC or NEC can result in significant taxes. Based on criteria established by the IRS there are tables that determine the amount of tax that you owe. Double-check your income entries and make sure they are correct.

The amount you had withheld generally comes from your W-2 income; however, taxes can be withheld from other forms of income. If the taxes withheld are more than what you owe you will get a refund. If not, you will owe money. Again, double-check your entries and be sure they are correct.

You can subtract Tax Credits from the amount of tax you owe. Here are some common Credits:

If you look at your tax return FORM 1040 you can check these entries.

Line 19 Child Tax Credit
Line 27 Earned Income Credit
Line 28 Additional Tax Child Tax Credit
Line 29 American Opportunity Credit (For College)
Line 30 Recovery Rebate Credit
You also may have had more taxes withheld on your income.

Compare your tax credits to what you had last year. This is the most likely place for a large amount to be.

topic Single parent, what factors into such a high federal return (doesn't seem right)? in Get your taxes done using TurboTax

Single parent, what factors into such a high federal return (doesn't seem right)?

Re: Single parent, what factors into such a high federal return (doesn't seem right)?