My state and federal refund estimates are dramatically different. Is this an issue?

[bharveytdc]

I'm filling out my state and federal returns online, and the running estimates for my refunds are grossly varied. I owe the fed about $200, but am seemingly eligible for $1200 refunded from the District of Columbia, where I live and work. This of course raises some red flags, so I'm curious if this is a cause for concern, or if the tax laws can possible be THAT different.

Some context, I was on unemployment for part of the year, I work a mix of W-2 and 1099s, and I rent my apartment. 

[LenaH]

After looking through the 2020 District of Columbia D-40 instructions, it would appear that from the facts given about your return, that no substantial adjustments would be made on your state return from your federal income.

However, what you are refunded on your federal and state tax returns depends largely on what you paid in tax. It is hard to tell you exactly what happened since I cannot see your return. 

You could use the TurboTax online calculator to estimate what your taxes should be and compare this with your return. If it varies, please recheck your return. TurboTax Income Tax Calculator. 

Please also double-check that your income from your W-2's and your unemployment are correct, as well as all of your withholdings. 

[bharveytdc]

The calculator spat out some pretty outlandish numbers, suggesting I may be entitled to 1200 dollars from the fed, or have to pay 2800, while my current estimate with all documents is owing 200 and change. So I'm not putting too much stock in the calculator. 

I have a mix of W-2s, 1099s, and unemployment from which I had state and federal taxes deducted. The sheer disparity between the numbers on the calculator when I put identical numbers in twice, and the difference between either of those and what the software says I will owe when I fill out all documents is concerning. 

[Irene2805]

Without seeing your return, it's hard to determine what may be causing the disparity.  

You can call TurboTax and speak with an agent.  TurboTax customer service/support does not have a single phone number but has many different phone numbers based on the type of platform used.  So that we can direct your call to the best person/department to help you:

1. Click on this link:  https://support.turbotax.intuit.com/contact/
2. Select your TurboTax platform.  
3. Ask your question / state your problem.  Do NOT use the word "refund' or you will get a phone number for tax refunds.
4. Click Submit.
5. On the next screen, choose the Call option and follow the instructions.  You will be given the approximate wait time.  

You'll get a toll-free number to a TurboTax expert who is specially-trained to handle your particular issue.

You may also wish to consider TurboTax Live.  TurboTax Live is an online product that lets you get help and guidance from a tax expert when preparing your taxes. Please click this link for more information:  What is TurboTax Live?