I file single, 28 yrs old, make 36000 year. When I file tax return do I use 1040 form and standard deduction?

The Form 1040 is the federal tax return for every taxpayer, so there is nothing for you to select.

The Standard Deduction is the default unless the itemized deductions are greater than the Standard Deduction for your filing status.

 

Standard deductions for 2020

• Single - $12,400 add $1,650 if age 65 or older
• Married Filing Separately - $12,400 add $1,300 if age 65 or older
• Married Filing Jointly - $24,800 add $1,300 for each spouse age 65 or older
• Head of Household - $18,650 add $1,650 if age 65 or older

Everyone uses a Form 1040.    The last time there was a 1040EZ or 1040A was for the 2017 tax year.  Unless you have enough itemized deductions to exceed your standard deduction, you automatically get your standard deduction.

 

Your standard deduction lowers your taxable income.  It is not a refund.  You will see your standard or itemized deduction amount on line 12 of your 2020 Form 1040.

 

 

2020 Standard Deduction Amounts

 

Single $12,400   (+ $1650 65 or older)

Married Filing Separate  $12,400   (+ $1300 if 65 or older)

Married Filing Jointly $24,800   (+ $1300 for each spouse 65 or older)

Head of Household $18,650  (+ $1650 for 65 or older)

 

 

And....your grandparents cannot claim you as a dependent even though you live with them.  You made too much money.