Shouldn't job-related expenses act to increase my Federal Refund?

[ehundredmark]

I am claiming about $6000 in expenses for tools that I use 100% in my job.  I asked to use the full deduction this year.  However, my refund amount did not change at all.  Why?  Thanks!

[WillK · Accepted solution]

Not necessarily. When you add in your deductions for your job related expenses, it decreases the amount of taxable income you have, it does not add directly to your refund. When you decrease your taxable income, it might reduce or eliminate some other credits and deductions you would qualify for at a higher taxable income. You might not see an increase or decrease to your refund depending on the amount of expenses you enter in to the program.