Does Form 1040-SR count as a "simple return", or do I need to use Form 1040? Can I file Schedule 1 (state tax refund) as part of a "simple return"?

[bobbygchitown]

I intend to use the Standard Deduction, rather than itemize.  Does this affect the forms I need to use?

[ee-ea]

See this info

https://turbotax.intuit.com/modals/simple-tax-return/

[JohnB5677]

The standard deduction chart on Form 1040-SR is useful for seniors because it lists the bigger standard deductions people 65 and older are eligible to claim. Plus, it's in an easier-to-read format. The regular 1040 lists only the standard deductions non-seniors can claim and is in smaller text.

All of the forms you will need are included in both the 1040 and the 1040 SR.  

[VolvoGirl]

Everyone files on the full 1040 now.  The 1040 SR is exactly the same but with larger type so it prints on 3 pages instead of 2.  In the Online version you automatically get the 1049SR if you or your spouse is 65+.  In the Desktop program you can pick and force the one you want.

Did you itemize last year for 2020?   If you took the Standard Deduction you don't need to enter your state refund.  A State Tax Refund is taxable if you itemized deductions on that prior year's federal return and took a deduction for state income taxes instead of the sale tax.  You got a deduction benefit for it so now you have to include it as income. If you took the standard deduction it is not taxable and you don't need to report it.