how do i find out why my federal tax refund went down $3000?

[JohnB5677]

If it is exactly $3,000 I would guess it is the Child Tax Credit.

I suggest you look at your tax return

From the left sidebar

1. Select Tax tools
2. Hint: You may have to minimize the Federal and State selections
3. Click Tools
4. A Menu will pop up
5. Select View tax summary
6. On the left panel click Preview my 1040
7. Check line 19

Some Key numbers to compare:

• 11 Adjusted Gross Income
• 12 Deductions
• 15 Taxable income
• 16 Tax
• 19 Child Tax Credit
• 26 Earned Income Tax Credit
• 28 Additional Child Tax Credit
• 33 Total Payments
• 34 Overpayment
• 35a Refund
• 37 Amount you owe