How to increase chances for refund on 2021 taxes

[corgigal]

Hi,

I have watched my tax liability increase over the last 5 years and would like to turn that around. I already have my withholding set at S 01 (I am divorced and have no dependents). I do not currently own a home and am working toward buying one again but it will be another year or so before I can do that. I am employed full time, do intermittent contract work for the federal government (that brings in $1-3k/yr). My AGI in 2020 was $77k. I am a state employee and have a retirement account through that job (75% is pension, 25% is in a different type of account; both are inaccessible to me until I retire). 

Is there anything I can do to stop the trend of paying more and more, other than buy property?

[RayW7]

5 Hidden Ways to Boost Your Tax Refund

1. Rethink your filing status. One of the first decisions you make when completing your tax return — choosing a filing status — can affect your refund's size, especially if you're married. ...
2. Embrace tax deductions. ...
3. Maximize your IRA and HSA contributions. ...
4. Remember, timing can boost your tax refund. ...
5. Become tax credit savvy.

-follow these links for additional information-

5 Hidden Ways to Boost Your Tax Refund - TurboTax Tax Tips ...

Ways to Increase Your Tax Refund You Never ... - TurboTax