Why was my return smaller this year

[sampsonmines · Accepted solution]

You will need to compare your return year over year, as this is an online forum and no one can view your return.  Print out a copy of your prior year return, and then log into your current year return and click on the "My Account" link and then on "Tools." This will open a window where you can click on View My Tax Summary, and finally then click on the link which says "Preview my 1040."  When you see your current year's 1040 return compare each line to prior years.  There is always some significant difference which will explain the difference. It could be anything from your earned income credit decreased because you made or or less income, or you had a penalty for early withdrawal from a retirement account, etc.