I always get a huge refund; how do I turn that into bigger paychecks instead?

A huge refund means too much is being withheld, so reduce your withholding by filing a new W-4. In Step 3 claim credits you expect, such as the Child Tax Credit, and in Step 4b enter deductions above the standard deduction; both lower the amount withheld each paycheck. Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to convert your expected refund into a per-paycheck adjustment so you land near break-even. The extra take-home pay is best redirected on purpose, into an emergency fund, retirement, or debt, rather than absorbed into spending. Think of it as reclaiming an interest-free loan you were making to the IRS. Recheck after any big income or family change during the year.