Can I use a use a 1098 of 2015 in my 2016 tax return?

[alexisverheyen]

My studies started in early January and ended in July. But because I paid in December the 1098T is registered as for 2015 but I just received it now from my school. What should I do ?

[TomK · Accepted solution]

No, you can not use the 2015 1098-T Tuition statement when preparing your 2016 Income Tax return.

You will need to amend your 2015 Return.  Here is a link to the instructions of how to change or correct something after you already filed it.

How do I amend a 2015 return in TurboTax?

[alexisverheyen]

Sorry, instead of commenting this post I answered my own question

[alexisverheyen]

Good evening,  Thank you for your answer!  Unfortunately, it is the first time I have to fill in the tax return, which means I don't have any 2015 tax return to amend. Can I create one now or is it too late? What could I do ? Yours faithfully

[TomK]

Did you have any earned (taxable) income in 2015?

[alexisverheyen]

I did not earn anything in 2015, I was not in the USA that year

[TomK]

Then NO, you can not claim the education expense from 2015.  An education credit helps with the cost of higher education by reducing the amount of tax owed on your tax return.  If the credit reduces your tax to less than zero, you may get a refund.  However, since you had no earned income in 2015, then you had no tax liability.