Do i need receipts for the "required materials" deduction in the Lifetime Learning Credit? Turbotax doesn't require. Will i receive a letter from IRS requesting proof?

[cooljuno411]

Will I be required to submit receipts or proof of purchase for the "required materials" deductions used in the Lifetime Learning Credit? The Lifetime Learning Credit allows you to deduct 20% of up to $10,000. I purchased around $3800 in required materials. There are a handful of receipts. Turbotax does not require you to submit proof. Does the IRS require proof? Will i receive a follow up letter requesting receipts?"

[LisaBr]

You do not need to submit your receipts to the IRS through TurboTax. 

The IRS does not require these receipts generally unless your figures represent something unusual to the general public or expenses.  For education, $3,800 is not a difficult amount to spend.  Many required books, computer equipment and other expenditures are customary and usual.

However with education expenses and other entries that require you to submit figures, you should be able to substantiate what you enter to the IRS if they ask you to.  These records can be from personal records, bank or credit card statements, mileage logs, etc.