I have my w-2, but havent gotten my 1098 yet. Am I legally required to include the 1098, or can I skip it since Ive never gotten anything from it on any prior returns?

[KenH1]

The 1098 (or 1098-T) can only help you but not hurt you, so the IRS won't question it's absence.

I recommend waiting for it.  There are a lot of "moving parts" when it comes to deductions and you might be pleasantly surprised.