My parents did not claim me on their taxes. I cannot get the american opportunity credit because it says they claim me. Where do i fix this incorrect box check?

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

Go back to the personal  info section. One of the questions is CAN you be claimed on someone else's return, followed by were you claimed. 

While technically there is a provision that allows you to claim a tuition credit, from a practical matter it seldom works out.  A student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he/she supports himself by working . She cannot be supporting herself on student loans & grants and 529 plans and parental support.  It is usually best if the parent claims that credit.   The earned income support question is also part of the personal info interview.

If the student actually has a tax liability she can claim a non-refundable credit but then the parent must forgo claiming the student's dependency and the student still can’t claim himself.