I believe the 1098-t I received has information in the wrong boxes?

[katylyn808]

I have received a 1098-T from my University, however this is the first year where I have information in Box 1. In my previous four years, the information has always been in Box 2. However, when I try to match up the totals, the total of Box 1 actually matches the total amounts billed? On my form, it lists all my totals for Payments Received, Amounts Billed, and Scholarships or Grants. Should I use this information instead of what's listed in the boxes?

[AnthonyC · Accepted solution]

The IRS changed the reporting requirements a few years ago (schools were given a grace period to comply) and schools are no longer allowed to use Box 2 reporting.  They are required to report using Box 1.  Regardless, you should be using the amount you actually paid for tuition expenses.  So, if that is different than box 1, then you can use the option to change it in TurboTax (there is a link on the Form 1098-T entry screen).