Want to amend my taxes possibly. Was told I may be able to claim purcahsing a Laptop for college is this an item that could be claimed?

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

Simple answer: yes.

But (thank you congress) taxes aren't simple. The requirement  to be considered "course materials & equipment" the computer must be required by the college. That's a fuzzy definition. Bottom line, "everybody" claims their computer. 

The tuition credit, or deduction,  is based on all your Qualified higher education expenses (QHEE) (tuition, fees and course materials). You are only allowed one credit or deduction per student.  If you already claimed the maximum credit for the tax year, you want to amend ($2500 American Opportunity Credit* or $2000 Lifetime learning Credit); it will do you no good to amend.

*The AOC is broken down into two pieces on your form 1040 (line 50 & 68) or 1040A (lines 33 & 44)

[nate2323231]

Thank you for the help!  Clears it up for me!