Can I claim the American Opportunity Credit if I'm filing my own taxes, after my parents claimed me during my first 3 years of college?

[BHALLEY]

Hi there! 

Back in 2013-2015 I was a dependent going to college. In 2016, I ended up dropping out of university and moving cities. Now, I'm back to finally finish my degree (yay!) and TurboTax is asking me about the American Opportunity Credit. How do I answer whether or not I received it previously if my parents filed me as a dependent when I was in college originally? I'm 

[Hal_Al]

Q. Can I claim the American Opportunity Credit  (AOC)if I'm filing my own taxes, after my parents claimed me during my first 3 years?

A. Yes. You are allowed one more AOC.

Q.  How do I answer whether or not I received it previously if my parents filed me as a dependent when I was in college originally?

A. You answer yes and enter 3.  The times your parents claimed the AOC count towards your 4 time limit.

After you (and your parents) use your 4 AOC credits, you can claim the less generous Lifetime learning Credit or Tuition and Fees deduction for additional years.