Can I use EE savings bond interest earned in 2016 to pay education costs in 2015?

[sobuczala]

I paid tuition and fees in 2015 and cashed in bonds in 2016.  How do I indicate tuition and fees paid in a prior year on my 2016 form?

[MargaretL]

When going through 1099-INT for bonds data entry, the program will ask "Did you use your bonds to pay for higher education expenses"... you must go through the qualifying questions...

[MargaretL]

Yes, you can - as long as the payment is for qualified education expenses for yourself, spouse, or a dependent for whom you claim an exemption on your return.  Qualified education expenses include tuition and fees required to enroll at or attend an eligible school.  The expenses do not include room and board or for courses involving sports, games or hobbies that aren't part of a degree or certificate-granting program.