Can we claim educational expenses for a grandchild?

splee1966 · ‎April 08, 2026

We can't claim her as a dependent, but paid all of her college expenses.

Vanessa A

No. In order to claim an education credit for educational expenses paid for your grandchild, you would need to claim her as a dependent on your return. You can not claim an education credit for someone who is not either a taxpayer, spouse or dependent on your return.

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Hal_Al

No. But, whomever does claim her, whether it be the parent or the student herself, they may count the tuition and expenses, you paid, in claiming the credit for themselves.

Although the general rule, in taxes, is that you must be the one making the payment, to get the deduction or credit, there is an exception for education.