Do I claim my 2018 tuition (paid in 2017) and scholarships (earned in 2017 but applied to Spring semester 2018) in my taxes now?

[georgesT · Accepted solution]

Yes, you may claim education credit in your 2017 taxes.

In general,  a Form 1098-T  will reflects the 2018 Spring semester fees being paid in the Fall semester of 2017.  Per IRS, you are allowed to claim the credit or deduction for the 2018 tuition paid amount shown on the 2017 Form 1098-T in the tax year of 2017 as if the 2018 spring semester began in 2017. 

See IRS requirements below:

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3300629

[kaseylai]

In reverse, I have a client who was billed in Dec 2016 and was billed to her "credit plan"  for 2017 Tuition. Can I take the credit in 2017?