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New Member
posted Jun 6, 2019 1:30:01 AM

For my 1098-T, I am not a dependant so it says I can claim the educational expenses. My parents paid for part of my tuition and the rest I took out in loans, whatdo I do?

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2 Replies
Level 15
Jun 6, 2019 1:30:03 AM

You may count both the expenses paid by your parents and the expenses paid by loans, in calculating the tuition credit.

Be aware that  a student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he supports himself by working. You cannot be supporting yourself on parental support, 529 plans or student loans & grants.   The fact that you are not a dependent does not make you eligible for it. It is usually best if the parent claims that credit. 

Intuit Alumni
Jun 6, 2019 1:30:04 AM

ALL the expenses are claimed by the same Taxpayer, the Taxpayer that claims the student. 

If you are claiming yourself, you claim all the payments made in 2018, including payments made by others, scholarships, grants, as well as financed with student loans. 

The expenses paid for with scholarships can only be claimed for a credit if you allocate the scholarship to "Other education expenses", such as room and board and also claim the scholarship as income. 

Enter the 1098-T and follow the interview. You must count any times your parents claimed the credits as part of your limit for the American Opportunity Tax Credit. 

CLICK HERE for IRS Pub 970 Tax Benefits for Education