How do I claim the Lifetime Learning Credit? I am no longer claimed as a dependent by my parents, but they pay my tuition. Can I claim the Lifetime Learning Credit?

[MindyB]

Yes, your parents will be unable to claim the credit because you're no longer their dependent. You can enter the information from your 1098-T to enter your payments, and answer the interview questions.  TurboTax will calculate the Lifetime Learning Credit you're entitled to.

Here's how to enter your 1098-T in TurboTax, from Where do I enter Form 1098-T (Tuition Statement)?:

• Enter the 1098-T in the section for Tuition:
  • TurboTax Online: Here is the link: 1098-T. or use the magnifying glass, type "1098-T", and select "Jump to 1098-T"
  • TurboTax Desktop: Select Search. Search for Form 1098-T.

See: Education credits - AOTC and LLC, How do Education Tax Credits Work?

[Hal_Al]

Q. Can I claim the Lifetime Learning Credit? I am no longer claimed as a dependent by my parents, but they pay my tuition.

A. Yes. 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.

Who can claim a dependent's education expenses?   If a student is claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return, all qualified education expenses of the student are treated as having been paid by that person. Therefore, only that person can claim an education credit for the student. If a student is not claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return, only the student can claim a credit.

But, whomever does claim him, whether it be the  parent or the student himself, he may count the tuition and expenses,  paid by others, in claiming the credit for themselves.