I am a Starbucks employee, tuition is paid. How much do I write in the box that asks what portion of box 5 is from my employer? Will this negatively affect my tax return?

[LinaJ2018]

Did you receive a Form 1098-T?  Are you referring to the 1098-T when you ask about box 5?

[ashlie1320]

Yes, I received the 1098-T, and am referring to box 5 in that form.

[LinaJ2018]

Are there any amounts in other boxes? Is your tuition is paid by your employment 100%?  Did you pay any out of pocket expenses?

[ashlie1320]

The only amount I paid out of pocket was reimbursed at the end of the semester. Box 1 also has an amount for payments received for qualified tuition and related expenses.

[LinaJ2018]

Please see answer below.

[ashlie1320]

Thank you so much!!!!

[LinaJ2018]

You are very welcome!

[LinaJ2018 · Accepted solution]

Basically, if you do not pay any out of pocket expenses, you do not qualify for an education credit. You only need to file the Form 1098-T if you are going to claim. If all your expenses are paid or reimbursed by your employer, you do not need to enter the Form 1098-T information.  There is no negative impact on your tax return, but save your effort entering the information.

[saraiappel]

SCAP (starbucks college achievement plan) Is paid for 100% but any tuition over $5250 per semester is taxed as income.

[Hal_Al]

If box 5 of the 1098-T included  scholarships other than the employer paid assistance/reimbursement, the answer may be different.