I claimed AOC in 2016, can I amend to remove it and claim it this year?

[Srumley0001]

I claimed the American Opportunity Credit in 2016. Can I amend that return, remove it, and claim it this year? My refund will be larger this year than 2016. 

[LinaJ2020]

No, you cannot.  

You can only use the education expenses you paid in a particular year and claim the benefit on that year's tax return.  The IRS does not allow you to interchange or swap the benefit between years.  You cannot use your education expenses that were paid in 2016 to claim a credit or deduction on your 2019 tax return. 

[Srumley0001]

Hi 

I am not trying to claim 2016 expenses in the 2019 year. I am trying to remove the credit I claimed in 2016 all together, and then claim the education expenses I had in 2019 for this years 2019 tax year. Can I do this? 

[AmyC]

You can amend the 2016 and pay what you owe. However, it will probably not process in time to file this year's return on time. You might need an extension for this year's return.

Another option is to file 2019 without and then go back and amend both.Returns cannot be amended until the money part has been settled.

Here are links to help you:

Where's my refund

file an amended return.

track an amended return