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New Member
posted Mar 18, 2020 6:36:37 PM

I usually get $1000 for being a college student. But this year I dont see that listed as a refund. What could be the issue?

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2 Replies
Expert Alumni
Mar 18, 2020 6:52:46 PM

Here are some links to help answer your question:

Let us know more about your situation and 1098T for more help.

Level 15
Mar 19, 2020 10:00:35 AM

The issue could well be that you erroneously claimed a credit in past years.

There's a new urban myth among college students that says they can get a $1000 from the government just for filing a tax form. For most of them, they simply aren't eligible. A full time unmarried 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. You usually must have actually paid tuition, not had it paid by scholarships & grants.  It is usually best if the parent claims that credit. 

You cannot claim a credit if you are, or can be, claimed as a dependent by someone else.

 

 If you are eligible, you have answered  something wrong, in the interview. Go thru the interview again. In particular, Edit your personal information at the beginning of the software. When Turbotax (TT) sees from your birth date that you are under 24, it specifically asks if you provided more than half your support with earned income. 

But, a lot of people are just not eligible. See https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/AOTC