If I am enrolled in an online degree program, can I claim my internet bill on my taxes?

[Bsch4477]

Yes, if claiming the American Opportunity Credit and you are otherwise qualified.  You would have to estimate the percentage that you use for education versus personal use. 

[kbcarlson3]

Do you have a reference for this? I'm in this same situation with the American Opportunity Credit but haven't been able to find anything official.

[Bsch4477]

Qualified education expenses

For purposes of tax-free scholarships and fellowships, these are expenses for:

• Tuition and fees required to enroll at or attend an eligible educational institution.
• Course-related expenses, such as fees, books, supplies, and equipment that are required for the courses at the eligible educational institution. These items must be required of all students in your course of instruction.
  https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-benefits-for-education-information-center
  
  

[JulieS]

The IRS doesn't specifically mention internet as a related education expense, but it is required to take an on line course. Click here to read the applicable section of IRS Publication 970. 

[kbcarlson3]

So would I have to claim just the percentage used for school or could I claim the entire amount? I've seen it's common to claim the entire cost of a laptop even though it might be used for other things, so I was curious if this applied to the internet bill as well.

[Bsch4477]

Similar to phone use, a percentage of use for courses would be wise. 

[Hal_Al]

I don't think you're gonna find an official answer, on that, just opinions. 

I'm of the opinion, if you are using the same internet, you were using before you started the classes, it is not deductible (you cannot claim it for the credit) because you didn't pay actually  for anything for education.  If you had to get internet, just to do the classes, the yes (probably) or if you had to upgrade the internet (the additional cost would count). Unlikely in the 21st century.  

That said, here's a real life example: Family member starting working from home. The rural internet couldn't handle the additional load.  He had to set up his own internet. Deductible.