If my 1098t form is for classes the beginning of 2017, do i have to file it now?

[MargaretL]

Yes, you do have to file 1098-T for 2016 if you paid for 2017 classes in 2016 - so that you can take the credit on your 2016 tax return.  The IRS allows to claim qualified expenses for an academic period that starts during 2016 or the first three months of the next year. 

[rg402503]

should employee tuition assistance be listed as scholarships or grants on my 1098-t?

[MargaretL]

It often is... since it is a free-tax assistance.