Is it correct that Lifetime Learning Credit and Tuition & Fees Deduction can't be used for books that can be bought anywhere? If so, then where can these be deducted?

[BTRR]

Is it correct that the Lifetime Learning Credit and the Tuition & Fees Deduction can't be used for books/supplies that can be purchased anywhere? If so, then where can I deduct the books/supplies that I purchased at a non-University book store?

I've already used the American Opportunity Credit for 4-years, so I can no longer use it.

Am I out of options for deducting the books/supplies I purchased at a non-University book store?

[Coleen3 · Accepted solution]

According to the IRS, no, they must be purchased as a requirement, from the school. The reason being that books would not normally be deductible, but since the college itself is requiring you to buy it from the school, it now would be.

OVERVIEW

You can deduct qualifying expenses paid in the tax year for:

• Education during in the year, or
• Education that begins during the year, or
• Education that begins during the first three months of the following year.

Which expenses qualify?

Qualifying expenses include what you pay in tuition and mandatory enrollment fees to attend any accredited public or private institution above the high school level.

You cannot take a deduction for:

• Room and board, optional fees (such as for student health insurance), transportation, or other similar personal expenses.
• Course-related books and supplies, unless you are required to buy them directly from the school.
• Any course involving sports, games or hobbies, unless it’s part of the degree program.

[BTRR]

TurboTaxColeen, based on your answer, am I out of options?

[Coleen3]

I'm afraid so.