My laptop will not cut it for my online schooling. Can I write a computer purchase off as a tax expense if it is for school?

[cowboydog2016]

I currently have an older laptop that will not run some of the materials I will need for my course work. I would be using the PC for personal use as well.

[Hal_Al]

Yes, computers and soft ware are qualified expenses for the education credits. 

The rule is: if your computer is a necessary requirement for enrollment or attendance at an educational institution, the IRS deems it a qualifying expense. If you are using the computer simply out of convenience, it most likely does not qualify for a tax credit.

That language is a little wishy washy, but everybody who buys a computer while going to school is going to count it.

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/college-and-education/can-i-deduct-my-computer-for-school-on-ta...