CPA Review Course

[Pooja Singhi]

I am on an H1 Visa and do not have any job in hand. I am pursuing CPA and paid fees to Wiley Efficient learning. Can I claim this as deduction anywhere- Lifetime learning credit or somewhere?

It is an online course and I do not have to attend any school.

[MinhT1]

As you have no income, you cannot claim any education credit or deduction.

[Pooja Singhi]

I am filing a Joint return with my husband and he is earning income. Can I claim the fees I paid for the enrollment and books.

[KurtL1]

No, you cannot deduct the CPA preparation costs on your return.

To be able to deduct them as educational expenses you must receive a Form 1098-T showing the Tuition and Fees paid to an accredited educational institution. The institution must be one that is accredited to accept student loans from the U.S Department of Education.

To be deductible, your Work-Related Education Expenses must be for education that

1. Maintains or improves skills needed in your present work, or 
2. A law requires to keep your present salary, status or job.

However, even if the education meets either of these tests, the education can't be part of a program that will qualify you for a new trade or business or that you need to meet the minimal educational requirements of your present trade or business.