I had Fall 2020 classes that i paid for late, in January 2021 however it was billed in September of 2020. It is not included on my 1098-T can I still include it?

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

Q. Can I still include it on my 2020 tax return?

A. No, because it wasn't paid in 2020.

It's a double whammy. Technically, you will also not be able to claim it on your 2021 tax return, because the payment was not for 2021  courses.  The money will most likely not show in box 1 of the 2021 1098-T.

For others reading this, you are allowed to claim, on your 2020 return, money you paid in 2020, for first  term of 2021. But not money you paid in 2021 for 2020.   It ain't fair, but that's the rules

[aelfa001]

@Hal_Al I understand this, but can claim money paid for school for the period between January-March 2021 correct? 

Another Q can I add this number and say the 1098-T is incorrect? Or I have to get the 1098-T from school first?

Thank you

[ReneeM7122]

No, you can't alter the 1099-T form.  This could trigger an IRS audit because they will look to see that your information matches the information that was sent by the school.

You must enter all of the information exactly as it appears on the 1098.  It isn't important whether the tuition was paid in advance.

[aelfa001]

I contacted the school. Thank you for your advice. I will not be editing or writing any additional info. Thank you for your help. 

[MarilynG1]

If you paid for classes for Jan-March 2021 in 2020, you can claim them in your Education Expenses.

However, if your 1098-T has Box 7 checked, the school has already included this amount in your Tuition Paid amount shown.

If it does not, you can enter your 1098-T, and check the box that says 'this is not the amount I paid to the school' and enter the correct total (including 2021 payments made in 2020).

Keep records that you paid in 2020 for 2021.

Click this link for more info on How to Enter a 1098-T. 

[Scoop980]

Thank you for a very clear answer. I also paid a late 2020 tuition bill in January 2021and was wondering if it could be claimed in 2020 or 2021 taxes.

[Hal_Al]

@Scoop980  You appear to have the exact same situation as the original poster.  Technically, you are not allowed to claim that on either your 2020 or 2021 tax return.

If it shows up on your 2021 1098-T, you might be able to.