The American Opportunity credit (AOTC)

[aiWATERS]

I am a fulltime student, and didn't work at all in 2024.  Can I still get the The American Opportunity credit (AOTC)?  I went through the TT steps and it says I cant get it.  Not sure why?  I did get the credit the last 3 years, but I worked part-time.  

[Bsch4477]

You might not qualify for the refundable part of the credit. If so, since you had no tax liability the credit would have no effect on your return. 

[Hal_Al · Accepted solution]

 A full time unmarried student, under age 24, even if you don't qualify as a dependent, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he supports himself by working. You cannot be supporting yourself on parental support, 529 plans or student loans & grants. It is usually best if the parent claims that credit. 

You cannot claim the (up to) $1000 refundable credit if you are, or can be, claimed as a dependent by someone else.

Reference: Line 7 instructions for form 8863.

https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i8863#en_US_2024_publink53002gd0e674