There is a difference ... just because someone CAN claim you doesn't mean they WILL claim you.
If they CAN claim you then you cannot claim yourself PERIOD.
However, if they do NOT claim you then you are eligible for the non refundable portion of the AOTC ... so the program needs to know both ... CAN you be claimed and WILL you be claimed. If your AGI is $12K or less then this is really a mute subject.
