Education

"would it be safe to just not claim the AOC this year on my taxes"

Sure, you are not obligated to apply for the credit.

If you don't know how many times the American Opportunity Tax Credit has been used, it's certainly "safe" to just not claim it, but you might be missing out on a larger refund.  

Answering tax questions on this education credit (AOTC) can be difficult because this is an area where the IRS gives you, the Taxpayer, options. Your decision to apply for a credit should be based not only on what has happened in the current tax year, but also what has happened in past tax years, AND what will occur in the future. 

You say you honestly don't remember how many times you claimed the credit, and that's problematic. To apply for the American Opportunity Tax Credit, you need to answer whether you (or anyone claiming you as a dependent in the past) have claimed the credit 4 times. That is the limit of times you can claim the AOTC. 

Next, the credit is REFUNDABLE meaning even if no tax is due, the credit can increase your refund. 

The last time you can take the AOTC ( If it has not been used 4 times) is in the tax year you finally earn the degree. It is wise to plan ahead, would it be more advantageous to take the credit this year or next? 

You say you made less than the Standard Deduction. Can someone else claim you as their dependent? If so, and you won't have a tax liability, you can't take the credit on your return. 

There is the option of the Lifetime Learning Credit, however that credit is not refundable The Tuition and Fees deduction is no longer available for tax year 2021.

Lastly, should you file? Below is a link to an IRS interview to determine if you NEED to file. Keep in mind that the IRS may need your information for Stimulus payments if you have not received yours. 

IRS Link Do You Need To File