Q. I am 26 and cannot be claimed as a dependent by anyone. Does this change my ability to receive a tax break?
A. Yes.
Only the American Opportunity Credit (AOC) has a refundable feature. The AOC is not available for Grad students. The AOC may only be claimed 4 times in your education career. Times claimed by your parent, back when you were a dependent count towards your 4 times.
