Q. Do any certain boxes need to be checked?
A. Not necessarily.
Q. Does The at least half time student box need to be checked?
A. Only for the more generous credit.
Q. Are any box number’s supposed to be greater or less than another box (ex. Box 1 & 5)?
A. Usually box 1 needs to be more than box 5. But, there may be additional qualified expenses. And there is a loop hole available to claim a credit, even if you are on scholarship.
You're wanting a simple answer to a complex question. There isn't one. That's why you enter your info and let TT do the determination.
For more specific advice, provide more specific info, particularly what's in box 1 and box 5. Are you half time or more? Are you a degree candidate? Are you an undergrad? Do you have a tax liability.
