While technically there is a provision that allows a student-dependent to claim a federal tuition credit, from a practical matter it seldom works out. A student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit (AOTC) if he/she supports himself by working. She cannot be supporting herself on student loans & grants and 529 plans and parental support. It is usually best if the parent claims that credit. So, it may be them that needs to file an amended return for 2022, not you.
If the student actually has a tax liability, there is a provision to allow him to claim a non-refundable tuition credit. But then the parent must forgo claiming the student as a dependent, and the $500 other dependent credit. The student must still indicate that he can be claimed as a dependent, on his return. This is worth up to $2500 (not $1500, as the AOTC shifts to all non refundable). TurboTax can/will handle this.
Q. I am a student and my parents were eligible to get an American Opportunity Credit but decided to have me claim it on my return. How do I do that?
A. In TurboTax (TT), enter at:
Federal Taxes Tab (Personal for H&B version)
Deductions & Credits
“I’ll choose what I want to work on” button (if presented)
-Scroll down to:
--Education
--Education Expenses and Scholarships (1098-T)
