Thank you so much, Hal_Al. I am so relieved to hear what I filed for 2023 is correct. I now understand how this will work going forward, too. I appreciate the info on the scenario where the scholarship funds appear to be greater than expenses. I will look at this further in case my student's last year in college goes this way.
I do have one follow-up question regarding the books and computer expenses you described at the end of your answer. I know book expenses can be claimed but how does one claim expenses for the purchase of a laptop for school? Are there any supporting documents or proof required? Generally speaking, we all know students need a computer for college work these days but as it pertains to claiming it for AOTC, do I need to know of any particular requirements? My second child is starting college in August this year and we just bought a laptop for that purpose.
On a related note, are required course (non-book) materials also a qualified education expense? For example, if a course requires purchase of certain tools or consumable materials (e.g., paints, canvases, pliers, etc.), can these costs be included in qualified expenses?
Thanks again, Hal_Al! I greatly appreciate your help.
