Q. Would it be best to file 1098-T for this next year and then 2022 to get back credit and then just file 2021 to get the stimulus check?
A. Assuming you had more than $4000 in tuition in both 2021 and 2022, claiming both the AOTC and stimulus on 2021 would negate the need to file 2022, at all. If if something goes wrong, you still get another year to file 2022. The deadline for filing 2021 is 4/15/25 (3 years from the due date).
Q. I am wondering if I claim in 2026 or 2025 taxes to get the AOTC can I still get AOTC for either 2021 or 2022?
You can still get 2022 or 2021 (but not both), if you claim 2025 (4 time limit).
You will not qualify for the AOTC in 2026, if you graduate in Dec. 2025. But there is a non refundable credit (Lifetime Learning Credit) for those who have already completed four years of post secondary educ.
