topic Can I deduct college tuition payments made for a non-dependent family member? in Education

Can I deduct college tuition payments made for a non-dependent family member?

saunce — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:52:55 GMT

I paid for my nephew's college tuition and fees. Can I deduct these even though I am not claiming him as a dependent?

Re: Can I deduct college tuition payments made for a non-dependent family member?

Bsch4477 — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 15:57:07 GMT

No, he would have to be your dependent for you to claim education credit.

Re: Can I deduct college tuition payments made for a non-dependent family member?

Hal_Al — Sat, 26 Feb 2022 16:29:32 GMT

No, but the person who does claim the student, as a dependent, may count the money you paid in claiming the tuition credit for himself. If the student is a non dependent, he can claim the money you paid, if he otherwise qualifies.

Although the general rule, in taxes, is that you must be the one making the payment, to get the deduction, there is an exception for education.