American Opportunity Tax Credit

[Jodi101481]

My child who is a college student and does not support themselves filed their taxes and marked that no one else could claim them is preventing me from claiming the American Opportunity Tax Credit.  Can the child's tax return be amended so that I can get the credit?

[CatinaT1]

Yes.  The dependent will need to amend their return.  You will need to paper file since the dependent already filed and claimed them self.  There will be no way for your to file electronically without getting a rejection.

See this TurboTax FAQ for help with amending.

This article will give you instruction on how to print and mail your return.

[Jodi101481]

Is there a time limit on amending a tax return?  I was told since they filed in February it would be too late now.

[BillM223]

@Jodi101481

The problem is how long will it take the IRS to process your child's amended return. This year being the way it is, there is no way to know.

You have three years in which to amend your return.

I recommend that once your child amends his/her return, that you wait a few weeks and then you amend yours and just mail it in.