1098 school form

[evegracec]

I received my grad school tax form and i did not pay for grad school. My dad did. But I am listed as an independent like always. So, do I still file? Or can I still file and he files also?

[KrisD15]

To clarify, if you are a dependent, do you have any income to claim which would require you file a return? 

Did you receive a scholarship? 

As a dependent, you cannot claim an Education Credit but the person that claims you might be eligible for the credit. 

If your dad claims you, he could enter the 1098-T to apply for a credit if Box 1 is larger than Box 5 (more expenses than scholarships) 

[evegracec]

No, I have always claimed Independent and I claimed that this year as well. I I have my own separate income! I also didn’t receive a scholarship from them! My parents are divorced so my dad has never claimed me either. I’m also 23!

[KrisD15]

I see, 

yes, although someone else paid the tuition, if you are not a dependent, you claim the education expenses.

It would be the same as if your dad gave you a gift and you paid the tuition.

So, YES you can enter the 1098-T and apply for a credit. 

Be aware, if you started Grad school in 2023, but was also finishing up classes for your first four years in 2023, (for example, graduated with Bachelor's in May and started Grad school in June) you would select "No, you did not complete all four years of the degree" for the credit. 

If you ONLY attended grad school, you would only be eligible for the Lifetime Learning Credit, not the American Opportunity Tax Credit. 

[evegracec]

Okay, thank you! So, could he still file for this also since he paid? Or they will tell him no since I am not a dependent?

[KrisD15]

They would tell him NO.

In your situation, only you can claim the expenses, no matter who paid them. 

[evegracec]

Okay, thank you!!