Why does it say I paid $4000 on my federal tax return when I am filling out my state tax return, when I really entered much more than that from my 1098 form?

[e-schlaep]

I am trying to do my Oregon tax return, and when I try to enter my tuition expenses, it is telling me the number I am entering is too high.  However, the number it says is listed on my federal return ($4000) seems random and is much less than I actually paid in tuition.

[MichaelMc · Accepted solution]

I believe the number to which you are referring is the Tuition and Fees Deduction, Line 34 on Form 1040. That deduction is capped at $4,000 per year, regardless of how much more you may have paid in qualified tuition and fees for post-secondary education.

The following guidance is provided by the Oregon Department of Revenue: 

"Full-year residents. Oregon allows the deduction you claimed on your federal return. The federal deduction flows through to your Oregon return via your federal adjusted gross income. Do not claim an additional deduction on your Oregon return." [Emphasis added.]

For more information, please refer to https://www.oregon.gov/DOR/forms/FormsPubs/publication-or-17_101-431_2016.pdf, page 52.