I'm an F-1, can I claim 1098-t?

[spoonjoon]

Hello, 

I was a F-2 from 2007-2012, J-2 for 2018, and F-1 from 2019-2025. I meet the substantial presence test. Can I claim my 1098-t? Sprintax reported that i was a resident for tax purposes

[KeshaH]

Yes, you can claim education credits using your 1098-T. 

Since you met the substantial presence test and are treated as a resident for tax purposes, you can take advantages of various tax benefits just like any US resident - including education credits.

[spoonjoon]

Thank you. One more question. I was outside of school September 2022 ~ July 2024 due to my military service in another country. Would that cause an issue? I have done the math and passed the substantial presence test (about 210 days).

[KrisD15]

No, that would not cause an issue as long as you are filing as a U.S. Resident for tax filing purposes for all of 2024 and have an ITIN or Social Security Number.

IRS Pub 970