Can I claim the American Opportunity Credit if I'm filing my own taxes, after my parents claimed me during my first 3 years of college?

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
February 1, 2021
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Hi there!

Back in 2013-2015 I was a dependent going to college. In 2016, I ended up dropping out of university and moving cities. Now, I'm back to finally finish my degree (yay!) and TurboTax is asking me about the American Opportunity Credit. How do I answer whether or not I received it previously if my parents filed me as a dependent when I was in college originally? I'm

Hal_Al

Employee

Q. Can I claim the American Opportunity Credit (AOC)if I'm filing my own taxes, after my parents claimed me during my first 3 years?

A. Yes. You are allowed one more AOC.

Q. How do I answer whether or not I received it previously if my parents filed me as a dependent when I was in college originally?

A. You answer yes and enter 3. The times your parents claimed the AOC count towards your 4 time limit.

After you (and your parents) use your 4 AOC credits, you can claim the less generous Lifetime learning Credit or Tuition and Fees deduction for additional years.