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July 7, 2020
Question

Do I need to file state taxes if I didn't have any W-2 for 2019 but I have student tuition?

  • July 7, 2020
  • 1 reply
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I am filing the federal because I have tuition.

1 reply

Hal_Al
Employee
July 7, 2020

Simple answer: No. Most states do not have a refundable  tuition credit.

 

But taxes aren't simple. Which state? W-2s aren't the only source of taxable income. 

 

As to filing a federal return because you have student tuition; be advised that there's a new urban myth among college students that says they can get a $1000 from the government just for filing a tax form. For most of them, they simply aren't eligible. A full time unmarried student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he supports himself by working. You cannot be supporting yourself on parental support, 529 plans or student loans & grants. You usually must have actually paid tuition, not had it paid by scholarships & grants.  It is usually best if the parent claims that credit. 

You cannot claim a credit if you are, or can be, claimed as a dependent by someone else.

 

If you are a student, over age 23, and are not claimed as a dependent by someone else (e.g. your parent) you may be eligible for the up to $1000 refundable American Opportunity (tuition) Credit. That credit is not dependent on having either kids or earned income. You must be at least a half time undergraduate student. There's even a loop hole available to claim the credit, if you are on scholarship.