If we qualify for the Tuition Deduction and the lifetime learning credit, why can't I pick the lifetime learning credit? It's a ~700 dollar credit for me and my wife.

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
January 30, 2021
1 reply
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The tuition deduction doesn't add any money to our refund, and I believe the credit would add the 700~ dollars.

TurboTax Deluxe Online

DawnC

Employee

Neither the credit, nor the deduction is refundable. But you can compare your options and choose the best deduction or credit for your family. Generally speaking, the IRS only lets you take one education credit or deduction. If you qualify for two or more education credits or deductions, the TurboTax Education Optimizer picks the one that gives you the biggest tax break.

To override this selection, search for letme (one word, no space) and select the Jump to letme link. This will take you to the Education Credits and Deduction screen, where you can switch to a different education credit or deduction, assuming you meet the qualifications.

If you don't see Jump to, make sure you're in your return. In the left column, you'll see Tax Home, once you select it, you should see a button to open your return. Select that and follow the steps above.

Related Information:

What education tax credits are available?

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Hal_Al

Employee

Type letme (no space between let & me) in the search box. When the dropdown list appears, click on letme rather than "jump to letme'. On the next drop down, click on the "jump to letme” link.

The tuition and fees deduction usually transfers (as part of the federal AGI) to the state return, so you get the deduction there too. Sometimes that is the reason TT chooses the TFD over the LLC.