Credits we check · United States

Did you miss the American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning credit?

RefundSift checks your United States tax situation for the American Opportunity or Lifetime Learning credit. Here is what it is, in plain language, with links to the official IRS pages.

Who qualifies

• You, your spouse or a dependant paid qualified tuition at an eligible school (shown on Form 1098-T).
• AOTC: only for the first 4 years of post-secondary education. LLC: any year, including single courses.
• Your modified AGI must be under $90,000 ($180,000 married filing jointly) for full eligibility.

How much

AOTC: up to $2,500 per eligible student, and 40% of it is refundable. LLC: 20% of the first $10,000 of expenses (up to $2,000 per return), non-refundable. Claimed on Form 8863.

How far back you can claim

To claim a refund on Form 1040-X, the IRS says you generally must file within 3 years after the date you filed the original return, or 2 years after the date you paid the tax, whichever is later.

Official sources

• Compare education credits: AOTC and LLC (IRS)
• About Form 8863 (IRS)
• File an amended return (IRS)

Not tax advice. This page is general information based on the official sources above, which can change. Rules and amounts depend on your full situation and the tax year. Check the official source or a qualified professional before you claim.