I'm a dependent student, and my 1098-T Box 1 is higher than Box 5. So I had to pay out of pocket for both semesters.
I'm wondering if I need to include the 1098-T on my tax return. I know I don't qualify for the AOTC since I'm a dependent, but I’m sure my will. So am I supposed to include the 1098T or is it something only parents need to include in their taxes? I feel like it would be redundant for both of us to include it, but I’m not sure.
Posted by Practical_Trust5417
2 Comments
You would have your parents claim the AOTC for you since you’re a dependent. Depending o their income they might get the full amount. You also want to include any qualified education expenses like books.
As a dependent you miss out on credits.
Depending on your age, your parents could choose to not claim you a a dependent. Which would allow you to claim AOTC if you qualify. You would need file as an independent and have provided months. Half of your support. There are a few qualifications when you are under 24.
Your parents should report the 1098-T on their return to claim the credit, as only the person claiming you as a dependent gets the tax benefit. You don’t need to report it at all since your scholarships didn’t exceed your tuition costs.
Reporting it on both returns is a common mistake that triggers unnecessary IRS letters, so keep it strictly on your parents’ filing 🛡️.
Are your parents definitely claiming you as a dependent for the 2025 tax year?