Form 1098-T: Tuition Statement
Report qualified tuition and related expenses for education tax credits.
Filing Deadline
January 31 (to student) / February 28 (paper) or March 31 (e-file) to IRS
Purpose
Enables education tax credits (American Opportunity, Lifetime Learning)
Who Receives
Students enrolled at eligible educational institutions
Overview
Form 1098-T is issued by colleges, universities, and other post-secondary educational institutions to report qualified tuition and related expenses. Students and parents use this form to claim education tax credits.
The form helps taxpayers claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit (up to $2,500) or Lifetime Learning Credit (up to $2,000) for qualified education expenses.
Who Must File
Required Filers
- •Eligible educational institutions (colleges, universities, vocational schools)
- •Institution must be eligible to participate in student aid programs
- •Must file for each student enrolled and who had qualified expenses
- •Required even if student didn't pay (if billed amounts)
Exceptions & Notes
- ✕Not required for courses with no academic credit
- ✕Not required for students whose expenses are entirely covered by scholarships
- ✕Not required for nonresident alien students (unless requesting)
Form Structure & Instructions
Here's what information is required in each section:
Payment and Billing Information
Tuition and fees reported
Student Status
Enrollment and academic status
Important Filing Notes
Box 1 Shows Payments, Not All Are Qualified
Box 1 shows payments received but may include non-qualified expenses like room, board, insurance. You must determine qualified expenses for your specific credit.
American Opportunity Tax Credit
Worth up to $2,500 per student for first 4 years. Student must be at least half-time (Box 8) in degree program. 40% is refundable. Phases out at higher incomes.
Lifetime Learning Credit
Worth up to $2,000 per tax return (not per student). Available for undergraduate, graduate, and courses to improve job skills. No enrollment status requirement. Not refundable.
Scholarships Reduce Credits
Scholarships and grants (Box 5) must reduce qualified expenses for credit calculation. However, taxable scholarships used for room/board don't reduce the credit.
Education Reporting for Institutions
Simplify Form 1098-T filing for your educational institution. We ensure accurate reporting and compliance with IRS requirements.
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