Smart tax strategies for college students

[UNITED STATES] The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers several tax credits and deductions specifically designed to help offset the costs of higher education. "These tax benefits can help you save thousands of dollars on your taxes," says Lisa Greene-Lewis, a CPA and tax expert for TurboTax. "It's important for students and their families to understand what's available to them and how to claim these benefits."

Understanding Tax Credits for College Students

The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC)

The American Opportunity Tax Credit is one of the most valuable tax benefits available to college students and their families. This credit can be claimed for the first four years of post-secondary education and provides a maximum annual credit of $2,500 per eligible student.

Key features of the AOTC:

• Up to $2,500 per eligible student
• Available for the first four years of higher education
• 100% of the first $2,000 of qualified expenses, plus 25% of the next $2,000
• 40% of the credit (up to $1,000) is refundable

To qualify for the full credit, your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) must be $80,000 or less ($160,000 or less for married couples filing jointly)4. The credit phases out for incomes above these thresholds.

The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC)

The Lifetime Learning Credit is another valuable option, especially for graduate students or those taking classes to improve job skills. Unlike the AOTC, there's no limit on the number of years you can claim this credit.

Key features of the LLC:

• Worth up to $2,000 per tax return
• No limit on the number of years it can be claimed
• Available for all years of post-secondary education and courses to acquire or improve job skills
• 20% of the first $10,000 of qualified education expenses

The LLC is subject to income limitations. For the 2024 tax year, the credit begins to phase out for single filers with MAGI above $69,000 and joint filers with MAGI above $138,0003.

Deductions for Education Expenses

Tuition and Fees Deduction

While this deduction expired at the end of 2020, it's worth mentioning for historical context and in case it's reinstated in the future. When available, it allowed taxpayers to deduct up to $4,000 in qualified education expenses from their taxable income.

Student Loan Interest Deduction

If you're repaying student loans, you may be eligible to deduct up to $2,500 of the interest paid on your loans each year. This deduction is taken as an adjustment to income, so you don't need to itemize to claim it.

Key points:

• Maximum deduction of $2,500 per year
• Available for both federal and private student loans
• Phases out for higher-income taxpayers

Tax-Advantaged Savings Plans

529 College Savings Plans

529 plans offer a tax-advantaged way to save for college expenses. While contributions are not deductible on your federal tax return, the earnings grow tax-free, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.

"529 plans have become even more versatile in recent years," notes Mark Kantrowitz, publisher and VP of research at Savingforcollege.com. "You can now use up to $10,000 from a 529 plan to repay student loans, and some apprenticeship costs are also covered."

Special Considerations for College Students

Dependency Status

One crucial aspect of tax planning for college students is determining dependency status. If you're a student, you need to know whether your parents can claim you as a dependent, as this affects both your and their tax situations.

"Students need to be clear about whether their parents are eligible to claim them as dependents," advises Tom O'Saben, director of tax content and government relations at the American Association of Tax Professionals. "Merely not claiming a dependent does not make that taxpayer independent."

Scholarship and Grant Income

Generally, scholarship and grant money used for tuition, fees, books, and required equipment is tax-free. However, any portion used for room and board, travel, or optional equipment is taxable.

Work-Study and Other Income

Income from work-study programs and other jobs is taxable. However, if your total income for the year is below the standard deduction ($13,850 for single filers in 2024), you may not owe any federal income tax.

Strategies for Maximizing Tax Benefits

Coordinate credits and deductions: You can't claim multiple education benefits for the same expenses. Coordinate your claims to maximize your overall benefit.

Time your expenses: Consider paying spring semester tuition in December to claim the expense in the current tax year if it will result in a larger credit.

Keep detailed records: Maintain receipts and documentation for all education-related expenses.

Consider state tax benefits: Many states offer additional tax benefits for college expenses or 529 plan contributions.

Plan for the future: If you're not eligible for education credits this year due to income limitations, consider strategies to lower your taxable income in future years.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Missing out on credits: Don't assume you're ineligible for education credits. Even if your parents claim you as a dependent, they may be able to claim these credits.

Overlooking expenses: Keep track of all qualified expenses, including required course materials and student activity fees.

Double-dipping: Remember, you can't claim a credit and a deduction for the same expense.

Misunderstanding 1098-T forms: These forms from your school may not include all qualified expenses. You may need to add expenses for required books and supplies.

The Importance of Professional Advice

Tax planning for college students can be complex, and the rules often change. "It's always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or use reputable tax software to ensure you're claiming all the benefits you're entitled to," advises Greene-Lewis.

Remember, tax laws can change, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult with a qualified tax professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.

Effective tax planning can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education. By understanding and leveraging available tax credits, deductions, and savings plans, college students and their families can maximize their tax benefits and make education more affordable.