Don\u2019t leave education tax money on the table.
Estimate the American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credits from tuition paid and income.
Run the numbers.
Enter filing status, income, and tuition paid — see which education credit wins.
ESTIMATED TAX BENEFIT
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AOTC ESTIMATE—American OpportunityLLC ESTIMATE—Lifetime LearningREFUNDABLE PART—paid even if you owe $0
The breakdown
One credit per student
You can't claim both credits for the same student in the same year — claim the larger one.
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American Opportunity Credit (2025 figures): up to $2,500 — 100% of the first $2,000 of qualified expenses plus 25% of the next $2,000. Up to 40% ($1,000) is refundable. Only for undergrads enrolled at least half-time, first 4 years. Lifetime Learning Credit: 20% of up to $10,000 (max $2,000), nonrefundable, no half-time requirement. Both phase out over MAGI $80k–$90k single / $160k–$180k joint (2025). These are estimates — 2026 figures aren't final.
These education tools provide estimates and planning help for general purposes only — not academic, financial, tax, or legal advice. Verify important decisions with your school, the IRS, or a qualified professional. Tools are provided as-is, without warranties. Read the full disclaimer. Tax figures are estimates based on 2025 IRS rules; 2026 figures are not finalized — confirm with the IRS or a tax professional before filing.