Hope Scholarship Credit
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What is it?The Hope Scholarship is not a "scholarship" but a tax credit available to eligible students during their first two years of post-secondary education. The tax credit covers 100% of the first $1,000 of tuition and fees (not books, room and board or other living expenses) and 50% of the second $1,000 ($500) during the qualified period. The credit is non-refundable. The amount of the credit is reduced by other grant and scholarship aid received. |
Which students are eligible?A student is eligible if he/she is enrolled in a degree, certificate or recognized education credential program. This includes university, community college, and vocational coursework as long as the student is enrolled at least half-time. |
When is it effective?This tax credit takes effect for tuition and fees paid after December 31, 1997 and for education provided in academic periods beginning after that date. |
Who qualifies?The taxpayer must file a tax return and owe taxes to claim the credit. The taxpayer must claim the student as a dependent and have an Adjusted Gross Income(AGI) of up to $40,000 for a single taxpayer ($80,000 married). The student may claim the credit if not claimed as a dependent by another taxpayer. Also, the student must not have been convicted of a Federal or State felony drug offense before the end of the tax year in which the academic period ends. |
How do I get the required information?The way in which the required information will be sent to you and the IRS is yet to be determined. The institution will be required to provide the following:
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Where can I learn more about these programs?More information about this program (and other new tax credit programs including the Lifetime Learning Credit) can be obtained by calling the IRS at 1-800-TAX-1040 or at the following web sites: http://www.nasfaa.org/static/general/public/GrevHopeCC111698.html http://www.irs.ustreas.gov/hot/tax-law.html |