2009 Tax Changes-Education Tax Credit

Per IRS Publication 17 - American opportunity credit - This new education tax credit (a modification of the Hope credit) is available for 2009 and 2010. The maximum credit per student is $2,500 (100% of the first $2,000 and 25% of the next $2,000 of qualified education expenses). The credit is available for the first 4 years of postsecondary education, and 40% of the credit is refundable for most taxpayers. The threshold at which this credit is reduced is higher than that for the Hope and lifetime learning credits. For 2009, the amount of your credit is gradually reduced (phased out) if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is between $80,000 and $90,000 ($160,000 and $180,000 if you file a joint return). You cannot claim a credit if your MAGI is $90,000 or more ($180,000 or more if you file a joint return).