Close

Learning Center

Above-The-Line Education Deduction

On December 22, 2017, The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law. The information in this article predates the tax reform legislation and may not apply to tax returns starting in the 2018 tax year. You may wish to speak to your tax advisor about the latest tax law. This publication is provided for your convenience and does not constitute legal advice. This publication is protected by copyright.

Above-The-Line Education Deduction
Through 2016, Taxpayers are allowed an above-the-line deduction for qualified tuition and related expenses for the year, to the extent the expenses are in connection with enrollment at an institution of higher education during that tax year, or if those expenses are in connection with an academic term beginning during that tax year or during the first 3 months of the next tax year. 

The deduction is limited both by filing status and Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Unlike the other education tax incentives where the deduction is slowly phased out, this deduction is not allowed once the AGI limit is reached. Married individuals who file separately and taxpayers who are claimed as a dependent of another are not allowed to take this deduction. 


Filing Status
AGI Limit
Max Deduction
Joint
130,000
4,000
Joint
160,000
2,000
Others
65,000
4,000
Others
80,000
2,000


Since the expenses that qualify for this deduction are the same as those that qualify for the education credits, taxpayers may qualify for both and will be required to choose between the two. Each taxpayer's individual circumstances must be taken into consideration before making the most beneficial decision. This office can assist you in making an informed choice.

Have a Question About This Topic?

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Share this article...

NEVER MISS A STORY.

Sign up for our newsletters and get our articles delivered right to your inbox.

Back to Article List