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Lower Columbia College students and families who had tuition and other college-related expenses may be eligible to claim the American Opportunity Tax Credit (formerly called Hope Credit), when they prepare their federal income tax return.

IRS Tax Notice

American Opportunity replaces a similar tax credit provision called the Hope Credit. The new credit of up $2,500 for tuition and eligible college expenses is higher than under the Hope provision. In addition, tax filers may now claim expenses incurred during the first four years of their postsecondary education rather than only the first two.

Depending on individual circumstances, the American Opportunity Tax Credit may not be the most advantageous tax option for all families with higher education expenses.

More information is available at lowercolumbia.edu/tax-credit.