Lifetime Learning Credit
A tax credit of up to $2,000 a year for tuition, including graduate school and classes to improve job skills.
Apply on the official site ↗Goes to IRS.gov. Applying is free.
Who generally qualifies
Anyone paying for college or job-skills courses, under the income limits.
Exact income limits and rules are set by Internal Revenue Service and can change. Check the official site for current details.
How to apply
- Get Form 1098-T from the school.
- Claim the credit on Form 8863 with your tax return.
What to have ready
- Form 1098-T
- Tuition receipts
Common questions
- Does it cost anything to apply?
- No. Applying through the official site is free. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to apply for you.
- Do I have to pay it back?
- No. A tax break lowers what you owe. You don't pay it back.
- Who decides if I qualify?
- Internal Revenue Service makes the final decision. This page explains the program in general terms only.
- Where can I find current income limits and amounts?
- Income limits, benefit amounts and deadlines change, so check IRS.gov for the latest details.
Link checked October 22, 2026. BenefitSearch is not affiliated with Internal Revenue Service.