Education Credits Calculator
Estimate your American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) or Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) for 2025 or 2024. Enter your qualified education expenses, modified adjusted gross income, and filing status to see which credit maximizes your tax savings.
Student 1
Student 1 — AOTC
| Gross Credit | $2,500 |
| Phase-Out Reduction | $0 |
| Net Credit | $2,500 |
| Refundable (40%) | $1,000 |
| Non-Refundable (60%) | $1,500 |
Totals
| Total Credits | $2,500 |
| Refundable | $1,000 |
| Non-Refundable | $1,500 |
Total Education Credits
$2,500
Refundable Amount
$1,000
Non-Refundable Amount
$1,500
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between AOTC and LLC?
The American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) offers up to $2,500 per eligible student and is 40% refundable, meaning you can receive up to $1,000 back even if you owe no tax. It applies only to the first four years of post-secondary education. The Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) offers up to $2,000 per tax return (not per student) and is entirely non-refundable. The LLC has no limit on the number of years claimed and covers a broader range of courses, including graduate programs and job-skill courses.
What are qualified education expenses?
For the AOTC, qualified expenses include tuition, required enrollment fees, and course materials such as books, supplies, and equipment needed for a course of study — even if not purchased from the school. For the LLC, qualified expenses are limited to tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance; the cost of books and supplies qualifies only if paid directly to the institution as a condition of enrollment.
Can I claim both credits?
You cannot claim both the AOTC and the LLC for the same student in the same tax year. However, if you have multiple students in your household, you may claim the AOTC for one eligible student and the LLC for a different student on the same return. Choose the credit that provides the greatest benefit for each individual student based on their eligibility and your income.
What if my MAGI exceeds the income limit?
Both credits phase out as your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) rises. For the AOTC, the phase-out range is $80,000–$90,000 for single filers and $160,000–$180,000 for married filing jointly. Above those thresholds, no AOTC is available. Taxpayers who file as married filing separately cannot claim the AOTC at all. The LLC phases out between $80,000–$90,000 (single) and $160,000–$180,000 (MFJ) for 2024; these amounts may be adjusted for inflation in subsequent years.