Paying for higher education can be a significant expense, but there are ways to make it more manageable. One way to reduce the financial burden is by claiming education tax credits and deductions. To do this, students and their families need to obtain a 1098-T form from their educational institution. If you're a student at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), here's how you can get your 1098-T form in 5 easy steps.
What is a 1098-T Form?
Before we dive into the steps to obtain your 1098-T form, let's quickly explain what it is. A 1098-T form, also known as the Tuition Statement, is a document provided by educational institutions to students and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The form reports the amount of tuition and fees paid by the student during the tax year. This information is used to claim education tax credits and deductions, such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
To receive a 1098-T form from MCPHS, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. Generally, you must have been enrolled in a degree-granting program and have paid qualified tuition and fees during the tax year. You can check the MCPHS website or contact the Bursar's Office to confirm your eligibility.
Understanding Qualified Tuition and Fees
Qualified tuition and fees include amounts paid for:
- Tuition
- Fees
- Course materials
- Equipment
- Supplies
However, not all expenses qualify. For example, room and board, transportation, and personal expenses are not considered qualified tuition and fees.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
To obtain your 1098-T form, you'll need to provide some personal and academic information. Make sure you have the following:
- Your MCPHS student ID number
- Your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Your academic program and enrollment status
Why is My Social Security Number or ITIN Required?
Your Social Security number or ITIN is required by the IRS to report the tuition and fees paid on your behalf. This information is used to verify your identity and ensure that the 1098-T form is accurate.
Step 3: Access the MCPHS Online Portal
To obtain your 1098-T form, you'll need to access the MCPHS online portal. You can do this by:
- Visiting the MCPHS website and clicking on the "Student Portal" link
- Logging in with your MCPHS username and password
- Navigating to the "Financial Aid" or "Bursar's Office" section
Step 4: Download or Request Your 1098-T Form
Once you've accessed the online portal, you can:
- Download your 1098-T form directly from the website
- Request that a paper copy be mailed to you
Make sure to review your 1098-T form carefully for accuracy and completeness.
Step 5: Use Your 1098-T Form to Claim Education Tax Credits and Deductions
With your 1098-T form in hand, you can now claim education tax credits and deductions on your tax return. You'll need to report the qualified tuition and fees paid, as well as any scholarships or grants received. Consult with a tax professional or the IRS website for more information on how to claim these benefits.
By following these 5 easy steps, you can obtain your MCPHS 1098-T form and start claiming education tax credits and deductions. Remember to review your form carefully and consult with a tax professional if you have any questions or concerns.
We hope this article has been helpful in guiding you through the process of obtaining your MCPHS 1098-T form. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out to the MCPHS Bursar's Office.
Take Action Now!
- Share this article with fellow students who may need help obtaining their 1098-T form.
- Leave a comment below with any questions or feedback.
- Contact the MCPHS Bursar's Office for more information on the 1098-T form and education tax credits.
What is the deadline for receiving my 1098-T form?
+The deadline for receiving your 1098-T form is typically January 31st of each year.
Can I obtain a duplicate copy of my 1098-T form?
+Yes, you can obtain a duplicate copy of your 1098-T form by contacting the MCPHS Bursar's Office.
How do I report scholarships and grants on my tax return?
+You should report scholarships and grants as income on your tax return, but you may be able to exclude them from taxation if they are used for qualified education expenses.