Welp, got my first one... Nothing major, just stating that they think my claim of Lifetime Learning Credit deduction for 2012 isn't correct because they don't have a 1098-T nor do I, because the school didn't provide one.

I took a professional certification course that was 6 classes with the University. I have all of the receipts, course catalog, and certificate. Is it as easy as writing the letter explaining the circumstances and sending over copies of all of the paperwork? Should I mail or fax?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

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Posted by Jabstep

Member since Jul 2014

2130 posts

Posted on 11/1/14 at 2:54 pm to Lsut81

Is it just a notice? A notice is substantially different from an audit.

I would contact the school first, someone in financial aid will be able to help you. No reputable institution wouldn't prepare a 1098.

Secondly, I would review IRS publication 970. Be sure you received the lifetime learning credit (nonrefundable) as opposed to the american opportunity credit (refundable and subject to different rules). Based on your brief explanation, you likely would not qualify for the american opportunity credit. Also make sure your expenses are "qualified educational expenses." I would call the IRS right when they open and explain your situation, get the persons name and ID number, and see what they say assuming the letter didn't provide you with strict instructions. I would certainly advise you let your tax preparer handle the situation if the return was prepared by a CPAs office.

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Posted by Lsut81

Member since Jun 2005

80095 posts

Posted on 11/1/14 at 3:12 pm to Jabstep

quote:
Is it just a notice? A notice is substantially different from an audit.

I guess a notice.... CP2000

quote:
Be sure you received the lifetime learning credit (nonrefundable) as opposed to the american opportunity credit (refundable and subject to different rules).

Yeah, its in the Nonrefundable Education Credits section. The notice says "Your eligible education institution did not verify the amount claimed on your tax return in box 1 1098-t tuitions statement... Please provide signed explanation of the amounts paid to support the amounts claimed"

Like I said, this was a Professional Certification and I have receipts paid to the university... Don't know why they wouldn't verify the info.

I did my taxes myself, so no CPA to go to.

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Posted by Jcorye1

Tom Brady = GoAT

Member since Dec 2007

71339 posts

Posted on 11/1/14 at 3:27 pm to Lsut81

The institution should be able to give you a copy of it, and just forward that to the IRS so he can confirm it. You should be fine, that isn't a full blown audit.

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