Learning Library Quick Answers Tax Planning

Can the education tax credits be used to reduce employment (FICA) taxes?


Answer: The education tax credits will only offset income taxes, but not employment taxes.....

Can the parent pay off the interest on a student loan and use it as a deduction?


Answer: The parents cannot take the deduction for interest on loans in the student's name even if they are making the payments. On....

Can you pay your child as an independent contractor, rather than an employee, and still qualify for the American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credits?


Answer: Yes, as long as they are treated like an independent contractor. The child could take the American Opportunity/Lifetime Le....

Do I pay FICA tax on my earnings from work-study jobs?


Answer: Under current law, students are not required to pay social security (FICA) tax on wages they earn in jobs provided by the ....

Do you have to give up the exemption to have the child use the American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credits?


Answer: On the parent's end, yes. If the parent's claim the exemption,they are the only ones that could claim the American Opportu....