Avoiding Common Errors

If you complete Form 8863, make sure you have entered the names, SSNs and education expense amounts correctly. Check that you have not claimed more than one tax benefit for the same taxpayer, or taken a credit or deduction for expenses paid with a tax-free benefit like a scholarship.

On the intake and interview sheet, make sure that Part IV is checked to indicate that the taxpayer had education expenses. Note anything unusual that the quality reviewer may need to know when reviewing this part of the tax return. For example, you would note if some expenses were paid with a nontaxable scholarship.