What is a 1098-T form?
The 1098-T form is used by educational institutions to report information about their students to the IRS as required by the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997. Institutions are required to submit the student’s name, address, social security number, and enrollment/academic status. Institutions must also report amounts paid toward qualified tuition and related expenses, as well as scholarships and grants. A 1098-T form must be provided to each applicable student. The form is informational only and serves to alert students that they may be eligible for federal income tax credits. It should not be considered as tax opinion or advice. There is no IRS requirement that you must claim an education tax credit. Claiming education tax benefits is a voluntary decision for those who may qualify.
Why did I receive a 1098-T form and what am I supposed to do with it?
By January 31st of each year, the University must provide a 1098-T form to all students who paid qualified tuition and related expenses during the previous calendar year. URI has contracted with a company called Heartland ECSI to issue our 1098-T forms. Receipt of the form does not indicate eligibility for tax benefits. NOTE: The University cannot provide tax advice. It is the responsibility of each taxpayer to determine eligibility for tax benefits and how to calculate them.
I didn’t receive a form this year. Why not?
There are a few reasons why a form may not have been generated for you. If the total of your grants, scholarships, and other educational assistance received and reported in Box 5 exceeds the amount paid toward qualified charges reported in Box 1, then a form will not be generated. If you were not enrolled this year, a form will not be generated. If you are an international student, and you do not have an SSN, a form will not be generated.
What educational expenses are considered as qualified tuition and related expenses?
Qualified tuition and related expenses include tuition, registration fees, student services fees, course fees, program fees, etc. Examples of non-qualified expenses include housing fees, meal plan fees, health services fees, acc/sick insurance fees, late payment fees, etc.
What other information do I need to claim the tax credit?
While it is a good starting point, the 1098-T, as designed and regulated by the IRS, does not contain all of the information needed to claim a tax credit. Some information must come from the student’s personal financial records of what was paid during the calendar year. Detailed account information for each semester is available to students online via e-campus.
What if the social security number on my form is incorrect?
Contact URI Enrollment Services at 401.874.9500. You will be asked to provide a copy of your social security card, or complete and submit Form W-9S with your correct social security number. We will then update your URI student record and revise your 1098-T form with Heartland ECSI.
How do I get a re-print of my 1098-T form?
If you did not receive a 1098-T form due to a change of address, or you misplaced the form, you can print a duplicate from the Heartland ECSI website. You will need your First and Last Name, Social Security Number, and Zip Code. Once logged in, you can see the status of your 1098-T statement, and if you click the ‘+’ symbol, you will be able to view and print all forms on file for you.
Where can I learn more about educational tax credits and deductions?
To learn more about the education tax credits and deductions, please visit the IRS website.
Or, visit the Heartland ECSI website.
What if I still have questions?
If you still have questions or concerns, these contact numbers may be helpful:
- IRS Tax Info (800) 829-1040
- Heartland ECSI (866) 428-1098
- URI Enrollment Services (401) 874-9500
Note: Please be advised that URI is prohibited from providing legal, tax, or accounting advice. Each taxpayer and his/her tax advisor are responsible for determining eligibility for and calculation of education tax credits and deductions.