Can I claim an American Opportunity, or Lifetime Learning tax credit or the Deduction for Higher Educational Expenses for qualified tuition and related expenses paid in advance of when the academic period begins?

Generally, the credit/deduction is available only for payments of qualified tuition and related expenses that cover an academic period beginning in the same calendar year in which the payment was made. An exception, however, allows the taxpayer to claim a tax credit/deduction for payment of qualified tuition and related expenses made during the tax year for the academic period January, February, and March of the following year. Consult your tax preparer/consultant for tax return preparation advice.