Grandparent Tuition Senior Bonus Calculator
For 65+ grandparents paying grandkids' college.
The short answer: At the numbers below, your own senior bonus is $12,000 — $2,640 back at 22% ($102 per paycheck). Tuition credits mostly belong to the student/parents — see the fork below.
Must be 65+ to qualify
Modified Adjusted Gross Income
Senior Bonus Deduction
$12,000
✅ You qualify for the full deduction
⚠️ This calculator provides estimates for informational and educational purposes only. It is not tax advice. Results are based on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and IRS Schedule 1-A. Consult a qualified tax professional for your specific situation.
Who Claims Education Benefits
The American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credits follow the student's dependency, not who pays. Paying grandparents keep their own $6,000 bonus; the credit usually goes to the parents claiming the student.
- • You pay tuition → you don't automatically get the credit
- • Your $6,000×2 senior bonus → yours regardless
- • 529 contributions: state income-tax deductions in many states
Worked Example
MFJ grandparents, $130,000 MAGI.
- • Deduction $12,000; savings $2,640 at 22%
Frequently Asked Questions
If I pay my grandchild's tuition, do I get a tax credit?
Generally no — education credits follow the person claiming the student as a dependent. Your senior bonus is unaffected either way.
What about 529 contributions I make?
Many states give an income-tax deduction for 529 contributions — which also raises your itemized/529 SALT picture.