You are not a citizen until you are sworn in. If you are denied because of failure to pass the English or the civics test, you will be automatically rescheduled within 90 days. If you are not approved for some other reason, you may be given time to overcome the problem.
For 2009, the American Opportunity Credit--which is a variation of the Hope Credit--will be allowed for 4 years. For years before and after the new credit is allowed, the Hope credit is supposed to be for 2 years.
Whatâs more, the new tax credit is available to more taxpayers than the Hope Credit. The full credit may be claimed by people with adjusted gross income (AGI) of up to $80,000 for single taxpayers and $160,000 for married taxpayers filing jointly. The credit is gradually reduced at higher income levels.