Sole proprietor - can I take Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) AND deduct my tuition as a business expense?

[jaxob]

I am a sole proprietor working in data science / computer science. I am doing a computer science masters program that "maintains or improves skills needed in my present work" and which does NOT "qualify me for a new trade."

I qualify for the Lifetime Learning Credit; I already used up my American Opportunity Tax Credit.

Can I BOTH get the Lifetime Learning Credit AND deduct the education as a business expense? The tuition paid was greater than $10k + my small business income. ($10k is the amount of tuition paid that results in the full $2000 Lifetime Learning Credit).

[Bsch4477]

No. You can’t claim both. Choose the one that gives you the better benefit.