Question about the FAFSA?

Question

Okay, I'm considered independant yet still need both of my parents' tax forms. I'm going into a medical profession and it's required as far as I know. Does anyone know why they need informatiion on my parents?

Answer 1

It probably has to do with your age being 21 which is the problem. I noticed it from your profile page. However, there is a questionaire by the government on the FAFSA form that determines independent student status. It includes marital status (married) and minor children with both can be independent status. My best guess is see if you are missing the questionaire or missed the questions to both. If all else fails, talk to the college or university itself and bring the birth certificates of both toddlers and your marriage license then tell them the problem you are having on the FAFSA form. Good luck!

Answer 2

Most likely how you define independent isn't how the government defines it. If you are independent (according to the Department of Education), you don't need your parents' info.

They set very strict guidelines because if they didn't, anyone could apply for aid and claim their parents didn't support them. Then the FAFSA would only include their income and, even if their parents made millions, it wouldn't count toward their EFC, and they'd get grants they don't need.

If you truly are independent, you'll have to prove it on paper. Call your school's financial aid office and talk to the counselor assigned to you (usually alphabetically by last name). They can help you with an appeal on your dependency status.

Answer 3

To see what contributions they can afford to make to your education. They need to be able to qualify you for grants. If your parents make too much, you won't qualify.

Answer 4

If you live on your own and have children, they should not need your parents.