Do I have to live on my own to be considered an independent for federal student aid?

Question

I am turning 24 next year and I plan on applying for federal aid as an independent student because my parents make too much money for any aid.

I live at home and I am going to a community college. I plan on going to a 4 year college next year.

I don't have a job. My mom is helping me out with money while I go to school.

To qualify as an independent... Will I need to move out? Or get a job and pay for my own expenses before I apply as an independent on jan. 1st?

Can I get a part time job and pay for my own expensives but still live at home?

Where can I find this kind of information anyways?

Answer 1

The correct answer is..........when you complete the FAFSA, you will see several questions asking about your age, marital status, etc. If you answer yes to only one of them you are independent. You have to be 24 to be declared independent. If you are, the FAFSA will not ask about your parents financial matters and you can in fact, still live at home with NO bearing on your aid. However, try not to make too much money working, because it will have a negative affect on your aid eligibility, mainly Pell Grants.

Ask you financial aid office for more details.

Answer 2

first you cannot just apply as an independent student if you are not considered one just to get more aid. you have to be 25, married or in the military in order to be considered independent in most states. if your state indicates 24 can be independent, it will not matter where you live. even if you live with your parents you are considered independent because of your age. be sure that your state allows students aged 24 to be considered independent BEFORE you complete the form. again, you cannot just decide you want to keep your parents out of your financial aid process because they make too much money. the government expects families to assist their children with their education and if they can afford it, they should help. the more people who receive aid that do not need it, the less money available for those who really do. good luck!

Answer 3

No, you don't but I would suggest NOT including parent's information and do not let on you are living with them, or receiving any outside support. To be considered independent means having bills in your name, making over 10000 annually, and being over the age of 24. (Don't make too much more...there' a limit to their generousity if you make over 15000 it seems.) Therefore, I think you'll be okay.