Be Independent for FAFSA Grants
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you secure the funding that you need to further your education and pursue your career goals. Determining whether or not you are dependent or independent can affect how much financial aid you receive from your school or the government. FAFSA forms determine how much assistance you can receive through grants, scholarships and student loans. Knowing be independent for FAFSA grants can affect your financial aid reward.
Instructions
1. File taxes independently after speaking with your parents. Make sure that they are not claiming you on their tax returns. Although this does not always help your FAFSA grant status, it may demonstrate your level of independence, especially if you have earned or unearned income.
2. Review the requirements created through United States Department of Education. They have created rigid criteria for financial aid consideration, including what income they consider, such as a parent's income and assets. According to the Department of Education, a student is considered a dependent unless he is age 24, married, has a dependent, is enrolled in a graduate program or is an orphan, an emancipated minor, homeless, or a veteran or there are other extenuating circumstances.
3. Demonstrate your case to your financial aid officer at the school you choose to attend. Only a financial aid officer may override the FAFSA results and change your status to independent. You must discuss why your parents and family provide no support and prove your level of independence. This course of action is called a professional judgment override. Though granted rarely, it can give you independent status. Gather your financial information, including rent, utility costs, bills or other proofs or documentation.
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