Do I need to add both parents to FAFSA?
When it comes to filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), one of the most common questions among students and parents is whether both parents should be included in the application process. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the student’s marital status, the parents’ marital status, and the student’s dependency status.
Understanding Dependency Status
The first thing to consider is the student’s dependency status. Generally, students are considered dependent on their parents for financial aid purposes if they are under the age of 24, unmarried, and do not have children or a spouse. If a student meets these criteria, they must provide information about both parents on the FAFSA, regardless of their parents’ marital status.
Marital Status of the Parents
If the student is considered dependent, the next factor to consider is the marital status of the parents. If both parents are married to each other, they must both be included on the FAFSA. However, if the parents are separated, divorced, or have never been married, the process becomes a bit more complex.
Separated or Divorced Parents
If the parents are separated or divorced, the student must provide information about the parent with whom they lived the most during the past year. If the student lived with both parents equally, they can choose which parent to list on the FAFSA. In this case, it is usually best to list the parent who provided the most financial support or has the highest income.
Unmarried or Never-Married Parents
If one or both parents are unmarried or have never been married, the student must still provide information about both parents on the FAFSA. This includes situations where one parent is deceased, as the student is still considered dependent on the surviving parent.
Special Circumstances
There are some special circumstances where a student may not be required to include both parents on the FAFSA. For example, if the student is an emancipated minor, a ward of the court, or has been determined to be an independent student by a financial aid administrator, they may be able to exclude one or both parents from the application process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not a student needs to add both parents to FAFSA depends on their dependency status, the parents’ marital status, and any special circumstances. It is essential to carefully review the FAFSA instructions and consider all relevant factors to ensure that the application is accurate and complete. If you are unsure about how to proceed, consulting with a financial aid advisor or counselor can provide valuable guidance throughout the process.
