FAFSA Guide Forum

[redtiger]

Hi. As we approach January 1 and the start of the financial aid season, I'm starting to think about the FAFSA form. I've never filled one out and have heard it can be quite confusing. Are there any guidebooks you recommend? Anything important to watch out for? Thanks.

[AlexanderSupertramp]

It's actually pretty easy. They tell you exactly which figure to use from which line of your tax return. For example- "Enter the figure in line 17b" and you plug it in. Doing the actual tax return is much more difficult.

[redtiger]

Ok, thanks.

[clarified_butter]

It is so easy. Just follow the questions step-by-step.

[AmandaPB]

I am super scared to fill out the FAFSA. I’ve never filled out tax returns. Don’t know if I should have, but I’ve only been paid in stipends that went through financial aid the past 4 years of college. I guess I need to file this year, but I have not a CLUE what I’m doing. I’m just a child!

[SA1928]

Yeah, it isn't bad! Just have your tax return paperwork in front of you and just enter the numbers from each line. Put your cursor inside the text box you are answering and on the right hand side, it tells you exactly what line to use depending on which form you have (like 1040, 1040a). If you get confused, you can always call in for help or speak with someone to guide you through it.

[rinkrat19]

Even filling out taxes is NOT HARD. I have a mortgage (makes it a bit more complicated) and I do my own taxes in about 25 minutes every year.

The FAFSA is set up so you barely have to be sentient to figure it out. Just read the directions and answer the questions.