FAFSA filing tips you can use now
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is the key first step in securing college student financial aid.Most students are eligible for some form of financial aid.Thus,accuratelycompleting the FAFSA is very important. Here are some tips to help you through the FAFSA filing process.
File early
The U.S. Department of Education changed the opening date for filing the FAFSA. For the 2017–18 year, you can fill out the formnow through June 30, 2018. This change gives students earlier filing access.It also likely decreases the need for income updates later.
Most colleges and universities use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for student aid. So you may gain access to funds with early deadlines. The earlier deadline is also a benefit in case schools award aid on a first come, first served basis. The sooner you complete your formthe greater your chances of being eligible for more financial aid.
File online
The fastest way to complete the FAFSA is via the web. You can still complete a PDF version or submit a paper copy by mail. Online applications are usually more accurate and processed faster. Because the other two methods involve mailing a paper form for processing, it could mean weeks before any errors are caught and months before they are corrected. This could cause your child to miss out on aid he may be qualified to receive.
Check your work
Carefully read all questions on the FAFSA form and answer them completely. Do not leave any blank fields — enter ‘0’ or ‘not applicable’ on questions that do not apply.
Make sure your application has the right federal school code for every school you’ve applied to.
Be sure to e-sign your form when you file an electronic copy. If you file a paper copy, you’ll still need to sign and date your form. Something this minor could mean a long delay before your application is approved and your financial aid package is completed.Again, you could be missing out on crucial aid if you’re not careful when completing the form.
Check with your local community college or financial institution. They may offer free help to complete and submit your FAFSA.
Article provided by Local Government Federal Credit Union.