UPDATE: We tried the suggestion to log out completely, clear browser cache, and log back in - and it worked! When my daughter logged back in and went to the Contributors section, there was a small icon in the corner that wasn't visible before that allowed her to add another contributor. She was able to send the invitation to my husband. Thank you everyone for your help and suggestions! For anyone else facing this issue, definitely try clearing your cache first before spending hours on the phone.

So glad to see this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend the "clear cache and log out completely" solution as the first troubleshooting step for FAFSA issues. The new system seems to have a lot of browser caching problems that prevent updated features from displaying properly. For anyone else reading this thread, here's what worked: 1) Log out of studentaid.gov completely, 2) Clear your browser cache (or try a different browser/incognito mode), 3) Log back in and check the Contributors section again. This simple fix has resolved the "missing Add Contributor button" issue for several families I've helped recently. Thanks for sharing your successful resolution - it'll definitely help other parents facing the same frustration!

UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for the helpful advice! I was able to get through to FSA using the Claimyr service (which worked exactly as described). The agent confirmed we should update rather than cancel our application, and they put notes in our file about the special circumstances. I've also contacted all three colleges she applied to, and they've been incredibly understanding. They're sending us their Special Circumstances forms, and two of them have even extended their deposit deadline for us given the situation. I still don't know what her final aid package will look like, but at least we're moving in the right direction now. Thank you all again for the guidance during this stressful time.

I'm so sorry for your loss and what you're going through with this FAFSA situation. As someone who's dealt with similar complexities, I wanted to add a few points that might help: Since you mentioned her older sister received a full ride due to their mother's disability status, make sure to specifically ask each financial aid office about "sibling consideration" policies. Some schools will take into account that multiple children from the same family are dealing with the same circumstances. Also, regarding the Social Security survivors benefits - these are typically reported as untaxed income on the FAFSA, but many schools will exclude them from their aid calculations during a professional judgment review since they're meant to replace lost parental support. One thing I learned the hard way: when you're gathering documentation for the Special Circumstances forms, include proof of ongoing expenses you're covering for her (medical insurance, school costs, etc.). This helps demonstrate the change in financial responsibility and can strengthen your case for aid adjustment. It sounds like you're on the right track now with getting through to FSA and contacting the schools directly. The financial aid offices really do want to help in situations like this - they just need the proper documentation to work with. Wishing you and your stepdaughter the best outcome!

my son did community college to and the PA grant paid ALL his tuiton!!! gud luck with yurs

As someone who just went through this process, I want to emphasize how important it is to not wait! I made the mistake of assuming FAFSA was enough and almost missed the PA grant deadline. The application really is straightforward once you get to it - just basic residency verification and a few questions about your school plans. One thing I learned is that PA gives priority to students who submit both FAFSA and the state grant application by the May 1st deadline, so earlier is definitely better. Also, keep copies of everything you submit - I had to resubmit some documents because their system glitched. With your low EFC/SAI, you're in a great position to get substantial aid. Don't let the confusing system discourage you from getting the money you deserve!

I work in our university's financial aid office, and we see this confusion often. International students are not eligible for FAFSA. Here's what you need to do: 1. Check if your schools require the CSS Profile (many private institutions do) 2. Look for international student financial aid forms on each university's website 3. Contact each school's financial aid office to ask about scholarships specifically for international students Regarding CSS Profile fee waivers - they're typically only available to U.S. students who qualified for an SAT fee waiver. However, some schools will waive the application fee if you demonstrate significant financial need. You would need to contact each school directly about this possibility.

Hey AstroAce! I went through this exact same confusion when I was applying as an international student from India. The whole FAFSA vs CSS Profile thing is so confusing at first! Just wanted to add that when you do fill out the CSS Profile, make sure you have all your financial documents ready in USD equivalents - they'll ask for your family's income converted to US dollars. Also, some schools have their own supplemental financial aid forms for international students that are separate from both FAFSA and CSS Profile, so definitely check each university's international student aid page. The deadlines for these forms can be different from regular application deadlines too, so keep an eye on that. Good luck with your applications!

Just to follow up on my earlier comment - I checked with our processing team, and dependency override requests are absolutely processed after FAFSA priority deadlines all the time. In fact, we're still processing some now for FAFSAs that were submitted months ago. The critical part is documenting that you submitted the request before the deadline and following up consistently. One more tip: In your email to the financial aid advisor, include your student ID number and FAFSA ID in the subject line (something like "Urgent: Dependency Override Status - Student ID: 123456"). This makes it much easier for them to look up your file quickly.

Hey Rajiv! I'm dealing with something similar right now - my school is also being super slow with processing my dependency override. What I've learned from going through this mess is that you absolutely need to create a paper trail ASAP. Since you don't have that verbal approval in writing, I'd suggest sending a follow-up email today that says something like "Hi [Advisor Name], I wanted to follow up on our meeting on [date] when you confirmed my dependency override was approved and told me everything was 'good to go.' I notice my student portal still shows dependent status - could you please provide an update on when this will be processed and confirm the approval in writing?" Also, if you can't get through by phone tomorrow, definitely go in person. Bring a folder with copies of ALL your dependency override documentation - every form, every piece of evidence you submitted. Sometimes they "lose" things or claim they never received stuff. Having your own copies shows you're organized and makes it harder for them to brush you off. You've got this! The squeaky wheel gets the grease with financial aid offices.