That's awesome that it worked out for you! For anyone else reading this thread who might be dealing with similar issues, I'd recommend keeping a few things in mind: 1) Make sure you have all your tax documents ready before starting, 2) Don't try to rush through it - the system can be glitchy if you move too fast between sections, and 3) If you run into technical issues, try clearing your browser cache or switching browsers entirely. The new FAFSA definitely has its quirks but once you get through it, the process is actually pretty streamlined compared to the old paper forms!

As someone who just went through this process last month, I can confirm that the new FAFSA system is definitely confusing at first! The key thing to remember is that it's designed to be more secure now - each contributor (you and your spouse) needs to sign in separately with their own FSA ID for their tax information to be pulled. One thing I'd add to the great advice already given here is to make sure both of your FSA IDs are linked to the correct Social Security numbers and that your contact information is up to date. Also, if either of you filed taxes jointly, the system might take a bit longer to sort out whose information is whose, so don't be alarmed if there's a slight delay. The whole process is much smoother once you understand how it works!

I went through this exact nightmare last year and it took 6 weeks to resolve! What finally worked for me was getting a letter from THREE different sources all at once: my former high school counselor, a social worker, AND my employer confirming my work history and self-support. I also had to provide bank statements showing consistent deposits and rent payments going back 18 months. The key was proving a PATTERN of independence, not just current status. Don't give up - once it's approved, you'll likely get significant aid since you won't have parental income counted against you. The verification hell is worth it in the end!

I'm going through this exact same verification nightmare right now! Reading through all these responses has been so helpful - I had no idea about the "comprehensive verification review" option or that schools could call FAFSA directly on our behalf. I've been stuck in the same cycle for 3 weeks where I fix one thing and then they find something else wrong the next day. It's incredibly frustrating when you're truly independent and just trying to get the aid you're entitled to. I'm definitely going to try the approach of bundling ALL my documentation together with a cover sheet and getting my financial aid office involved. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it's reassuring to know I'm not alone in this bureaucratic maze!

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who was in a similar situation last month! I was super nervous about adding schools after my FAFSA was already processed, but I ended up adding 3 additional schools and it was completely seamless. My SAI stayed exactly the same, and the schools received my information within about 4 days. The key thing I learned is that adding schools is just sending your already-processed data to more recipients - it doesn't change or reprocess any of your financial information. Good luck with your applications!

I was in the exact same panic mode last week! Added 4 schools to my FAFSA after it was already processed and honestly it couldn't have been easier. Logged in, clicked "Make FAFSA Corrections," added my school codes, and submitted. My SAI didn't change at all and the schools showed up as "sent" within 2-3 days. The federal loan freeze thing had me spooked too but like others have said, that's totally separate from FAFSA processing. Don't stress - you've got this! The system is designed for students to add schools right up until decision deadlines.

Great decision, Kelsey! You're being smart about this. Just wanted to add - when you're filling out the FAFSA, double-check that you're using the 2025-2026 form (not the 2024-2025 one) since it sounds like you're applying for fall 2025 enrollment. The forms look very similar but using the wrong year's form is a common mistake that can really delay your aid processing. Also, keep copies of everything you submit - it'll make things so much easier if you need to reference anything later or if any schools have questions about your application.

Hey Kelsey! I just went through this exact same process last year and wanted to share something that really helped me. After you submit your FAFSA with all your schools listed, create a simple spreadsheet to track each school's financial aid deadlines and requirements. Some schools have additional forms beyond just the FAFSA (like CSS Profile or their own institutional aid applications) and the deadlines can vary wildly between schools. I almost missed a $5,000 scholarship opportunity because I didn't realize one of my schools had a separate application due in February. Having everything organized in one place made it so much easier to stay on top of all the different requirements and deadlines!

I'm dealing with a similar situation and this thread has been incredibly helpful! My mom had to take early retirement due to health issues, and we withdrew about $25,000 from her 401k to cover medical expenses. Our SAI came back at 31,000 which seems impossible given our actual monthly income. Reading through these responses, it sounds like the Professional Judgment review is definitely the way to go. I had no idea that one-time retirement withdrawals could be appealed - the FAFSA system really doesn't account for emergency situations like medical bills or necessary home repairs. Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences, especially the financial aid professional who explained the process so clearly!

I'm new to this community but going through the exact same nightmare right now! My husband and I are both teachers and had to withdraw $15,000 from our IRA last year when our daughter needed emergency surgery. Our SAI came back at 28,500 which is absolutely insane considering we make less than $80k combined. Reading through all these responses has given me so much hope - I had no idea about the Professional Judgment review option. It's really reassuring to see that other families are dealing with similar issues and that there are actual solutions. The FAFSA system seems completely broken when it comes to understanding real-life financial situations like medical emergencies or necessary repairs. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and advice - I'm definitely going to contact our daughter's schools about appealing this!