This might sound crazy, but have you tried accessing the site using a VPN? Sometimes regional server issues can cause problems like this.

Hey Luca! I actually had this exact same issue last month and was pulling my hair out. What finally worked for me was logging out completely, clearing ALL my browser data (not just cache/cookies but everything), then waiting about 30 minutes before logging back in. Apparently the FAFSA system sometimes gets "stuck" on your session data. Also, make sure you're not using any browser extensions that might interfere - I had to disable my password manager temporarily. If that doesn't work, definitely try the mobile app suggestion from Andre - that's been a lifesaver for a lot of people! Hang in there, you'll get through this! 💪

UPDATE: I tried all the browser tricks (clear cache, incognito mode, different device) with no luck. The SSN field would accept the number, but after saving and returning, it would be gone again with that box checked. I ended up using that Claimyr service someone mentioned to get through to FSA - got a callback in about 45 minutes instead of spending hours redialing. The agent confirmed it was a known database issue on their end. Apparently, there was a mismatch between how my husband's name was entered and his SSN record in their system (he goes by his middle name, but his SSN is under his first name). The agent manually overrode the error and fixed it in their system. They gave me a case number and told me to wait 48 hours before checking again. Just checked today and FINALLY his SSN is showing correctly and that box is unchecked! Thanks everyone for your help with this frustrating issue!

Great to see you got this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend documenting these types of system issues. The name mismatch issue you described is becoming more common with the new FAFSA - they've tightened up their identity verification processes, which is good for security but creates problems when people use different versions of their names on different documents. For anyone else dealing with similar issues, it's worth checking if there are any discrepancies between: - How your name appears on your SSN card - How it appears on your tax returns - How you entered it in the FAFSA Even something as simple as using "Bob" vs "Robert" or including/excluding a middle initial can trigger these validation errors. The system is much less forgiving than it used to be. Thanks for sharing the resolution - posts like this are invaluable for other families going through the same nightmare!

Update: I've contacted all five schools I applied to and it's been a mixed bag. Two have already sent me their special circumstances forms, one said they'll only review after I commit to attending (which seems unfair), and I'm still waiting to hear back from the other two. I used that Claimyr service to get through to one of the schools that wasn't answering and it actually worked! Got through to a financial aid counselor who was really helpful. I've started gathering all our documentation. This is a lot of work but hopefully worth it. Thanks everyone for your help! I'll update again when I hear back about any aid adjustments.

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad's diagnosis and your job situation - that's incredibly stressful to deal with while trying to figure out college finances. Just want to add that when you're writing your appeal letter to each school, be specific about the financial impact. Don't just say "we lost income" - give them actual numbers. Like "Parent A's income went from $X per year to $0 due to job loss on [date]" and "we anticipate $Y in out-of-pocket medical expenses for Parent B's treatment." Also, if your dad's illness might affect his ability to work or your family's long-term financial situation, mention that too. Schools can sometimes adjust aid for multiple years if the circumstances are ongoing, not just temporary. Good luck with everything - this process is overwhelming but it really can make a significant difference in your aid package!

Update: I spoke with the financial aid office today and requested their Professional Judgment forms. They're sending me a packet that includes sections for documenting the pension rollover and my current income. Thank you all SO much for your help and guidance. I feel much more confident now that I understand the process better, even though I know there's still a lot of paperwork ahead. I'll keep you posted on how it goes!

I'm so glad you were able to get the process started! Just wanted to add one more tip that really helped me when I went through a similar Professional Judgment review - make sure to write a detailed cover letter explaining your situation in your own words along with all the forms and documentation. The financial aid officers are human beings, and sometimes a personal explanation of how your circumstances have changed can really help them understand the full picture beyond just the numbers on paper. You've got this! Rooting for you and your son.

Just want to add - APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS EVEN AFTER YOU GRADUATE!! I found three different "teacher shortage" grants in my state that give $2000-$4000 per year for working in high-need schools. That money goes directly to paying down your loan principal. Also check if your district offers any loan repayment assistance - mine gives $1200/year as a retention bonus specifically for loan payments. Every bit helps!

Hey Yara! As someone who just went through this exact same situation last year, I totally understand the panic. Here's what I learned that might help: First, breathe! You're asking the right questions. With $67k in loans and a $46k starting salary, an income-driven plan is definitely your best bet initially. I started with REPAYE and my payments were around $320/month, which was much more manageable than the $800+ standard payment. For your situation, I'd actually recommend going straight for PSLF rather than Teacher Loan Forgiveness. Here's why: TLF only forgives up to $17,500 after 5 years, but PSLF forgives your ENTIRE remaining balance after 10 years of qualifying payments. With your loan amount, you'll likely save way more money with PSLF. The key things that helped me get started: - Applied for REPAYE immediately (lower payments than IBR in most cases) - Made sure my school qualified for PSLF before accepting the job - Submitted my first Employment Certification Form within 30 days of starting - Set up autopay for the small interest rate reduction Don't let the horror stories scare you - the recent PSLF improvements have made the program much more reliable. Just stay organized and follow the rules exactly. You've got this!