Does it matter if student or contributor signs FAFSA form first? Timing issue!

it doesnt matter who signs first! both just need 2 sign before its considered complete. but make sure u both use ur own FSA IDs when signing dont share those

Technically, either can sign first, but I've found it's usually smoother if the student signs first and then the contributor. This way the student initiates the process and the contributor completes it. Just make sure both of you have your own FSA IDs set up properly - that's the part that trips up most people. Each person needs their own email address and phone number linked to their FSA ID.

To give you a complete answer: either person can sign first, but there are some practical considerations: 1. After one person signs, the other person has 14 days to sign before the signature expires 2. The application isn't considered complete until all required signatures are in place 3. Your priority deadline is the date by which all signatures must be complete Also, make sure you're both using the correct FSA ID credentials. Each person needs their own FSA ID linked to their own email/phone. Using the wrong FSA ID is one of the most common errors and can create verification headaches later.

wait do both ppl need 2 sign at the same time?? i thought i could just sign mine whenever and then my mom could sign later when shes not at work??? now im stressed cuz our deadline is next friday!!!!

From my experience with my three kids' FAFSAs, the order doesn't technically matter, but I always had my kids sign first and then I signed last. What DOES matter is that once the first person signs, the second person has a limited time window to complete their signature before the first signature expires (I think it's 14 days but double-check that). More importantly - make absolutely sure both of you have your FSA IDs fully set up and verified BEFORE you start the signature process. Nothing is more frustrating than getting to the signature page only to realize someone's FSA ID isn't working!

While everyone's right that the order doesn't technically matter, I've found that calling the Federal Student Aid helpline directly can save so much confusion with these FAFSA questions. I was having similar signature issues plus questions about my niece's dependency status, and I used Claimyr to get through to an agent quickly instead of waiting on hold forever. Their service at claimyr.com saved me hours of frustration, and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/TbC8dZQWYNQ The agent I spoke with confirmed either person can sign first, but recommended students sign first for simpler tracking on their end.

Lol am I the only one who didn't even know contributors had to sign? I just finished my freshman year and realized I messed up my first FAFSA because my dad never signed it! No wonder my financial aid was delayed. Don't be like me 😂

The order doesn't matter BUT the real problem is the FSA ID system itself!!! My son and I had to try FIVE TIMES to get our FSA IDs working properly. The verification system kept timing out. Then we finally got to the signature part and realized we only had 14 days between signatures. The whole system needs an overhaul if you ask me.

Just to add one more important detail: For the 2025-2026 FAFSA, remember that whoever is providing contributor information (usually a parent) will need to have their own FSA ID fully set up and linked to their own Social Security Number. This is especially important with the new FAFSA simplification changes. While the signature order doesn't impact the processing, having all the proper documentation and FSA IDs ready before you begin will make the process much smoother. Also remember that your SAI (Student Aid Index, formerly EFC) calculation will be based on this information.

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who went through this exact situation last year! The signature order truly doesn't matter - I was the contributor for my nephew and I signed first while he was still at school, then he signed a few days later when he had time. What saved us was setting up a shared calendar reminder for the 14-day signature window so we didn't accidentally let it expire. Also, pro tip: after both signatures are complete, you'll get email confirmations to both the student and contributor email addresses, so you'll know for sure when the FAFSA is fully submitted. Good luck with your niece's application!