FAFSA dependent status confusion - will my child's 2024 income count if they've been working for 2 years?

Unfortunately, your son will likely still be considered a dependent student for FAFSA purposes, even though he files his own taxes. The FAFSA has specific criteria for independent status that are different from tax filing status. Since he's not yet 24, not married, not a veteran, and doesn't have dependents of his own, he'll be considered your dependent for financial aid purposes. This means both your household income AND his 2024 income will be considered when calculating his Student Aid Index (SAI). But there's good news! You can explain on the FAFSA that he'll be quitting his job to attend school full-time, which significantly reduces his ability to contribute to educational expenses.

he could try getting a dependency override but its SUPER hard to get approved for one. my cousin tried and got denied even tho she hadn't lived at home for 3 yrs!!! the fafsa system is rigged against students who are basically independent but dont meet their stupid criteria

When I was applying, I waited until I was 24 just to avoid this whole mess. Is that an option for your son? The rules are RIDICULOUS and punish students whose parents can't or won't help with college expenses!

He's only 20 now, so waiting until 24 would mean delaying college for 4 more years. That seems like too long to wait when he's finally motivated to pursue education. I just don't understand why they count income that won't exist when he's actually in school!

Financial aid advisor here. Your son's situation is actually quite common. Here's what you need to know: 1. For 2025-2026 FAFSA, both your 2024 income and your son's 2024 income will initially count in the SAI calculation. 2. However, since he'll be quitting his job to attend school (significant income reduction), you should: - Complete and submit the FAFSA using the 2024 tax information as required - Immediately contact the financial aid office at each school he applies to - Request a "Professional Judgment Review" or "Income Adjustment Appeal" - Provide documentation of his resignation and loss of income 3. Each school has discretion to adjust the SAI calculation based on this change in circumstances. This is one of the most successful types of appeals because it's clearly documentable and represents a significant change in financial circumstances.

Yes, exactly - apply first, then appeal. Each school has their own forms and procedures for Professional Judgment reviews. Some call it an "Income Adjustment Appeal" or "Special Circumstances Form." Contact each school's financial aid office directly after submitting the FAFSA.

random question but what about if he just worked part time during school instead of quitting completely?? My daughter kept working 15-20 hrs a week during college and it didn't hurt her aid that much. Just wondering if that's an option to consider

One more thing to consider: Many nursing programs are extremely demanding academically, especially once clinical rotations begin. While working part-time is certainly possible, it might be challenging with a nursing curriculum. I'd recommend he speak with current nursing students at his prospective schools to get a realistic picture of workload before committing to continuing employment.

You all have been SO helpful! I'm going to: 1. Complete the FAFSA with our current information 2. Have my son request a reduced schedule at his current job if possible 3. File for Professional Judgment reviews at each school 4. Use that Claimyr service to speak with someone directly about our options It's still frustrating that the system doesn't automatically account for these situations, but at least there's a path forward. Thank you everyone!

As someone who just went through this process with my own child, I want to add that timing is really important with the Professional Judgment appeals. Don't wait until the last minute to submit them! Some schools have deadlines for these requests, and processing can take several weeks. Also, be prepared to provide documentation like a resignation letter, last pay stub, and a statement explaining the circumstances. The more thorough your documentation, the better your chances of getting the adjustment approved. Your son is lucky to have such a supportive parent advocating for him!