FAFSA parent signatures - do both parents need to complete sections if filing taxes jointly?

Both parents need to set up FSA IDs and sign the FAFSA. Just cuz u file taxes together doesnt mean only 1 parent signs. My kid's app got delayed last yr bc my husband didnt sign.

To clarify the parent requirements for the FAFSA: when parents file taxes jointly, only one parent needs to complete the parent information SECTION (financial details, etc.), but BOTH parents in the household must create their own FSA IDs and electronically sign the FAFSA before submission. The signatures are separate from completing the information. Think of it this way: - Parent 1 can enter all the financial information for both parents - But both Parent 1 and Parent 2 must individually sign the form Without both signatures, your FAFSA will be considered incomplete and will delay your son's financial aid processing.

my mom did everything on mine this yr and my dad just signed it took like 2 mins after she was done with all the tax stuff

A lot of folks get confused about this! To break it down: 1. For married parents filing jointly: ONE parent can enter ALL the financial info 2. BUT - BOTH parents must create separate FSA IDs 3. BOTH parents must sign the FAFSA 4. This applies even if only one parent handles the finances Missing a parent signature is one of the top reasons for FAFSA processing delays. Your child's SAI (Student Aid Index) calculation won't proceed until both parents have signed.

Trying to call the FAFSA help center about this exact issue was IMPOSSIBLE. I was on hold for 2+ hours before being disconnected. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual FSA agent who confirmed both parents have to sign even with joint taxes. Their video demo (https://youtu.be/TbC8dZQWYNQ) shows how it works. Saved me from a month-long processing delay for my daughter's application.

OK LISTEN UP - the FAFSA system does NOT care how you file taxes when it comes to signatures! I found this out the hard way. My husband and I file jointly but I handle all the financial stuff. I filled out EVERYTHING and then my daughter's application sat there for 6 WEEKS before we figured out my husband needed to sign too. The financial aid office at her school said they see this ALL THE TIME and it's so frustrating!! DON'T MAKE OUR MISTAKE!! Have both parents create FSA IDs and BOTH sign!!

fyi my son's friend's parents are divorced and they BOTH had to sign too even tho only one of them provides financial support. the FAFSA rules are so dumb sometimes

Update: Thanks everyone for your help! My husband created his FSA ID last night and was able to sign. The whole process took less than 10 minutes once I showed him where to go. Our son's FAFSA is now officially submitted with both parent signatures. Such a relief to have this done correctly!

Congrats on getting it figured out! This thread is super helpful - I'm bookmarking it for when I help my daughter with her FAFSA next year. The signature requirement definitely seems like one of those things that catches a lot of families off guard. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences!