<p>What balance number do you use for a Checking account if a check hasn't been cashed yet. The balance you show in your check registar, or the banks balance of that day.</p>
<p>We sent out the second semester bill for D1 a few days ago (due 1/16). Its over $20,000. I know last time the school did not cash right away, took a few weeks. After it clears the account goes down to almost nothing again. I called the bank and it is still giving the balance with the amount added in.</p>
<p>I am trying to fill out D2's FASFA this weekend, I still have time for D1. Unfortunately last year we did not qualify but this year with 2 in, hopefully things will change. Thanks -</p>
<p>I'm going to get slammed on this but when I fill out the FAFSA I use a daily average. Generally the same $$ goes into the account each month and close to the same $$ go out each month, so I took the normal monthly inflow and divided it by 30. I use that number when I fill out the FAFSA for the checking account balance. If you have an interest bearing money market account that you actually keep significant dollars in day to day, this probably won't work for you.</p>
<p>thanks momofthreeboys, We keep a separate savings/checking account for college payments, so only the tuition/books/expenses come out of the savings and we put into checking to pay. That's the account I am concerned with. When we made the second semester payment, the account dropped way down. Our house bills come out of our other account, and that's pretty much the same every month, like you the same $$ goes in each month and comes out. Thanks for your help. Maybe someone out there has some advice. -</p>
<p>I'd use the amount showing on your check register. That way you have a record of what you showed as your balance on the day you filed, in case it's ever questioned.</p>
<p>The actual balance will be different, due to check clearing time and mail times, but I think using the register is reasonable, and would suffice if asked for documentation.</p>
<p>As an FAO, I would concur with the above posts...use the register as yoru guide, as long as the register is accurate (added in case someone out there in internet land believes they can add an entry that isn't legit).</p>