<p>Since you need to have your (or your parents) 2012 income tax returns to apply, how can anyone complete their application already? W2's aren't even received until Jan 31. I'm confused on how everyone is applying already.</p>
<p>If I remember correctly, use last years taxes as an estimate and then when this years taxes come in you can update your information. I also think fasfa can link directly to your tax returns as an option.</p>
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This option is called IRS Data Retrieval Tool. In last year (FAFSA 2012-2013), it was available 2 weeks after your (your parent & you) federal income tax returns were electronically filed.</p>
<p>If your and your parents tax situation is relatively simple, you can make good estimates based on the last pay stubs of the year and the last bank statements of the year. That would be closer than simply using 2011 info as estimate, especially if anyone got raises, was unemployed for part the year etc.</p>