<p>My parents were divorced when I was about 2, however both of them still have custody over me (it's basically split because something went wrong with the divorce papers). My mother has raised me and been my financial supporter, my father has not paid any child support whatsoever. </p>
<p>So is he technically still my non-custodial parent ?
Do I fill out his information ?
Would giving his information make it less likely for me to get more financial aid ?
Or should I just call each individual college and tell them that I have no information about him whatsoever because in reality I don't. I haven't had any contact with him for 16 years.
I might have bits and pieces like name and date of birth but that's basically it.</p>
<p>Yes, he is you non custodial parent if you physically spend more time living with your mother.</p>
<p>NO, you do not fill out his information; he fills out his information.</p>
<p>No, you can not simply state that you have not had any contact. You must submit documented proof. Some schools will also ask for copies of the divorce decree.</p>
<p>What you’ll need to do is ask each college for a waiver of the requirement to submit non-custodial parent info. Explain that you have no information about your dad and that he’s been gone for years. Each college’s requirements are different, but they’ll tell you what they need.</p>
<p>In all likelihood, they’ll also require:</p>
<p>(1) a statement from your mom explaining the situation</p>
<p>(2) a statement from one or two other people (teacher, physician, guidance counselor, social worker, clergy person - just not a relative!) telling whatever they know about the situation.</p>
<p>Start by contacting each school and telling them you need a waiver. They’ll guide you through the process.</p>
<p>if you truly have had no contact or support since age 2, then you would be a good candidate to maybe successfully get a waiver. Your situation is what waivers are for. however, some schools may not still cooperate.</p>
<p>Ask your schools for the waiver forms. Line up clergy, teachers, maybe a long time neighbor to write/sign a letter stating that your dad hasn’t been in your life for 15 years…no contact, no support, etc.</p>
<p>Your mother has had no contact with him or any part of his family?</p>
<p>No she doesn’t. She cut off all ties after the divorce.</p>
<p>I don’t know if this makes a difference, but did your mom cut ties because of physical abuse? If so, then maybe that could also be part of the waiver request? I would think a school would understand if the mom cut all contact because of abuse.</p>