Hey guys and girls, I had a question about the CSS Profile and FAFSA. Most colleges have extremely early deadlines and I’m afraid I won’t be able to fill out the FAFSA and CSS Profile by Feb 1st. Should I just fill out the FAFSA and CSS Profile now with estimates then make corrections? Along the same line of thinking, should I send my parent’s 2013 W-2’s and tax returns now just to be sure they have something then send the 2014 ones in later?
Thanks
Yes, fill out both now with estimates. Do not submit any additional tax paperwork until the school asks you to do so, or is listed as a requirement on their website.
@kgos16 Thanks for the info. Where should the estimates come from? Our 2013 tax returns?
Your parents’ last pay stubs for 2014 have YTD totals on them. Start there and add in any interest/dividend or other income. Subtract out any pre-tax contributions such as for medical/dental insurance and 401k contributions to get AGI. Any pre-tax 401k contributions, however, have to be entered in the question that asks about them. Then compare to the 2013 numbers and see if the estimate makes sense. Your parents should have a general idea whether their income increased or decreased in 2014 and by how much.
I have a question about the CSS profile, am I supposed to fill that out for schools I haven’t been accepted too? Also, can schools see what other schools you are applying too through the CSS? Thanks!
nosyla, you should start your own thread with your questions.
Ok so for sure I should just fill out the FAFSA and Profile now and then make corrections? Will this hurt my chance of receiving aid?
Thanks