<p>I'm working with a student in my program who has been getting unclear information from our somewhat uneven FA department, so I'm wondering if some of you experts could help.</p>
<p>The young woman grew up with mom and step-dad; dad is out of picture and there is minimal contact. Mom died when girl was just short of 17; she was ward of state for almost a year, then step-dad was named guardian. (she is now a soph in college.)</p>
<p>School switched her dependency status back and forth, but seems to have it on Dependent. Has implied that it has to be because step-dad claims her on taxes. </p>
<p>My questions:
1) if she can say yes to being a ward of state and having a legal guardian in the past, doesn't that automatically make her independent?</p>
<p>2) If that were the case, her step-dad could still claim her on taxes, correct?</p>
<p>3) If independent, besides her very low earnings, what would she have to list on FAFSA as far as step-dad's support?</p>
<p>Any info would be greatly appreciated. I will of course call FA tomorrow, but as I said, I think they may be botching this one, and the more accurate info I have, the more chance I have of clarifying this situation for the student.</p>
<p>Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>If she was a ward of the court for even a single day after the age of 13, she is automatically independent for all time. </p>
<p>Her step father can still claim her on her taxes as far as financial aid is concerned. If the IRS allows him to claim her, he can (without jeopardizing her aid in any way).</p>
<p>She is required to report any money her stepfather pays on her behalf … that is in HER name. For example, if she has a lease in her name, a charge card in her name, a cell phone bill her her name, etc that he pays, that is “other income.” If he paid her tuition (not as a loan, but as a gift), that is other income.</p>
<p>Some aid offices will adjust some of the budget components for independent students who are supported by their parents. The regulations do allow for adjustments based on individual situations. However, if they plan to make some sort of adjustments, they often will have the student fill out a budget form or something similar that explains how they live/who pays for things/etc.</p>
<p>Thanks, Kelsmom–I had read the indepedent status rules that way–that she was automatically so. I’ll need to read up more and call them tomorrow–she and step-dad are taking out mucho loans; he can’t keep doing so as he has three younger kids who are his to send to bring up and send to college eventually. He’s been great to her, but is really being stretched thin. I appreciate all your input (I wish you worked in our FA office!)</p>