So my biological parents are divorced and I live the majority of the time with my mother and stepdad. The thing is, my mom and my stepdad never officially got married. I’m wondering how to deal with this on the FAFSA? Since they’re not actually married, it doesn’t seem like I can put him down as a stepparent, but it seems dishonest to leave him off entirely since he’s part of the household and earns an income that helps support us. On the Common App I listed him as a stepparent because I wasn’t really thinking about the legal issues and for all intents and purposes he is my stepdad, but now I’m kind of worried. I just want to accurately represent my family’s financial status in a legal, legitimate way. Any thoughts?
Legally, he’s not included. Do they file taxes together?
No, they file taxes separately.
You would only have to include him if they live in a common-law state and they are considered married per common law. Otherwise, you don’t include him … don’t worry, you are not being dishonest. When it comes to FAFSA, some win & some lose. You are on the winning side on this one. However, do NOT include him (or any of his kids, if they live with you) in the household size. And if he pays child support or alimony, your mom won’t include that on the FAFSA (since he is paying, not her, and his info is not included).
If you are selected for verification due to low income of mom, you’ll just provide the requested information when the college contacts you.