I am the divorced mother of 2 children rapidly approaching college age. When my ex and I divorced many years ago, we each agreed to deduct one child on taxes. I am realizing now that this might have financial aid implications, since as the primary custodial household, my finances will be what is used in consideration on the FAFSA, etc. It sounds like it would make more sense for me to claim both children from my oldest child’s junior (?) year on forward so that our household reflects the true number of 3 on the FAFSA.
For those more familiar with the FAFSA process, am I correct with this assumption or could we each continue to claim one child? TIA!
It doesn’t matter who claims the child on their taxes. FAFSA only considers where the kids live, i.e., if a child has lived with you more than half of the time then your financial information is used on the FAFSA. Note that if you are remarried, your husband’s information will be used as well. Additionally, some schools require the CSS profile which usually requires your ex to provide his financial information.
(wince) ah that’s interesting… and honestly, something I didn’t even realize/think about. It’s still up for debate what contribution he’ll be making towards their college tuition, so that’s very “enlightening”.