Hi,
Are there certain colleges that only look at your W2 and not your investments.
You are expected to accurately report whatever is requested. Both FAFSA and Profile request the value of your investments (that are not qualified retirement plans) on the day you submit the forms.
Income for FAFSA includes income listed on your tax return (like W2 income from working, self employment income, unemployment benefits, unearned income), and also some untaxed income like child support, 401k contributions.
And then you are also supposed to report assets like checking, savings balances and investments (bonds, stocks, education savings accounts, real estate property other than primary residence), if asked for it.
How low is your income?
Is your family incime lower than $50,000 a year? Can your parents file a 1040A, OR is anyone eligible for a means tested benefit OR is a parent a delicate worker?
For Profile schools…the answer is NO. You will need to reoort your income and all assets including value of investments.
Why are you asking?