<p>You may have some success by asking the financial aid office to complete what is called an "Estimated Year" review.</p>
<p>FAOs have the option, by using professional judgement, to look at the 2005 income instead of the 2004 income on a case-by-case basis, especially if there is a loss of income, or some other dramatic change in a student's/family's circumstance. This is only done on an appeal basis, and different colleges will have different standards as to what qualifies for extenuating circumstances.</p>
<p>Still it is worth a try.</p>
<p>Be aware that if a college authorizes this, they may ask later (between Fall and Spring semesters) for your 2005 tax return to confirm your estimates and if the numbers are different than your original estimate they may feel free to take money back from you.</p>
<p>So the key here is estimate well, and follow through if things change.</p>