How much aid can I get realistically?

<p>Re social security, my H retired when my son was in 5th grade. Beforehand, I was not aware that my son would receive monthly payments. When I was told, I said that we would put it away for college. I was definitely told that I could NOT put his payments into a college savings account for him. Maybe I was given incorrect information but if so, it is understandable why the parents used the money for living expenses, as that is what I was told to do. I do remember that I had to file forms yearly answering whether any money remained and what had been done with it. So, I used his money for groceries, classes, and clothes, etc. for his benefit, and we put our money into the college account. At the time and even more now, it seemed like a stupid regulation. Now, I am wondering if I was given incorrect information.</p>

<p>Lots…the point is…you put money into an account for college for your kiddo. It doesn’t sound like this other family did so.</p>

<p>There is an amount for one child, and then a maximum amount for all children. Basically, if one child gets about $1000 and a second child about $800, that total amount is divided among all children. In this case of 3 kids, each would get about $600/mo, but when the older twins drop off, the younger child gets $1000. The spouse can get a ‘caregiver’ amount too if she/he isn’t eligible for his/her own benefits. And there is a family max. And it’s all pretty complicated, especially if there are kids from multiple families all sharing the money.</p>

<p>OP’s father isn’t trying to take her money. He’s supporting the family. He’s promised to pay for college, although there is no requirement that he do so.</p>

<p>@thumper1 I have a few schools I know could give me a lot in merit aid. But Columbia is my first choice and I’d be upset to get in and have to decline because of money issues. It looks like that could very well happen though.</p>