<p>I truly apologize if this has been discussed, but I am very new to FinAid and need some advice.</p>
<p>I am independent and have been working all year so my tax forms show that I had an income of $35K, however, when I transfer to a university, I do not plan on working. So, my income will obviously be small to nothing.</p>
<p>How would I fill out the financial aid application to reflect this? If they go on previous year's income, I will be out of luck, no?</p>
<p>Make sure you meet the criteria for being independent (generally, born before 1-1-1983, or married, or a grad student, or a veteran). Just being on your own and working doesn't cut it.</p>
<p>You use your actual '05 numbers for the '06/'07 FAFSA, if you have them. I don't think the $35K will hurt you too much-- try the financial aid calculator at FinAid to see what you're looking at.</p>
<p>I think there's also a place to estimate this year's income-- and you might want to include a note to the FAO of the colleges your considering explaining that your '06 income will be considerably less than '05.</p>