<p>Listen everyone…you can complete both the FAFSA and Profile using ESTIMATES to meet those finaid deadlines. THEN when you have the final numbers from your taxes, you amend the documents (FAFSA can be done online, Profile by hand and mailed to the schools). There is absolutely NO REASON why these financial aid forms cannot be submitted meeting the deadlines. Just make sure that your estimates are as close to real numbers as possible (using year to date numbers from your last pay stubs from 2008, and your last statements for interest and dividends). </p>
<p>The reality is that the schools have a deadline for a reason. At the same time, they KNOW that folks may not have the documentation to complete their taxes by the deadline. That is why BOTH the FAFSA and Profile have a place where you can mark that you have NOT yet completed your taxes…but will.</p>
<p>The only thing you need to know…any financial aid award you get based you YOUR estimates will be just that…estimated. Your award will not be finalized until the 2008 info is entered and the forms changed to reflect that you have FILED your taxes.</p>
<p>Don’t wait until April 15, however. Do those taxes ASAP.</p>