Parents in the process of getting divorced

<p>My dad moved out of my mom's house this year in June. This has been very difficult, and as the year comes to an end, my parents are in the final stages of divorce. The thing is, the divorce won't be finalized until January, 2010. I am not sure what all of this means to financial aid. I live with my dad because it is closer to the community college I attend, but I am in no means estranged from either of my parents. I don't want to bother my parents with these questions, as my education is my responsibility, but I want to make sure I don't file incorrectly. I believe my parents will be filing seperate tax returns, and they don't have any assets. My question is, will I use both parents for 2010-11 fafsa? Or would I use my father, as I live with him?</p>

<p>Your dad likely can file his taxes as head of household, and since you live with him, he is your custodial parent for FAFSA.</p>

<p>[Head</a> of Household Filing Status](<a href=“http://taxes.about.com/b/2006/03/31/head-of-household-filing-status.htm]Head”>Can You File as Head of Household for Your Taxes?)</p>

<p>I’m sorry you’re going through this.</p>

<p>Your dad would be the parent who’s income you report for FAFSA, but if you’re looking at private colleges too that use Profile, they will want info from both.</p>

<p>It doesn’t matter when the divorce will be final. As soon as your parents separated, your filing status changed to one parent. That it for the FAFSA at least.</p>