<p>Can I use tax returns from 2011? I'm an upcoming senior. For some reason my parents are still working on 2012. They have a ton of different things, businesses opening and closing, selfemployed, etc. Is 2011 too old?</p>
<p>I believe that for the next FAFSA (available 01/01/14) you will have to use 2013 tax returns. You cant use 2011 0r 2012.</p>
<p>So can I apply to all schools without applying for need based aid until after I’ve been accepted? I want to be done with apps by december</p>
<p>If it is a FAFSA only school, you can’t do the FAFSA for the 2014-15 school year until Jan 1st 2014. It will require the 2013 tax info. You can put estimated numbers and update later if need be, but will need the finalized tax return before you will receive any aid. So while you are in college, it is important that your Dad files a bit earlier.</p>
<p>If it is a profile school or a school that requires some form of their own, you need to meet whatever deadline they have. If that deadline is before the end of this year, they will be expecting the 2012 taxes. Your dad has until Oct 15th to file so it seems likely you will meet the deadlines. They will eventually require 2013 tax data.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>No. Schools will ask if you are applying for financial aid. If you say “yes,” they’ll expect you to submit supporting documentation. If you say “no,” then it’s entirely possible you won’t be awarded any aid for the coming year - it depends on the school, their policies, and their deadlines. Also, many schools take your financial need into account when making admissions decisions - so if you’re admitted based on your statement that you don’t need aid, don’t expect to get any later.</p>
<p>And swimcatsmom is being generous when she says your dad will need to file “a bit” earlier once you are in college. He’ll have to file a lot earlier if you expect to be awarded any financial aid. And, if aid is crucial to your decision as to which college to attend, he’s going to have to file a heck of a lot earlier this coming year. Some colleges will not calculate your financial aid award at all until they’ve received your dad’s 2013 tax return!</p>