<p>i was having a discussion with my mother today about if i was gonna do my taxes again this year. i said i didn't know and i'm gonna make my decision based on whats more beneficial to be being ale to get the pell grand and of course for my fafsa. i made about 7300 this year along. twice what i made last year, my mother has a full time job and last year made around 35000 and hah a art me job for the last couple of months, but shalso has two kids sh takes care of and a single mother. so is it better that she claims me on her taxes or for me do my taxes separate the same as last year.</p>
<p>Just to clarify, you're asking if she should you as a dependent on her taxes or you should file separately? Because technically, you can file taxes and still be claimed as a dependent on her taxes. You should go ahead and do that; for forms like FAFSA, state grants, and the CSS Profile, they look at your parent's income based on their tax returns and figure in your income separately. Either way, you'll probably get a lot of money based on your family's household income.</p>
<p>so what you're saying is even if i file my taxes separately, my mom can still claim me as a dependent and it won't really affect my finaid.</p>
<p>precisely; you can file taxes separately and still be declared as a dependent - not only that, but it won't affect your financial aid.</p>
<p>Just to clarify. Only one of you can claim you on their taxes. You can claim yourself, and then she doesnt. Or you don't claim yourself (but still file a return) and she does. Either way, for FAFSA purposes, you are her dependent. Do whatever give you a bigger refund combined.</p>