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<p>There is no real difference, for FAFSA purposes, between separated and divorced. Separated parents can file joint tax returns but the custodial parent must split out their share of AGI, income from work, and taxes in order to file FAFSA correctly.</p>
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<p>Who is the custodial parent…sounds like the mom? They would report her share of the joint assets, any income/assets of the child, and any spousal maintenance/child support she is receiving. They will also have to report the date of separation and schools may ask for proof of this. If they are in a state that provides for legal separation that document would be the easiest to provide but schools will accept other froms of proof that separate residences are being maintained (ie. leases, utility bills, etc.).</p>