Should I mention extenuating circumstances on my college app when it prompts me to do so?

I have certain situations like a long-term illness in my family and taking care of several people financially outside of the immediate family. Those situations really haven’t affected my grades much but have definitely impacted my family’s ability to pay for school. When a local state school, Rutgers, asks about extenuating circumstances should I mention this in order to potentially get a bigger financial package? or does it just sound like me making my excuses?

The admissions process is separate from financial aid. You need to communicate with the FA office. Just FYI, ongoing medical issues might be considered in your FA package, but supporting anyone outside your immediate family will not.