<p>I'm trying to figure out what I can do about my financial aid. I recently applied to Beloit and I STILL have not done my FAFSA. But that's not the problem. The real issue is that both of my parent's are separated (but not legally). My father has no job (and will not get one) and sadly, I live with him (due to choice and complicated situation). I use my mother's income. And neither of my parent's can't afford to provide me any money for college anyway (my dad wants to keep me from going out of spite and my mother isn't currently having to raise my brother and I, so she's in no position). If I contact the Office of Admissions on this issue, will they force me to use my father's income (even though he has none, nor has he he ever filed when he did have his own construction business. He's in debt to the IRS for 6-7 years running too)? And if that's the case, will that hurt my chances of receiving aid? </p>
<p>Um...technically there is no custodial parent because they're not "legally" separated. There are no guidelines or anything. I have the choice to live with whom I want (my mom lives with the next door neighbor). But really, my mom would have to be considered such since she's the ONLY one that provides me with my basic needs. My father does nothing. At all. He doesn't even want me to go to college. He'd rather I'd "hang sheet-rock" (Off topic). </p>
<p>Even if I had to use him, there would be nothing to file. And how does he actually have anything if he owes it all to the IRS?</p>
<p>As for the deadline itself, Beloit doesn't have a specific deadline, just a preferred one. It won't deter aid, only the time in receiving a package.</p>
<p>if your parents are not legally separated, you have to include the information for both parents on the FAFSA, regardless of who you live with.</p>
<p>As far as preferred vs. required deadlines -- if you meet the preferred date, you are more likely to qualify for institutional aid. If you don't meet the preferred date, you are most likely only going to be awarded PELL grants and stafford loans (depending on whether you qualify)</p>
<p>If your parents are still officially married and your father does not earn any money, the only income there is to count is your mothers -- I don't see the complication.</p>