Non-custodial parent info isn’t waived just on the basis of relative non-involvement, but it definitely is if the parent is incarcerated. If she isn’t and is just unemployed or low-income, then you just need to be proactive and allow lots of time to secure her cooperation with submitting the required info. Doesn’t sound like her income disqualifying you for aid is going to be a problem unless things change significantly.
I think the main point of the people who are saying it’s too early is that it’s too early to get your heart set on anything. That part is true - your interests could shift over the next few years, and the most important years of your academic record are still ahead of you. But IMHO it is great that you want to learn about what’s out there. As long as it’s in a spirit of educating yourself and keeping an open mind, it will position you to be much better prepared than most for the application process. It will give you time to familiarize yourself with more than just the best-known options that are ridiculously competitive, in part, because they’re the only “good” schools that so many people bother to learn about. Take your time and do the legwork to find those places that will give you the environment and programs you’re looking for AND keep you out of debt to the greatest extent possible, and you will be in great shape when it comes time to apply! I would suggest focusing on financial safeties at this stage, so that you know there are places you can get into, afford, and be happy to attend. The reach schools are easy to identify and will take care of themselves when the time comes.