What constitutes separated on the FAFSA?

<p>I have a quick question. My parents are not legally separated, but they live in different states. My dad gives my mom some money every month for car and house payments. Can I mark them as separated on the FAFSA?
Thanks :)</p>

<p>Are they separated only for work or another such reason and they consider themselves to still be “a married couple” or are they separated because they intend to live apart from now on and perhaps move on to legal separation and/or divorce? Unlike the IRS, the department of education and fafsa do recognize informal separation.</p>

<p>They are separated and plan to become legally divorced latter. They both have new relationships.</p>

<p>If you live with your mom, then you would use HER income PLUS any monies that your dad provides on your FAFSA.</p>

<p>Not sure how you’d use assets…if your parents have savings that are still in joint accts, I wonder if you split the amounts?</p>

<p>Yes, you can select separated on the fafsa and do what mom2 says regarding income. If you are in a community property state I would think the assets would be split 50/50. In other states maybe so too. Maybe kelsmom or someone else will chime in.</p>