Step-by-Step Guide- Adding an Additional Parent as a Contributor to Your FAFSA Application

How to Add Another Parent Contributor to FAFSA

Adding another parent contributor to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can be a crucial step for students who have unique family circumstances. Whether it’s due to remarriage, separation, or other reasons, including the income and assets of another parent can significantly impact the financial aid package a student receives. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to add another parent contributor to FAFSA, ensuring that you understand the necessary steps and considerations.

Understanding the FAFSA Process

Before diving into the specifics of adding another parent contributor, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of the FAFSA process. The FAFSA is a government form used to determine a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The information provided on the FAFSA is used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is a key factor in determining the amount of financial aid a student is eligible for.

Eligibility for Adding Another Parent

Not all students are eligible to add another parent contributor to their FAFSA. Generally, a student can include the income and assets of another parent if they are either:

1. A dependent student whose parents are remarried or separated.
2. A dependent student whose parents are deceased or are unable to provide financial information.
3. A dependent student whose parents are incarcerated or have been incarcerated for the past year.

If a student meets any of these criteria, they can proceed with adding another parent contributor to their FAFSA.

Steps to Add Another Parent Contributor

To add another parent contributor to your FAFSA, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your FAFSA account using your Federal Student Aid ID.
2. Click on “Make FAFSA Corrections” and select the appropriate academic year.
3. Look for the section labeled “Parent Information” and click on “Add Parent.”
4. Enter the required information for the new parent, including their name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
5. Provide the new parent’s income and asset information for the relevant tax year.
6. Review the information and submit the FAFSA corrections.

Considerations and Tips

When adding another parent contributor to your FAFSA, keep the following considerations and tips in mind:

1. Be sure to enter accurate and up-to-date information for both parents.
2. If you are unsure about the eligibility of adding another parent, consult the FAFSA guidelines or seek assistance from a financial aid advisor.
3. Remember that the income and assets of both parents will be considered when calculating the EFC.
4. If you have any questions or concerns during the process, don’t hesitate to contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).

By following these steps and considerations, you can successfully add another parent contributor to your FAFSA and ensure that you receive the appropriate financial aid for your education.