The 2020-21 FAFSA is freshly available on fafsa.gov, but before you run to fill it out, there are a few things you should know.
- You need to create a username and password – This will become your FSA ID. You should have one of your parents create an ID, as well. This will allow them to access the form and complete the parent information section, so you don’t have to go back and forth asking questions while filling out the form yourself. Your FSA IDs allow each of you to fill out and save portions of the form to share with one another.
- You need an SSN – If you don’t have your social security number memorized, hopefully, either you or a parent knows where the card is. Otherwise, you are going to need to go to your local Social Security Administration office to have a new one issued.
- Last year’s tax records – This is a new step in the FAFSA process. The government wants to see tax records as proof of household income. For example, for the 2020-21 FAFSA form, they will want to see your 2018 tax documents. Your 2019 taxes will not be accepted even if you wait to fill out the FAFSA after you complete your taxes for the new year.
Along with these records, you may be required to submit other financial records as well as information on each school you intend to apply to.
Help with the College Planning Process
College Planning Source is here to help you through the complicated college planning and funding process. Contact us now at 858.676.0700 or submit our online form.
