Comments on: Free College Money: The FAFSA

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 23:18:35 +0000

i qualified for loan now how do i get the money whats next step

By: Anthony

Anthony — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 05:19:54 +0000

I’m more than happy to help out! FAFSA preparation is a very helpful and appreciated service! I am an independent FAFSA preparer. I’ve worked in education for years, where many people have told me they would just rather pay someone to do it. The application is free, and I always make that point, but for many the FAFSA is confusing and a pain. Questions have complicated wording, and 167 questions leaves much room for error. All someone needs to do is fax or email me a copy of their tax return, then sign the application when I’m finished. Or, I can get the specific information from someone verbally or via email. Typcially clients are local to me in Texas because of the fear of identity theft, but I can help clients anywhere in the country with access to a fax or scanner and internet. If in Austin, I can pick it up. It’s definitely a same-day turn around, and people appreciate my service for the accurate, fast, and reliable work that they pay me for. I can be reached at blantonfaservices@gmail.com for any questions or additional contact information.
Anthony

By: Mary Fallon

Mary Fallon — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:55:01 +0000

Yes nearly everyone can receive some aid. Pell grants have been increased as have work study monies because of the new stimulus bill. And tuition tax credits are increased for those making $180,000 or less.

By: rachel

rachel — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:50:46 +0000

I’m applying for full time grad school after 4 yrs of working as an applications engineer.
Is there any incentive for me to fill out FAFSA?
thanks,

By: Mary Fallon

Mary Fallon — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:23:10 +0000

To Funny about Money – You could search for FAFSA preparers using terms such as Student Financial Aid Services, FAFSA preparer, FAFSA.

By: Funny about Money

Funny about Money — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:54:58 +0000

Where do you find one of these FAFSA application preparers? What terms would you google?

By: Mary Fallon

Mary Fallon — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:57:54 +0000

One thing you didn’t mention is the fierce competition for funds this year. The oldest and largest FAFSA advisor – Student Financial Aid Services – saw a 40% jump in calls during the first 5 days of the financial aid season. Delaying could cost families aid because grants, work-study, scholarships, and loans are awarded on a first come, first served basis. Sure you might be eligible for a loan but why not apply early and try to get a grant.
The reason why so many people – about 8 million according to the Dept of ED – don’t apply for aid via the FAFSA is because the form can be daunting. This year it is 137 tax and asset questions and a mistake can cost you time and time can cost you money in this world. There are professional FAFSA preparers who fill the form out for a fee and should double check for errors. Pick one that is all about maximizing your eligibility for student aid. Or you could file the application yourself for free on the ED Web site – be prepared to spend several hours and take your time. More than 2 million FAFSA forms are rejected by ED for errors. And errors slow down the processing of your application.

You don’t have to be a full-time student to file a FAFSA.

Nearly every student is eligible for some form of financial aid, including low-interest federal Stafford and/or parent PLUS loans, regardless of income or circumstances, provided a student:

• is a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or an eligible non-citizen;
• has a valid Social Security Number;
• has a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent;
• is registered with the U.S. Selective Service (if a male ages 18 to 25);
• completes a FAFSA promising to use any federal aid for educational purposes;
• does not owe refunds on any federal student grants;
• is not in default on any student loans; and
• has not been found guilty of the sale or possession of illegal drugs during a period when he/she received federal student aid.

Good luck!