FAFSA Form & Financial Aid Form Blog

Source: FAFSA blog

Here’s an overall FAFSA strategy to help you maximize your federal financial aid.

First, gather up all your paperwork and do an IRS 1040 form. Unless you’re in a situation where you’re expecting a massive year-end bonus or a huge chunk of overtime, chances are your tax year 2007 is coming to a close with relative predictability, allowing you to get a reasonably accurate picture of your taxes.

Next, see a financial planner about making any last minute, year-end adjustments to your taxes, such as additional contributions to retirement funds to maximize the deductions you can take. Most community banks and credit unions offer free or very low cost access to financial planners.

Download a copy of the FAFSA from our help guide and do a practice run.

If you run into trouble or there are questions that are confusing, contact us, ask a financial aid administrator at your school, or attend a College Goal Sunday event for free help.

Make careful note about when the FAFSA deadlines for your state are! If you miss a deadline, you will very likely miss out on some financial aid.