What you need to Prepare for Completing the FAFSA | 2010-2011 FAFSA Form Guide Step 1

Pre-FAFSA Preparation

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What documentation and paperwork do you need to complete the FAFSA? We have a comprehensive list for you.

All financial paperwork needs to be for the previous financial year. If you are planning to file for the 2010-2011 FAFSA, you will need documentation from tax year 2009 (January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009).

Tip: If you don't have your W-2 tax forms from 2009, you can estimate using your pay stubs and file a FAFSA correction later.

• Your Social Security Number (can be found on the Social Security card)
• Your driver's license or state ID (if any)
• Your W-2 Forms and other records of money earned
• Your (and your spouse's, if you're married) 2009 Federal Income Tax Return - IRS Form 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, 1040TeleFile, foreign tax return, or tax return for Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Marshall Islands, or the Federated States of Micronesia
• Your parents' Federal Income Tax Return (if you are a dependent student)
• Your untaxed income records - Social Security, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, welfare, or veterans benefits records
• Your current bank statements
• Your current business and investment mortgage information, business and farm records, stock, bond, and other investment records
• Your alien registration or permanent residence card (if you are not a U.S. citizen)

Because you will be filing your FAFSA using the FAFSA on the Web form, you will need your FAFSA PIN before you begin the process. Make sure you obtain your PIN and if you are filing as a dependent student, your parents will need their PIN as well.

Learn more about the FAFSA PIN here.

Move on to Step 2 of the 2010-2011 FAFSA

Start Your FAFSA - Financial Aid Application Form