FAFSA Do's and Don't's

            Use your legal name, not a nickname, etc. 

Do not leave a field blank.  If the answer is zero or the question does not apply to you, write in zero.

You can still fill out a paper form, but it takes many more weeks to process and there is no quick way to correct

mistakes.  If you do not want to go online yourself, we can fax it to Education Quest. They will submit it electronically

for you.  They can spot minor mistakes that will otherwise cost you hassles and time down the road. 

They also return all paperwork and keep nothing.  They also are available for any questions.

Kearney Office     FAX: 308-234-2113

www.educationquest.org
2706 Second Avenue, Suite B
Kearney, NE 68847
800-666-3721

Or you can go to www.fafsa.ed.gov and complete it yourself.  There is a FAFSA worksheet that follows the order of the online questions better than the usual paper form.  It is available off the website or in my office.

Do not use the W-2 form for income reporting and reporting taxes paid, make sure you use the 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ Federal tax return instead.  If you qualify for the 1040A or 1040EZ be sure to indicate that on your application.

If you live with a stepparent, include the stepparent’s information.

Include yourself in the household size.

If your parents are divorced or separated, the parent responsible for filling out the FAFSA is the parent with whom you lived the most during the past year.

Answer yes to the question that asks you about the different types of aid like loans or work-study.  This does not obligate you to a loan.

Last but not least:

Be sure to make copies of the form before you send it and that you and a parent signs it by using your pin or written signature.

Submit it as soon as January 1.  If funding is limited, it will be given on a first come, first-served basis.