<p>^^While Y asks for 2009 tax forms, I don’t believe they base provisional FA offers on them, but rather on your 2010 estimates that you submit on your Profile. They always ask for tax forms, and likely would look for any major unexplained anomalies between the actual 2009 and estimated 2010 numbers. You should call up Y and find out for sure, but it’s my understanding that your final FA package is modified depending on the differences between your 2010 estimates and your final 2010 taxes.</p>
<p>At least up to this point I have not seen any indication that Y gives different FA packages depending on when you apply (as long as it’s before the final deadline). Recently I decided to forgo the provisional FA offer and just send them the Profile after acceptance, if it happens ;). But that’s because I already have a kid there now and therefore have a pretty good idea of the amount of FA we will receive. For families new to college FA, I think an early FA package at Y can be very informative, as it’s likely to be one of the most generous FA packages a student will receive.</p>