<p>With acceptance notices going out Dec. 15, when would FA notifications go out, and what are they based on if the FAFSA can’t be done until after the first of the year and taxes are filed? Are there any priority deadlines or anything like that for the CSS Profile? Should it be completed now with estimates?
Thanks</p>
<p>ED financial packages are based on an estimate of your 2010 earnings and actual 2009 FAFSA you submit. You’ll be asked to resubmit the 2010 FAFSA and then a firm package is provided.
If your estimate differs substantially from actual results, you should expect the package they provide will change accordingly.
So make sure that you don’t underestimate anything and are as accurate as possible. You will be asked to provide your 2010 1040 forms for you and your parents by the same deadline as all RD applicants.</p>
<p>Thanks. Is there a problem with sending in multiple estimators (have done 2 already)? Now, the 2010 numbers are becoming clearer, so another one would be most accurate.</p>
<p>The bottom line is that the only binding financial aid package you receive will be the one you receive after you’ve send the 2010 FAFSA and 2010 signed 1040s and W2s. All other packages are all estimates (and they will tell you such) when you receive a package with ED decision. So to be safe, make sure you do not underestimate your income-- this way, your package will be accurate once an actual EFC is calculated by FAFSA.</p>
<p>After you are accepted ED, best thing to do is at that time is to revise your data and ask for an accurate financial aid award so you can make an informed decision.</p>
<p>Good luck-- just a few more weeks until decision day!</p>