FA Professionals--question about dependent/independent status in guardianship

kelsmom
Tue, 01 Mar 2011 21:07:59 +0000

If she was a ward of the court for even a single day after the age of 13, she is automatically independent for all time.

Her step father can still claim her on her taxes as far as financial aid is concerned. If the IRS allows him to claim her, he can (without jeopardizing her aid in any way).

She is required to report any money her stepfather pays on her behalf … that is in HER name. For example, if she has a lease in her name, a charge card in her name, a cell phone bill her her name, etc that he pays, that is “other income.” If he paid her tuition (not as a loan, but as a gift), that is other income.

Some aid offices will adjust some of the budget components for independent students who are supported by their parents. The regulations do allow for adjustments based on individual situations. However, if they plan to make some sort of adjustments, they often will have the student fill out a budget form or something similar that explains how they live/who pays for things/etc.