<p>A benefit of a WS job as opposed to an outside job is that the income is not held against you by FAFSA in the EFC formula the following year, as income from outside jobs would be (if they were over the protected income allowances). Also while WS earnings are taxable income (if you earn enough total income) for federal and state tax purposes, FICA contributions (@7%) are not deducted as they would be in an outside job.</p>