Help with CSS Profile

As you are filling out the CSS Profile with information from your deceased husband’s taxes, you should only include the life insurance proceeds under one category, either investments or untaxable income. Putting it in both places would result in double counting. Regarding the survivor benefits from Social Security, you should include the full amount for all household members, including your high school student.

This is because the benefits are intended to support the entire family, not just the college student. As for your expected contribution towards college tuition, it is difficult to provide an exact figure without more specific information about your financial situation. However, given your income and expenses, it is unlikely that you would be expected to pay the full $30,000 per year.

The colleges will consider your overall financial situation and determine an expected family contribution (EFC) that you can afford. You can appeal the financial aid packages if you believe the EFC is too high.