Made a huge mistake on FASFA

Paying for College
1

My daughter graduated in 2024 and for her 2024-2025 FASFA I had a financial advisor that the HS recommended complete the form. My mom is the one who actually convinced me to do it to ensure we would complete it correctly. When I completed the 2025-2026 FAFSA I basically copied what he had done.

My younger daughter will be going to college next year and I started doing my research to get ready for the October 1 opening. When I was doing that I came across child support and how it should be listed as an asset. I realized that I was never ask for that information from the advisor and it’s not on the last two forms that were completed.

My daughter got need based grants both years. I received approx 28k per year for both my children. I’m not sure what to do as this was an honest mistake.

I feel terrible because this will absolutely affect her and what she can afford for school.

any advice or guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

2

correction 28k per year in child support for two children.

3

@kelsmom

4

Child support received in the year in question must be reported. The question is asked as Question 39 on the 2025-26 FAFSA. It may or may not affect aid going forward when it’s reported correctly … that depends on the parent financial situation. Go to the school Net Price Calculator and enter all information with the child support & then without it to see the effect. Hopefully, it doesn’t reduce aid much. Even if it does, though, it needs to be correctly reported.

And please … never allow anyone else to complete your FAFSA.

1 Like