Do the FAFSA. It’s not hard. People get overly frightened by it. It’s 30 minutes and done.
In theory, merit aid shouldn’t need it but there are schools that say they want it - and why take that chance.
If you’re not going to do FAFSA, why would you do CSS? It’s need based for private and higher echelon public schools.
In the end, depends on where you are applying. Some colleges - like Alabama, Arizona, Ms State, Bradley and a host of others have up front scholarships - you know the amount b4 you apply
If nothing else, you should do the FAFSA to see what your expected need is. It might surprise you. Other schools, like Chicago, will waive the application fee if you do a FAFSA.
I got no aid - but still am glad I did the FAFSA. I found it not hard at all. I downloaded my tax return into it.