<p>Wait a minute- the OP isn’t asking for aid/EFC, she’s asking about loan eligibility. Whether or not the stepparent’s income is include (which it will be) will only (possibly) impact unsub vs sub loans. Either way, it wouldn’t impact the student’s Stafford loan eligibility. They would still be eligible for the same amounts (no matter how the parent files). </p>
<p>I guess it could impact Perkins loans. </p>
<p>But there will be no benefits to filing separately. The spouse’s income will impact the EFC and it needs to be included.</p>