<p>The new bill allows schools to perform an income-based professional judgment and reduce the EFC to zero for those who are unemployed, receiving unemployment benefits and qualify for a specific letter that the Unemployment Commission will begin issuing soon. I am not sure of all of the particulars but I do know that there is no requirement for a school to automatically reduce the EFC to zero, only a strong recommendation by President Obama and the Department of Education.</p>
<p>I would recommend contacting the school and asking them if they will be participating in the program and then contact your Unemployment Commission to see if you qualify for one of those letters.</p>