Expert: Tim G - 4/11/2009

Question
Hello,
I'm 20 years old and have claimed myself as a dependent for the 2009/2010 school year. I am engaged and maybe getting married during the year. So far as I have claimed myself as a dependent on my single mother who has three kids altogether, I've been getting my tuition covered with grants. If I decide to get married later on will it mess up my financial aid for the year, or will I have to claim myself as an independent if I do, will I get less money since I only make abt 4000 a yr and my fiance doesn't work yet. Thanks

Answer
These are your questions, which I did answer...

1. If I decide to get married later on will it mess up my financial aid for the year?

2. Will I have to claim myself as an independent if I do?

3. Will I get less money since I only make about 4000 a yr and my fiance doesn't work yet?


The less money you make is the more aid you receive. (3)


When you marry you will be an independent on the fafsa and eligible for more aid. (2) (3)

Dependent students are only eligible for certain funds whereas independent students receive more. (2) (3)

For further info: http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/attachments/siteresources/FundingEduBeyondHigh... (1)


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