Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step in securing financial aid for college or trade school. To ensure a smooth application process, it's important to gather all necessary documents beforehand. Below is a checklist of the documents you will need. The FAFSA form for each academic year is usually available by October 1 and should be submitted as soon as possible after this date to maximize your financial aid opportunities. The deadline can vary depending on the state and institution. It is important to check with your specific state and college for their deadlines, as they may have earlier submission dates to be eligible for state and institutional aid. Students need to submit the FAFSA every year they are enrolled in school to remain eligible for financial aid. 

The federal deadline is June 30 each year. The form needs to be submitted before starting school to be eligible for student aid.
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FAFSA Federal Student Aid Information Center: 1-800-433-3243.
 
Checklist of Documents Needed for FAFSA: 
 
      . Your Social Security number 
      . Your parents' Social Security numbers (if you are a dependent student) 
      . Your driver's license number (if you have one) 
      . Your Alien Registration number (if you are not a U.S. citizen) 
      .  Federal tax information or tax returns:  For your parents (if you are a dependent student) For you (and
         your spouse, if you are married) 
     .  Records of your untaxed income:  Child support received  Interest income  Veterans non-education
        benefits  Information on cash, savings, and checking account balances 
     .  Investments other than the home in which you live  Business and farm assets (if applicable) 
 
If you have questions or need further assistance, contact your Step Forward Mentor or any member of the SFSF Team.
 
Good luck with your application! 🎓 
 

Sources:
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Filling Out the FAFSA® Form Federal Student Aid 
FAFSA Checklist: The Documents You Need - NerdWallet 
How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step - SoFi 
Things Students Need Before They Fill Out the 2024–25 FAFSA® Form 
Do You Have to Fill Out the FAFSA Every Year? - NerdWallet 
Steps for Parents Completing the 2024–25 FAFSA® Form 
How Often Do You Need to File the FAFSA? - LendEDU 
Do You Need To Submit The FAFSA Every Semester? - Bankrate 
Do You Need to Submit the FAFSA every semester? - AOL   ​