Do I NEED to file married jointly in California if I want to be eligible for Federal Aid?
FAFSA allows me to apply even though I filed my taxes married separtely, just so long as I include my spouses income information as well (which I do).
Here’s the issue: The financial aid officer at my school said “it is illegal” to file your taxes as separate if you’re married and “I need to file jointly”.
Correct me if I’m wrong, it isn’t illegal to file separately, and she isn’t a licensed tax preparer, so isn’t her statements not only illegal but unethical?
I contacted FAFSA and they said I should file an appeal immediately, but what about what the financial aid officer, should I form a complaint? To who? Thanks for the feedback..
Favorite Answer
It is not illegal for you to file “married filing separately” if you are legally married. It is, however, illegal for you to file as “single” if you are married.
I think what happened is somehow your FA officer thought you were filing as “single.” I’d clarify this before moving forward because a lot of times people say they are “married filing singly,” which doesn’t exist.
Then, if you have a complaint, I’d go to the Director of Financial Aid first.
In terms of an appeal for your FAFSA, if you provided your spouse’s information accurately, nothing should change.
Good luck!
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