Normally to be regarded as Independent you have to be able to answer “Yes” to the following questions:

were you born before January 1, 1984

are you a graduate or professional student

are you married

do you have children you support

do you have legal dependents

are you an orphan or ward of the court

are you active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces

are you a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces

If you cannot answer yes, then you would need to provide your parental information. If neither you nor your partner work, then you would have a lower EFC then you would in having to use your parental information.

Even though domestic partnerships are recognized in CA, they are not federally recognized, so I do not believe you would qualify as an Independent when you first complete the FAFSA. However, you may be able to have your financial aid office use Professional Judgement in making you Independent based on appeal.

This is something you would definitely need to talk over with a financial aid officer at your school to see what they do in these situations. Good luck!

you should probably contact FAFSA directly, or go to the website FAFSA.edu.gov. I’m not sure if they give you more money for being married or not, but the partnership thing I have no idea. I know you can get more if you kids, are not living with parents etc. And the amount depends on where you go to school. It’s a nation wide thing, but each school too might have their own money to award you, like grants. Good luck!

that’s discrimination. particular. yet. Its evident why it is so. that doesn’t make it impressive, morally, in spite of the undeniable fact that it ‘s an attempt to place impressive particular social themes that we as a community are no longer totally tender with. there is not any morality in how the social and financial reward are disbursed. there is basically a prefer to objective and look equitable. especially situations the minority themes would desire to be secure. that’s all…..its no longer impressive or incorrect, its basically a botched up attempt at some kind of equality! Do your sums, the regulation does not enable us to win each way. If finance is your reason to no longer get married…….particular at one time I did that too, as a results of fact it would have meant 40% greater effective tax. I stay in Britain. ok, so, if funds on my own dictate the call, i’m particular you will decide for the greater valuable one.