Completing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps in securing money for college or career training. It opens the door to grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities and federal loans. And the best part? It’s completely free to fill out!

Many students and families find the process overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. College Now offers hands-on support, tools and workshops to simplify your FAFSA experience.

Gathering the right documents in advance will make your FAFSA process faster and easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Your Social Security Number
• Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) if you’re an eligible non-citizen
• Federal income tax returns, W-2s and other records of money earned
• Records of untaxed income (if applicable)
• Bank statements and records of investments, excluding retirement accounts (if applicable)
• Records of small businesses with more than 100 employees and investment farm assets (if applicable)
• Your current cash, savings and checking account balances
• An FSA ID (account username and password) to log in at studentaid.gov

Important:
If you’re a dependent student, you’ll need your parent(s)’ financial information. If you’re married and filed taxes separately from your spouse, their information will also be required. You must also provide consent to share federal tax information through the FAFSA to remain eligible for aid.