I'm filing out my fafsa and reported about $75,000 on my 2007 tax return and don't qualify for financial aid?

Question

My thing is that this year, life made a 180 on me and i lost my job and was unemployed for 2 months and now only make $10/hr and I'm trying to qualify for aid but I can't since it's based on last years taxes? Do you guys know if there's a way to work around the fafsa or possibly the financial aid office, It's just a general question that I'm trying to figure out to go back to school and not have to wait until February of next year to report my crappy salary that i've made this year. I'm pretty sure I will qualify next year, but I'm trying to see what I can do for this year. any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

The FAFSA helps with federal loans and grants and some scholarships use the information to determine if you qualify for their scholarships.  However, you might be able to apply for a student loan from a bank.  The ones our kids have applied for didn't ask for the FAFSA information, just our financial information, but they also want a co-signer if you are under 24 years of age.  

Answer 2

You made 75,000 last year and don't have a couple grand in savings to go to school?  Strong financial irresponsibility on your part bud.

Answer 3

You can write a letter for a professional judgment to the director of financial aid.  I always tell people to include all the dirty details.  If you only say I'm not making what I made last year you're wasting every ones time.  You need to include the entire sob story (no disrespect intended there).  Give all the gory details.

I use to make XX last year.  I lost my job (and why-downsizing, etc) and was out of work for XX amount of time.  I am currently making XX amount per week which is going to be about XX for the year.  As you can see this is nearly XX difference from last year.

Does that make sense?

Give it a go, the worst they can say is no.