Why am I a "dependent" when it comes to FAFSA?

Question

So I'm filling out the online FAFSA form and I get to the 'dependancy status' part of it. I moved out over a year ago and yet I'm still considered a 'dependent'. Why is this if my mother is in no way financially responsible for me. I'm unmarried, do not have children, and pay for everything except for what my roomate pays. Are there ways to get around my mother's income?

Answer 1

Your not over 24 or married.

I'm in the same boat.

Answer 2

Being classified "dependent" has nothing to do with who is financially responsible for you and being "independent" has nothing to do with paying for your own way.  These are just classifications and could be called anything, Red and Blue or Called a A or B.  The words are misleading.

No way around you mothers income.

Answer 3

Trust me I know. It's a stupid rule. FASFA considers you a dependant I believe until you are like 24/25.  It sucks, especially if you have minimal contact with your parents and don't want them bothered with your business.

Answer 4

Get married and/or have a baby, and that will fix it.

Answer 5

you may think it is unfair, but it is what it is.  the family should primarily be responsible for educating the children.  If your parents wont pay, then you are on your own.  You can always put school off until you are 24, or go get married or even better - get pregnant.    Why should the taxpayers foot the bill for every 18+ person who decides to move out and go to school?

Answer 6

I'm in the same boat, you have to wait until your 23. What the government fails to realize now a days is that parents don't pay for college anymore, it's myth. Maybe there are some kids out there that do have parents that pay for school but I don't know of any.