Summary of Changes 2009/2010 FAFSA

1. Worksheets A, B, and C incorporated into the application - The worksheets page has been eliminated and the majority of the worksheets data elements have been incorporated into the FAFSA application.  The data elements are as follows:

            - Worksheet A has been deleted, including the following four data elements:

                     -  Earned income credit from IRS Form 1040

                     -  Additional child tax credit from IRS Form 1040

                     -  Welfare benefits, including TANF

                     -  Social Security benefits received that were not taxed (such as SSI)

2. Data Elements Added - The most significant changes include the expansion of the dependency criteria to the following groups for the 2009-2010 FAFSA/Title IV, HEA program.  These groups are considered independent:

             - Individuals who were in foster care

             - Emancipated minors or minors in legal guardianship

             - Individuals verified as unaccompanied yourth who are homeless children

             - Youth who are at risk of homelessness

3. Other changes include:

             - A question regarding eligibility for the TEACH Grant

             - More specific information regarding veterans educational benefits

             - The addition of a field to allow parents to provide an e-mail address

             - Reintroducing the 'dislocated worker' status

The 2009-2010 FAFSA will be available online on January 1, 2009.  Please read all instructions carefully to obtain maximum eligibility for federal aid.