Avoid Common FAFSA Mistakes to Maximize Financial Aid

If your child plans to attend college, the FAFSA is a crucial financial document. Many families make costly errors that lead to thousands in lost aid. Here’s a breakdown of the common mistakes and how to avoid them to maximize financial aid for college expenses.

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1. Student-Owned Assets

Keeping savings in a child’s custodial account (UGMA/UTMA) is a common mistake. FAFSA assesses these assets at up to 20%, unlike parent-owned assets, which are only assessed at around 5.64%. For example, $10,000 in a student account can reduce potential aid by $2,000. It’s more strategic to keep these funds in parent-owned accounts.

2. Income Spikes During Base Years

FAFSA considers the “prior-prior year’s” income. For the 2026-27 school year, it looks at 2024 income. Large income events like selling a business or realizing big capital gains during these years inflate income, reducing aid eligibility. Smart tax planning and understanding the timing of income events can help manage this challenge.

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3. Incorrect Use of 529 Withdrawals

While 529 plans are excellent for college savings, improper withdrawals can be detrimental. If funds from a grandparent-owned 529 are used, it counts as student income in the next year, assessed at up to 50%. Use grandparent 529 funds after the student’s final FAFSA year, or transfer them into a parent-owned plan.

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4. Overlooked Income Reporting

Ensure all income is reported, including untaxed Social Security benefits, child support, or retirement account distributions. Missing these can trigger corrections and reduce aid eligibility.

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5. Missing Deadlines

FAFSA deadlines vary by state and institution. Aid is often distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so submit your application early to secure your child’s aid eligibility.

Getting FAFSA Right

  • Prioritize saving in parent-owned 529s.
  • Manage the timing of large income events to avoid base year penalties.
  • Coordinate withdrawals from 529s and other savings accounts.
  • Start the FAFSA process early and verify all deadlines.

The FAFSA is more than just a form—it’s your pathway to financial aid and affordable college education. Avoiding these mistakes can safeguard your child’s eligibility for grants and scholarships.

👉 Next Step: Schedule a consultation with our experts to develop a tailored FAFSA strategy that maximizes your financial aid potential. Ensure your child receives all the aid they deserve without unnecessary hassles.

Have Questions?
Let's talk. We are here to help!
Contact Us
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