Prepare to file your FAFSA.

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Yeah, say that 10 times real fast. In other words, it’s the form you need to fill out so the people who are able to give you money can determine how much you need, and if you really need it.

Every year that you are attending school, you must renew your FAFSA. This is called the Renewal FAFSA. If this isn’t your first time filling out a FAFSA, then proceed to the Renewal FAFSA page now.

Also know that If you change schools, your financial aid doesn’t automatically transfer with you. Check with your new school to find out what you need to do to continue receiving financial aid. In any event make sure you renew your FAFSA when if you change schools.

Guess we’ll need a checklist for this too.

This may get a little messy, but it could really be worth it. Before logging on to fill out the FAFSA form, you’ll need the following information available. (And if you’re filing as a Dependent student, you’re gonna need all of these items of your parents’ too.)

• Your Social Security Number
• Your Driver’s Licence
• Your previous year W-2’s and other records of money earned
• Your completed Federal Income Tax Return
• If you have any, foreign tax returns, records of Social Security payments, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, welfare or veterans benefits records.
• Your current bank statement, and any investment records
• If you’re not a U.S. citizen, your Alien Registration Number or Permanent Residence Card

Get PIN’d!

Next, you’ll need to register for your Personal Identification Number (PIN) by logging on to the U.S. Department of Education’s website at pin.ed.gov. Your parents will need their own PIN too, so they can sign up at the same web address. A PIN number lets you apply and digitally “sign” the online FAFSA form, make corrections to your application and more.

File your FAFSA online.

Well, you’ve made it this far. Now put your prep into action!

The time to file your FAFSA for the upcoming school-year is after January 1, but before July 2. (No exceptions to either date.) So check your calendar, and if that time is now, then click the logo below and file away!

*Note: Apply as soon as possible after January 1 to meet school and state aid deadlines. Check with the universities and colleges of your choice for application deadlines so that you meet all application deadlines.