How do you fill out FAFSA if you don't file tax returns?

[DoctorWannaBe]

I did not file a tax return for 2002 because my income was so low that I owed no money. Will this negatively affect my ability to fill out the FAFSA or get loans for 2004? I am independent and would like to avoid listing my parents' information (if possible). If I file a tax return for 2003 will this be ok, or do they require a couple years worth of data?

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[mpp]

They just require the most recent data. So if you fill out FAFSA in 2004, you will use the tax information from your 2003 tax return (the one that you file in April 2004). The reason to fill out a return even if your income was low is to get back the money that the government owes you (if you taxes were withheld from your paycheck). But regardless, just to make the process smoother, fill out a return in 2004. It will not cost you anymore than a little bit of time and a stamp (and may get you some money in return).

As far as parental information, this is school dependent. Check the AAMC website (link) to see if you are required to provide parental information (regardless of your age, marital status, job, etc.) to be eligible for institutional grants/loans. For Stafford loans, no parental information is required unless you are a dependent.