Marrying for FAFSA

[free_radical]

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I was recently married in a religious ceremony, but have not yet gotten civilly married; essentially, we can choose when we want to get civilly married, depending on when it's financially smartest, in terms of taxes, etc.

So- what practical difference will there be in my financial aid packages whether or not we get civilly married? My wife is a law school student; not making any money.

What is smarter, to get civilly married or not? How will it affect me?

 

[plauto]

I was recently married in a religious ceremony, but have not yet gotten civilly married; essentially, we can choose when we want to get civilly married, depending on when it's financially smartest, in terms of taxes, etc.

So- what practical difference will there be in my financial aid packages whether or not we get civilly married? My wife is a law school student; not making any money.

What is smarter, to get civilly married or not? How will it affect me?

Strictly for tax purposes, it is a lot more convenient to file "married filing jointly" unless you have very specific circumstances (which, from what you said, you don't have). I believe it is for FAFSA purposes as well, especially since your wife doesn't make any money and you can claim as an exemption. I do believe that, in most states, you cannot choose how to file according to how convenient it is. Basically, if you file one way (jointly or separately) for federal taxes (and for the FAFSA) you must file the same way for your state taxes.