Who is my parent on the FAFSA form?

Filling out the FAFSA can get confusing, especially when it comes to the parent information section.

So who is considered a parent on the FAFSA form? We will clarify who qualifies as a parent on the FAFSA form and answer related questions to ensure a smooth application process.

Who is My Parent on the FAFSA Form?

For FAFSA purposes, a “parent” is generally defined as your legal parent. This includes:

  1. Biological or adoptive parent(s): This is the most straightforward definition. If you were born to or adopted by a couple, they are your legal parents for FAFSA purposes.
  2. Stepparent who has legally adopted you: If your stepparent has formally adopted you, they are considered a legal parent.

How does marital status affect FAFSA?

Here’s how marital status affects who you report as a parent on your FAFSA application form:

  1. Married parents: If your biological or adoptive parents are married to each other, you will need to provide information about both of them on the FAFSA.
  2. Unmarried parents living together: If your biological or adoptive parents are not married but live together, you will still need to provide information about both of them.
  3. Single parent or widowed parent: If you have one living parent who is single or widowed, you will only need to provide information about that parent.

For specific questions on the FAFSA form regarding your parent’s college attendance or service-related death, only information from your biological or adoptive parents is considered. 

Your stepparent’s information is not included in these instances.

How Do I Get My Parent’s FAFSA ID?

To complete the FAFSA electronically, your parent(s) will also need to create a FSA ID. 

An FSA ID is a username and password combination that allows them to access federal student aid websites.

This is how your parent can obtain an FSA ID:

  1. Direct them to the Federal Student Aid website (https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account)
  2. Click on the “Create an FSA ID” button.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the FSA ID application.

It’s important to remember that your parent(s) should never share their FSA ID with anyone, including you. 

However, they can grant you access to their information on the FAFSA form electronically using the FSA ID.

This process allows them to transfer their data securely to your application.

Is My Parent a Contributor?

The FAFSA also has a category for a “parent spouse contributor.”

This refers to a stepparent who has not legally adopted you but is married to your biological or adoptive parent. 

While their information isn’t required in all sections, including their financial details can impact your eligibility for certain types of aid.

Here’s how to determine if your stepparent is considered a contributor:

  1. Married to your biological or adoptive parent: If your stepparent is married to your biological or adoptive parent and has not adopted you, they are considered a contributor.
  2. Financial support: Even if not legally required, if your stepparent provides significant financial support for your basic needs (housing, food, clothing), they may be considered a contributor.

If your family situation is complex or you’re not sure who qualifies as your parent for FAFSA purposes, it’s always best to consult a financial aid counselor at your school or a trusted financial advisor.

They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you complete your application accurately.