Suggested Documentation

Special Circumstance

Required Documentation

Loss of Income or Employment
• Wages/Employment
• Alimony
• Child Support
• Other income reported on the FAFSA

Signed appeal form with explanation of
circumstances
• Proof of separation from employer (unemployment)
• Unemployment benefits
• W2s or paystubs
• Court documentation (child support/alimony)
• Other documentation as determined by
circumstances reported

Separation or Divorce after the FAFSA was filed

(You or your parents separated or divorced after
completing the FAFSA)

Signed appeal form with explanation of
circumstances
• Proof of separation
• Lease or mortgage for each parent showing separate addresses
• Utility bills for each parent showing separate
address

Death of a Parent or Spouse
(Your spouse or parent listed on the FAFSA died after filing taxes)

• Signed appeal form with explanation of
circumstances
• Death certificate
• W2s and taxes
• Death benefits information

Medical/Dental Expenses
• Only paid expenses are considered
• Paid expenses incurred in one 12-month period
• Expenses that are not itemized on the
taxes

Signed appeal form with explanation of
circumstances
• Proof of all out-of-pocket payments reported

One Time Lump Sum Payment Received

(A one-time payment received and reported on the taxes filed)

Signed appeal form with explanation of
circumstances
• Taxes and W2s from current FAFSA
• Taxes from the year before and after the FAFSA in question
• Documentation confirming the amount of the
distribution