they only care aobut the tax return from 2 yrs ago none of the other stuff matters

Just wanted to update everyone - I finally got through to someone at FSA who explained everything clearly. For 2025-2026 FAFSA, we'll use our 2023 tax info as many of you mentioned. I'll need to report special circumstances to each school individually - there's no standard form. Apparently, even though our income is higher now, they still want to know because it affects the overall financial picture (assets, retirement status, etc.). The agent recommended documenting the change with a simple letter explaining the retirement and new income sources, along with current pay stubs and pension statements. Thanks everyone for your help! This process is so much more complex than I expected.

Update: I finally got through the entire application! For anyone who might have the same problem in the future, what worked was: 1) Using the suggestion to enter the full date without pausing, 2) Using the TAB key instead of clicking between fields, and 3) Making sure I entered dates in MM/DD/YYYY format. After that, I had one more glitch on the signature page but managed to fix it by clearing my browser cache and cookies. Thank you all for your help - this community saved my sanity!

That's great news! And thanks for posting your solution - it will definitely help other parents facing the same issues. Just a heads up - you might want to check your SAI calculation once it's processed (usually takes 3-5 days). There have been some calculation errors in the new system, so it's worth comparing your SAI result against what your expected family contribution should be based on your financial situation.

the whole fafsa system is a JOKE!!! I applied Dec 30 (literally the day it opened) and STILL processing. Meanwhile my roommate applied feb 1 and got her SAI in 10 days. HOW DOES THAT MAKE ANY SENSE?? The dept of education is completely incompetent and doesn't care that they're ruining students' futures. I've called 9 TIMES and can't get through to anyone. This is my last chance at affording college and they're screwing me over.

Final update for anyone finding this thread later: My SAI finally came through this morning! Total processing time was 6 weeks and 5 days from submission. For those still waiting - try calling FSA directly as there might be hidden issues with your application that don't show up online. And definitely notify your schools about the delay - mine were all understanding and said they're seeing this with lots of students.

my brother got ripped off by one of those private loan companies few years back... they had all these hidden fees and the interest was wayyy higher than they first said. make sure u read EVERYTHING before signing!!!!

Just wanted to add that when comparing private loan options, look beyond just the interest rate. Some important factors to consider: 1. Repayment flexibility - can you get forbearance if needed? 2. Death/disability discharge provisions (federal loans have these automatically) 3. Cosigner release options - how long until your cosigner can be removed? 4. Customer service reputation - check reviews from current borrowers Also, consider taking only what you need for this year rather than borrowing for multiple years at once. Your financial situation might improve, or you might qualify for more aid or scholarships next year.

That's great news! The extension should give you enough time based on current processing speeds. If you need to follow up with FSA, definitely try doing it sooner rather than later, as call volumes tend to increase dramatically in March.

So glad they were understanding! Most schools are pretty flexible if you explain the situation.