Filling Out the FAFSA: One of My Parents Has Died
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
When can I update my FAFSA application? The redesigned FAFSA for the 2024-25 academic year is available at FAFSA.gov. After major delays, the FAFSA corrections process opened on April 16 to students and families who submitted incorrect or incomplete forms.
You can still submit the 2023-24 FAFSA until June 30, 2024.
Students with deceased parents may need to submit death certificates or other proof to their college, making the financial aid application process emotionally difficult for grieving students.
For the FAFSA, do not report your deceased parent’s income.
If your deceased parent was your custodial parent and you are not financially dependent on your non-custodial parent, you may be eligible for a dependency override.
If your parent has died after you have submitted the FAFSA, contact your school immediately and let them know.
» MORE: Your FAFSA questions answered
Student loans from our partners
on Sallie Mae
Sallie Mae
4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5
NerdWallet rating4.5% - 15.49%
Mid-600's
on Sallie Mae
on College Ave
College Ave
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating4.07% - 15.48%
Mid-600s
on College Ave
on Ascent
Ascent
5.0
NerdWallet rating5.0
NerdWallet rating4.09% - 15.66%
Low-Mid 600s
on Ascent
Steps for filling out the FAFSA if you have a deceased parent
Submit financial information for your remaining parent, including their income and assets.
Do not submit your deceased parent’s financial information, even if they died within the past year and you have their tax returns and financial documents.
If your parent died after you submitted your FAFSA, submit a correction updating your information. Contact your university’s financial aid office and explain your situation; see if they have university-specific advice or protocols. They may ask you to submit a death certificate.
On a similar note...
Powered by