Filling Out the FAFSA: One of My Parents Has Died

Do not report your deceased parent’s income when submitting the FAFSA.

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. 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.

Updated
Profile photo of Anna Helhoski
Written by Anna Helhoski
Senior Writer
Profile photo of Alexandra Rice
Edited by Alexandra Rice
Fact Checked
🤓Nerdy Tip

When can I update my FAFSA application? The redesigned FAFSA for the 2024-25 academic year is available at FAFSA.gov. Applications can be submitted until June 30, 2025. The FAFSA for the 2025-26 academic year is expected to open in December 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.

Top Private Student Loan Lenders

Ad

Best Private Student LoanOverall

5.0

/5

NerdWallet rating

Fixed APR

3.59-17.99%

Variable APR

5.34-17.99%

Min. credit score

Mid-600s

on College Ave's

4.5

/5

NerdWallet rating

Fixed APR

3.49-15.49%

Variable APR

5.04-15.21%

Min. credit score

Mid-600's

on Sallie Mae's

on Credible

Steps for filling out the FAFSA if you have a deceased parent

  1. Submit financial information for your remaining parent, including their income and assets.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

Get pre-qualified in just 3 minutes with Credible
Check multiple student loan lenders to get accurate, pre-qualified rates with no impact to your credit score.

Powered by

Spot your saving opportunities
See your spending breakdown to show your top spending trends and where you can cut back.