I Have Children and ASU Is Asking for Proof of Support; What Does That Mean?

Per federal regulations, you (the student) must be financially supporting a child more than 50 percent in order to be considered independent for financial aid purposes. Accepted forms of financial support include:

• a signed copy of your federal tax return or tax return transcript listing your dependents
• a copy of your health insurance policy showing coverage for the individual in question
• a current lease agreement showing you are the tenant responsible for the rent and the individual in question is listed as an occupant (i.e., not responsible for the rent).  

If you have a child, but do not provide more than 50 percent of their financial support, then you would not be independent by federal regulations. 

If you have a child you support more than 50 percent, but do not have the three acceptable forms of financial support proof, you are encouraged to meet with a financial aid counselor to discuss your specific situation. You do not need an appointment to see a financial aid counselor. Contact Financial Aid and Scholarship Services to speak with a counselor or visit any campus office location.