A Dependency Override Appeal is used if a student has unusual or special circumstances that prevent them from providing parental information on the FAFSA.
It's important to remember that you must complete the FAFSA before you can apply for a Dependency Override Appeal. The FAFSA allows you to leave off parental information if you have special circumstances.
What circumstances qualify for a Dependency Override?
The U.S. Department of Education provides the following examples of special circumstances:
- You have been legally removed from your parents’ or legal guardians’ home.
- You have a documented case of abuse by parent(s).
- Incapacity of parent(s) such as incarceration, mental or physical illness.
- You are a refugee whose parents are in another country, and you are not able to locate them.
- Other extenuating circumstances that can be sufficiently documented.
What circumstances do not qualify for a Dependency Override?
The circumstances listed below do not qualify as unusual or special circumstances and do not merit a dependency override.
- Your parents do not want to provide their information on your FAFSA; or
- Your parents refuse to contribute to your college expenses; or
- Your parents do not claim you as a dependent on their income taxes; or
- You do not live with your parents.
What documentation is needed for a Dependency Override appeal?
You need to provide a statement that addresses the unusual or special circumstances that prevent you from providing your parent(s)’ information on the FAFSA.
You must also provide a letter from a professional person (counselor, teacher, caseworker, clergy) documenting the unusual circumstances or provide legal documentation. The letter must be on letterhead from the institution/business they represent.
Students requesting a Dependency Override should contact the GCC Financial Aid Office to discuss such appeals.
