10/23/2026
Before completing the FAFSA, gather your Social Security number, StudentAid.gov login, federal tax records for the required year, current bank and investment balances, records of child support received, and a list of colleges you’re considering. Any parent or spouse required to contribute information will need their own StudentAid.gov account. You and your contributors must also consent to transferring federal tax information directly from the IRS, even if you didn’t file a tax return. Having this information ready can help prevent delays and make applying easier.