The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s a time for celebration and family, it’s also crucial to remember an important task: submitting your FAFSA for the 2025-26 academic year. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open ahead of schedule, and here’s why you should prioritize filing it early, even amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.
Why File Early?
- Maximize Your Aid: Financial aid is often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. By submitting your FAFSA early, you increase your chances of receiving more aid, including grants that don’t need to be repaid.
- Reduce Stress: Knowing your financial aid status sooner allows you to plan better and reduces the stress of last-minute scrambling. You’ll have ample time to compare offers from different schools and make informed decisions without feeling rushed.
- Avoid Missing Out: Last year’s delayed FAFSA rollout led to fewer students applying and, consequently, fewer students attending college. Don’t let that happen to you. Filing early ensures you don’t miss out on crucial financial support.
How to Get Started
- Visit the FAFSA Website: Head to studentaid.gov to start your application. You’ll need your Federal Student Aid ID or Social Security number to create an account.
- Gather Your Documents: Have your financial information ready, including tax returns and bank statements.
- Submit and Relax: Once you’ve submitted your FAFSA, you can enjoy the holidays knowing you’ve taken a significant step towards securing your college funding.
Remember, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing the financial aid you need. So, amidst the holiday cheer, take a moment to file your FAFSA and set yourself up for success in the upcoming academic year.
Happy Holidays and Happy Filing!
Did You Know?
Your employer sponsors this financial wellness benefit from Francis LLC. The benefit connects you with down-to-earth financial planners who educate and advise on any money matters…without the sales pitch. We are exclusively engaged by employers like yours and have no investment products to sell, so you can feel confident that you will always receive objective advice.
Your financial planner will help you set priorities and achieve your money goals, without judgment or financial jargon. Know that all discussions are kept strictly confidential. This service is offered as an employee benefit with no per-session co-pays, so you can meet with a financial planner as often as you wish. Services are paid by your retirement plan or your employer.
Connecting with a financial planner is easy! Here’s how:
- Visit FrancisWay.com > Services > Participant Portal
- Call (866) 232-6457
Download the free mobile app (Search for Francis LLC)
