Unemployed workers - If you received the Pell Grant Information Letter...
The Idaho Department of Labor sent a letter to unemployed workers regarding special situations which could affect financial aid if you are enrolled in school.
What should you do:
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at FAFSA.gov
- Use your actual tax information to complete this online application.
Examples:
For attendance in Fall 2009/Spring 2010 school year - use your actual 2008 tax information
For attendance in Fall 2010/Spring 2011 school year - use your actual 2009 tax information - If your financial situation has changed due to a loss of a job, and your 2008 income was higher than your current income, you can work with the Financial Aid Office to reexamine your award.
- Complete the Special Circumstances Form for the appropriate year (available June 1st)
- It is required that you have documentation of the special circumstance.
- Call the Office of Financial Aid to make an appointment with an advisor.
This is not a new grant created for unemployed workers. The U.S. Department of Education allows the Office of Financial Aid to reevaluate family's financial situation in difficult economic circumstances for the FAFSA (as in the case of a layoff and/or lower wages, divorce, death, etc.).
Students who have already earned a bachelor's degree are ineligible for Pell Grants. Eligibility for federal student aid is based on financial need and on several other factors.