1. File the FAFSA as early as you can.

The 2017-2018 FAFSA will be available at FAFSA.gov on       October 1. The 2017-2018 FAFSA will require 2015 income information, so applicants will no longer have to estimate income information. There is no downside to filing early, and it is one of the best ways to maximize your   financial   aid  eligibility.

2. Get your FSA IDs now.

The FSA ID is the user name and password students use to access all federal student aid  websites, including FAFSA.gov. All students need an FSA ID. Dependent students will also need one parent to have an FSA ID in order to sign the FAFSA. We strongly recommend that students (and one parent, if applicable) create their FSA ID ahead of time. Go to       fsaid.ed.gov    to create an FSA ID and use       FAME's FSA ID Information Tracking Sheet    to keep track of FSA ID information   .

3. Learn more about the financial aid process.

Regardless of whether you're familiar with the process or new to the world of   financial aid, FAME can help. FAME partners with high schools throughout the state to offer in-person   financial   aid  presentations. Additionally, we will be hosting several on-line webinars during the month of September. For a schedule of these presentations and webinars, please visit FAME's       Events page   .

4. Prepare to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.

Most applicants who were required to file federal income taxes will be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool when completing the FAFSA. We strongly recommend using the tool. To retrieve IRS information, mailing address information must be entered exactly    as shown on the tax return. Having student (and parent, if applicable) 2015 federal income tax return(s) available when completing the FAFSA will make the process easier   .