New federal initiative simplifies FAFSA forms

The U.S. Department of Education on Monday announced an initiative that will make filing for student federal financial aid easier and allow families to start the process sooner.

The Chicago Tribune reported that “the new plan, which takes effect in fall 2016, allows families to begin the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, in October — three months earlier...”

Another new feature is that families can download tax information filed for the previous year allowing them to complete the financial aid application earlier. The initiative is in response to students and families complaints that the form is too cumbersome, leading many needy students to avoid the process.

Hundreds of colleges and universities are expected to re-adjust their financial aid calenders to align with the education department’s new offer.

This story was originally published September 14, 2015 at 4:24 PM with the headline "New federal initiative simplifies FAFSA forms."