2023-2024 Petition for Dependency Override

This petition is to be completed only if you are currently considered dependent when applying for federal student aid, but through extenuating circumstances you feel that you should be considered independent and you are requesting a dependency override. Please read and complete this form carefully, following steps 1-3, and submit it with appropriate documentation to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Please Note the Following:

• Examples of situations where petitions may be approved are documented abandonment, parental drug abuse, parental mental incapacity, physical or emotional abuse, parental incarceration or severe estrangement.
• A successful petition for a dependency override depends on the specific information and documentation you are able to provide. Therefore, copies of appropriate court documents may be required to support your petition. Please be as complete and thorough as possible.

None of the conditions listed below, singly or in combination, qualify as unusual circumstances meriting a dependency override:

• Parents refuse to contribute to the student's education.
• Parents are unwilling to provide information on the FAFSA or for verification.
• Parents do not claim the student as a dependent for income tax purposes.
• Student demonstrates total self-sufficiency.
• Federal funds are not awarded to help students establish their independence.
• In all cases, independence must have occurred out of necessity rather than choice.

Step One

Write a personal statement addressing the following items:

• Identify the location of both parents.
• Describe the last time you had contact with each parent - when, where, and nature of contact.
• Explain what circumstances make you independent from your parents and WHEN you became independent.
• Describe how you have provided for yourself (shelter, food, clothing, transportation, medical care, etc.) and WHEN you started meeting your own expenses without parental support.

Step Two

Submit at least two letters from responsible adults who personally have knowledge of your situation and can verify your circumstances.

• It is preferable that at least one of the letters is written on a professional letterhead from a guidance counselor, clergy person, social worker, physician, or another individual who has been involved in your circumstances in a professional capacity.
• At least one letter must be from someone who is not a relative or personal friend.
• All letters must include a telephone number and address where the individual can be reached for follow-up questions.

Step Three

If you have not already submitted yoru 2023-2024 Financial Aid Application (FAFSA), you may complete all student sections of the FAFSA and attach them to this petition. If your petition is approved, your Financial Aid Coordinator will note the approval of the petition and mail your FAFSA to the federal processor. If not approved, your FAFSA will be returned to you with a letter of explanation. If you have already submitted your 2023-2024 FAFSA, notify the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. You will be instructed on what to do if your petition is approved.

Have Questions About Your Financial Aid?

Financial Aid Office Contact Information

Address: ATTN: Financial Aid Office 3240 Fort Rd., Toppenish, WA 98948 | Phone: (509) 865-8502 | Email: financial_aid@heritage.edu