12 Proven Ways to Legally Maximize Your 2026–27 Financial Aid

1. Submit BEFORE your state priority deadline
   Even one day late can cost $5K–$25K in state grants (Illinois, Georgia, etc. run out fast).
2. List the parent who provides MORE financial support (divorced/separated families)
   → Can cut SAI by $15K+ instantly.
3. Exclude small family farms & businesses (≤100 employees)
   New OBBBA rule = 100 % exempt → some families drop from SAI 18,000 → –1,500.
4. Max out 401(k), HSA, and other retirement contributions in 2024
   These are no longer counted as untaxed income in 2026–27.
5. Pay down consumer debt instead of saving in the student’s name
   Student assets are assessed at 20 % vs. parent assets at only 5.64 % max.
6. Use the SAI calculator every month in 2025 to test scenarios before December 31.
7. Grandparent-owned 529 plans are now 100 % invisible (no longer reported).
8. Avoid capital gains & Roth conversions in 2024 → spikes AGI.
9. Take required minimum distributions (RMDs) in 2024 instead of 2025 for seniors.
10. File taxes early and use IRS Direct Data Exchange → fewer verification flags.
11. Appeal your SAI with Special Circumstances (job loss, medical bills, etc.)
12. Apply to multiple colleges → some match better aid packages.

Real 2026–27 Case Studies (Names changed)

Start with the free SAI calculator → then apply these 12 steps. Many families are shocked how much more they qualify for this year.