paying for college

[Chris95]

Are there any legal loop holes in declaring your independence from your parents? (other then marriage, military service, etc)

 

[lawrat]

I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Off the top of my head:

1. Over 18 -- no longer under mom and dad's authority unless you live with them/going to college and they still claim you as a dependent.

If such is the case (they claim as you a dependent) and you are going to school, apply for loans and cards in your own name. Cancel everything you have with them (address, possible shared family cards--take your name off) and that is that.

2. If under 18 -- emancipation-- which takes a very long time and difficult process.

Hope this helps.

 

[Tracey]

I think financial aid requires you to report your parent's income even if you claim you are independent, as long as you're under 24. Look at the financial aid application & see if emancipation will help you.

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This is not legal advice and you are not my client. Double check everything with your own attorney and your state's laws.