Why must I include my parent's information when applying for Financial Aid?

If my parent's have decided not to pay for my education, why must I include their information when applying for financial aid?

As long as your under 24, not married or do not have a child, you are a dependent. Meaning your parents income counts. Even if you dont live with them and they dont claim you on taxes. Also if your parents make tons of money, its not fair for you to get Aid when your family does not need it.

A lot of people find themselves in your situation, and the short answer is that the government considers you a dependent even if you don't live with your parents until you turn 24. I guess they do that to make it fair for people whose parents are really poor and don't have the option of deciding whether or not to pay, but it does put you in a rough spot. More information on federal financial aid here:
http://www.tuitionbids.com/student-loan-...

The thing is though, federal aid, even if you do qualify, is so inadequate these days because funding has not increased at the same pace as cost-of-living and rising tuition costs. You may have to resort to a private loan in the end. Will your parents agree to cosign a private loan? The company I represent, http://www.tuitionbids.com, lets you apply with up to 6 different lenders using one application. The idea is that if lots of banks compete for your business, you end up with a lower rate. Just something to keep in mind further down the road.

Good luck!

Simply said, because it is federal law.
By providing their income, they are not obligating them in any way to pay.

Untill you are married, 24 years old, have kids you support, are a veteran, are an orphan, have a bachelor's degree or were a ward of hte court until the age of 18 then you have to list their info. So plan on doing it for the next 4 years.