Special Instructions for Parents Living
Outside the United States
Your unique position of earning U.S. income, while residing in a foreign country, requires special attention when you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Because corrections to the FAFSA must have the parent's signature (power of attorney is not acceptable by the Department of Education), it is good to file an application that does not require subsequent correction.
We realize that sending and receiving mail overseas can be a time-consuming and difficult process. If mail delivery is a significant problem for you, we suggest that you use an address within the U.S. on your FAFSA. For instance, if your employer delivers mail to you by "courier" on a frequent basis, you might wish to list your employer's address.
As you complete your FAFSA, please note the following:
- When completing the Untaxed Income section of the FAFSA, be sure to notice the question for "Housing and other living allowances paid to members of the clergy." Any housing or other type of living allowance that is not included in your W-2 wages (but is reported to the IRS Schedule SE) should be included in the Untaxed Income section (question 93 part g).
- Since the analysis builds in an allowance for your FICA tax, it is important that you do not include self-employment tax in FAFSA question 85. On question 85, use only the amount from form 1040 line 55.
- If you also pay tax to the country in which you reside, do not include this amount on line 85.
Financial Aid Office
2000 West University Street
Siloam Springs, AR 72761
FAX 479.524.7405 or email finaid@jbu.edu
