As students across Illinois gear up for college, parents and grandparents play a vital role in helping them navigate the process of securing financial aid. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step toward receiving scholarships, grants, and other financial support. Fortunately, there are trusted college financial aid resources in Illinois to guide families through the process.
Below, we highlight two essential services that provide FAFSA support for Illinois students and families.
1. Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)
The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) offers free FAFSA help in Illinois through virtual FAFSA counseling sessions. These one-on-one sessions take the confusion out of the application process and can be completed in as little as 30 minutes with the guidance of an ISAC expert.
To schedule a free session, visit the ISAC website.
These FAFSA counseling sessions in Illinois provide personalized assistance, ensuring students and families are equipped to complete their applications correctly and on time.
2. Federal Student Aid Office Help Line
For additional questions or quick assistance, the Federal Student Aid Office help-line is a valuable resource. Students can use it to get answers during the FAFSA process and receive application assistance for any difficulties they encounter.
For quick assistance, visit the Federal Student Aid Office Help Center or call 1-800-433-3243.
Encourage your student to reach out with any questions they encounter along the way. FAFSA application tips from the experts can make a real difference in maximizing aid eligibility. These experts are committed to helping students maximize their financial aid opportunities.
Why Free Resources Are the Best Starting Point
While there are paid consultants available to assist with FAFSA applications, ISAC and the Federal Student Aid Office are dedicated to helping students secure financial aid for college. These services are trusted, accessible, and designed to be family-friendly, making them the best first step for families navigating the financial aid process.
Encourage your student to ask lots of questions and take full advantage of these expert services. The guidance they receive can make a real difference in helping them get the most out of their financial aid package.
FAFSA help for parents and grandparents is also available through ISAC to ensure the whole family is prepared.
By using these free resources, Illinois parents, grandparents, and students can confidently tackle the college financial aid process. With the right support, families can maximize financial aid and focus on preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Final thought.
As families prepare for college expenses, setting clear financial goals can make all the difference in achieving both education funding and other financial objectives. Whether you’re focused on saving for a child’s education, building a strong investment strategy, or adapting to life’s financial changes, having a trusted plan is essential. If you have a net worth over $2 million and are ready to take the next step in managing your wealth for future milestones, the Peak Wealth Planning team is here to help you achieve your financial goals with confidence.
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About the Author
Peter Newman is a Chartered Financial Advisor (CFA®) and president of Peak Wealth Planning. He works with individuals nationwide that have accumulated wealth through company stock, ESOP shares, real estate, or running a business. Peter applies his unique background to help clients achieve their specific goals and enjoy peace of mind.
Peak Wealth Planning offers personalized concierge services to meet your wealth management needs, including financial planning, investment management, ESOP diversification, retirement income, insurance, and estate planning. As a fee-based financial advisor based in Chicago, Peak Wealth Planning serves a select group of clients in Illinois and across other states.