Using an incorrect student social security number -- refer to an official document, such as your Social Security card. The FAFSA cannot be processed without a proper social security number. Do not risk your eligibility for aid by an avoidable error.

Reporting name incorrectly -- report your name as it appears on your Social Security card. Do not use nicknames or Confirmation middle initials. A computer match with the Social Security Administration recorded name must agree with the FAFSA name.

Inserting words in spaces where figures must be reported -- if the answer to an income/asset question is "zero" write the numeral "0" (not NA, or not applicable.)

Reporting cents -- instead, round figures to the nearest dollar. For example, $24,567.29 should be reported as $24,567 (not $24,000).

Misreporting the amount of federal tax paid -- DO NOT report the amount of federal income tax withheld from paychecks, self employment taxes, or amounts paid to states. Report the line item from the tax return as instructed on the application. If a tax return will be filed at a later date, estimate the tax to be paid.

Writing in the margins or outside the answer boxes or spaces. Comments cannot be used in processing the FAFSA. Any attached notes or letters will be destroyed and not reviewed. Contact the Financial Aid Office with any detailed explanations.

Neglecting to report all applicant's assets -- an aunt's or grandparent's fund in the applicant's name at the time of filing the form must be reported as well as any trust funds.

Misreporting the number of people in the family household -- don't take a headcount for this question. Report only the number of family members who will continue to receive more than half support from parents between July 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009. Older children who reside at home but provide more than half of their support should not be included. Review the instructions for this section carefully.

Failure to report federally untaxed income on the application. The most common omissions include: annual IRA and KEOGH contributions, contributions to 401(k) and 403(b) pension plans (review W-2's carefully), earned income credit, and tax exempt interest. Don't assume your family has no untaxed income. Review every item on the verification form or the untaxed income worksheet contained in the application.