This is my first year claiming myself. I will be starting my MS or PHD in August so first I had to grow some you know what to call and tell my dad he can't claim me this year. Considering my parents are experts of guilt trips I'm a little surprised I'm not crying right now.

Anyways....I have always been claimed by my parents because I have never been old enough to be considered independents through FAFSA. Usually I get a couple hundred back from federal but owe the state and it almost always ends up being even.

Will I definitely get more money back this year? Does anyone know if I have to claim financial aid money? And does anyone know if this will mean that I might get more financial aid this coming fall being independent and claiming myself?