OTC AskRegs Experts: Understanding Student Marital Status Changes
This week on "Off the Cuff," Tim is joined by David and Norma to do a deep dive on what financial aid professionals should do if a student's marital status changes. The team first discusses how and why a student's marital status would change from when they first filed their FAFSA. David then tells a "dramatic" story, a scenario that he created, to illustrate the rules for updating a student's marital status after their FAFSA is filed.
Speakers
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Tim Maggio |
David Tolman |
Norma Robinson Compliance Generalist & NASFAA U Instructor |
Maria Carrasco Reporter |
This episode of Off The Cuff is brought to you by our NASFAA 2026 National Conference.
Registration is now open for the NASFAA 2026 National Conference taking place June 29 - July 2, 2026, in National Harbor, MD. As you know, there are significant changes underway in the world of federal student financial aid policy. NASFAA 2026 will offer critical and timely professional development to help your institution remain compliant, informed, and student-focused. This conference will bring together thousands of aid professionals for in-depth training on regulatory updates, implementation strategies, and emerging best practices. Register online at nasfaa.org/conference by May 1 to take advantage of early bird discounts.
Resources
- Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
- Episode Transcript (PDF)
- 34 CFR 668.55 Updating Information
- What Are the Rules For Updating the Student's Marital Status After the FAFSA Is Filed?
- Is There a Comment Code To Alert the School When the Student Changes Their Marital Status?
Send your thoughts, questions, and comments. We'd love to hear what you think.
Publication Date: 2/20/2026