The FAFSA only gathers financial information from the previous year. For example, the 2009/2010 FAFSA is based largely on income earned in 2008. There are, however, events that affect a family’s financial circumstances that happen after the end of the calendar year. Some of these unfortunate circumstances include the loss of a job or the loss of child support. Since that loss of income cannot be reflected on the FAFSA there should still be a way that that information can be reported, and there is!
The change in family income can be taken into account by filing a special or unusual circumstance appeal to your college. The financial aid director then has the ability to adjust your financial aid package accordingly. It is important to note that changes, even when significant documentation is provided, are not guaranteed.
If you want to file a special circumstances appeal contact the financial aid office at your school to request the appropriate paperwork.
The last paragraph on this page will provide you with the official word from the U.S. Department of Education on the special circumstances process.