<prompt> Human: My stepdad, mom, and I previously agreed that Ill file as an independent since Im not living with them and have started to pay for my tuition rather then have them do it. However, they are still helping me financially in other aspects, like car care.Now my stepdad is asking for a form from my school which he would only need if he put me as a dependent and explained howdy would be beneficial for the two of us, and his tax guy will tell me the same thing. The thing is, I cant trust someone whos employed by my dad, and I think it will be better for me in the long run, since Ill have a bigger break in financial aid.Is there any way to estimate how much Ill be saving in tuition if I file as independent?  <response>: If youre under 24 youre still filing your FAFSA as a dependent either way.You have to be at least 24 or have special circumstances to file for fafsa as independent. 