Navigating FAFSA, Taxes, and College Enrollment in Van Buren County, Michigan
Preparing for college can be a daunting task, but residents of Van Buren County, Michigan, have access to a wealth of resources to help them through the process. From FAFSA assistance to tax preparation and college enrollment guidance, here’s a comprehensive guide to the services available in the area.
FAFSA Assistance
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step in securing financial support for college. Fortunately, MI Student Aid offers several options to help students and families navigate this process.
Virtual Financial Aid Presentations
MI Student Aid hosts virtual presentations covering FAFSA application information, federal and state financial aid programs, and scholarship resources. These sessions are an excellent opportunity to gain valuable insights into the financial aid process. Upcoming presentations are scheduled for:
- January 15 and 28
- February 12 and 25
- March 12 and 25
- April 16 and 22
All sessions are held either at 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m., providing flexible options for attendees. More information can be found on the Michigan.gov website.
MI Student Aid Outreach Representative
For more personalized assistance, Van Buren County residents can contact Steve, the West Michigan Representative for MI Student Aid. Steve serves multiple counties in the region and can be reached via email at mistudentaid@michigan.gov or by phone at 888-447-2687.
Tax Preparation Assistance
Accurate tax preparation is essential, not only for general financial health but also because it can impact financial aid eligibility. Van Buren County offers free tax preparation services through VITA:
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
The VITA program provides free tax preparation for individuals earning $58,000 or less. Services are available at two locations:
South Haven:
- Location: Senior Services, 8337 M-140 Street
- Appointments: Available Wednesdays from February 7 to March 20, 2024
- Scheduling: Call 269-468-9410 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Paw Paw:
- Service Type: Drop-off only (return in two weeks to review and pick up)
- Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., February 1 to March 28, 2024
- Scheduling: Call 269-934-3717 (starting January 23)
College Enrollment Assistance
Lake Michigan College – South Haven Campus
Located at 125 Veterans Blvd in South Haven, this campus provides resources related to college enrollment and financial aid. For more information, contact them at (269) 637-7500.
Southwestern Michigan College (SMC) Financial Aid Office
While not in Van Buren County, SMC’s Financial Aid Office is a valuable resource for prospective students in the area. They offer assistance with financial aid applications, including FAFSA, and provide information on private scholarships. The office is located in the David C. Briegel Building, Room 1004, at 58900 Cherry Grove Road, Dowagiac. Contact them at 269-783-2143 or finaid@swmich.edu for more information. By taking advantage of these resources, Van Buren County residents can confidently navigate the college preparation process, from financial aid applications to enrollment. Remember to plan ahead and reach out to these services early to ensure you have all the support you need for your educational journey.
