My mom won't pay taxes, can I go to college?

[Ashleymor88]

Ok, here we go. Until three years ago I lived with my father, who always paid his taxes, then he died and now I'm living with my mom, who hasn't paid her taxes in over 5 years. The problem, I'm a senior in high school trying to applying for financial aid, but my mom doesn't have a tax return for Fasfa,so i can't apply for scholarships or aid. now I no longer live with my mom, but my sister. I'm 17 and won't turn 18 until after all college deadlines. I heard that if I'm emancipated I can file with my own tax return, which there will be one. I have good standings at my school, I'm number 4 in my class, president of the debate, accounting, and drama clubs. Basically an all around good kid, who wants desperately to go to college, any ideas? Does anyone know where I need to begin? Thanks so much.

[Mr. Knowitall]

You're going to have to explain the situation to the college financial aid office, to try to qualify for aid despite your mother's refusal to file her taxes.