file or don't file taxes? and what happens if i dont?

[romierome2]

So I am a 21 year old college student who was granted financial independence for extenuating circumstances (emotional and previous physical abuse at home). I have since taken out loans (about 7K) to support myself so my parents have not supported me in more than half my expenses. I am also a recipient of the federal pell grant totaling about 6.5K a year. I'm not sure if I should file any taxes, but my parents are not claiming me as a dependent on their tax file. Im wondering how it would affect me doing my FAFSA as well without an IRS tax file.

[AmyC]

You should not file a return if you are not required. It will not affect FAFSA, it has a box to check that you were not required to file. From what you list, you are not required to file. If it makes you feel better, the IRS has a quick quiz, Do I Need to File a Tax Return?