If you're returning to school after being away for a while, chances are your life has gotten a lot more complicated. The good news is that there's help. Use the following checklist and linked resources to help you eliminate conflicts before they arise.

Get help paying for school

Find out what aid is available to you. You might be surprised by how much financial aid is available to you, if you ask for help in locating it. Financial aid includes grants, scholarships, and work-study (which don't need to be paid back), and various types of loans. Talk to the financial aid office at the college or training program you are considering to learn more about different types of aid. Each school has a financial aid code you'll need when you apply for federal aid, so ask for that, too.

Apply early! All states use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as the basic financial aid application. Your school may have its own application as well.

Click here for a list of financial aid agencies in each state

File your taxes in January, and fill out your FAFSA right away to get the most financial aid for the following school year. Click here for tips about filling out the FAFSA.

Get help finding and paying for child care

See a list of state childcare referral agencies that can help you find child care or get help paying for child care here.

Get help paying for transportation, books and supplies

Ask your financial aid office, support services office, or case manager if there are any grants or scholarships to help you pay for these necessities. Some states have special programs to help low-income students pay for them.

Get help for a substance abuse addiction

If you have the signs or symptoms of alcohol or drug abuse, make sure to deal with the issue now before it keeps you from reaching your educational and career goals. Click here to find a treatment center near you.

Get help for verbal or physical domestic abuse

Jealous partners can make staying in school difficult or dangerous. Make sure to get help from a counselor or social service agency to deal with this issue right away. Call the National Domestic Violence hotline to talk with someone about the problem and get referrals for help in your area 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY for the deaf).