Gather evidence of your economic need. Create a folder that contains your previous year's income tax form and any other relevant documentation of economic hardship. Such documentation might include notice of a parent's dismissal from her job or unplanned medical bills you have to pay.
Meet with a financial aid counselor from your college. Ask him if school policies exist for requesting more money. Some schools, such as Northwestern University or Washington State University, require formal applications for a financial aid appeal. Collect these forms, if necessary.
Fill out any financial aid appeal forms required by your college, referencing your income tax forms as needed. If no form is required, write a formal letter outlining your need and any special circumstances that may have increased your need since your financial aid package was awarded. Attach a copy of any documentation proving new financial hardships.
Meet with a financial aid officer in person, if possible, to deliver the forms or letter. Speak with them about other options such as outside scholarships or grants. Sometimes scholarship money opens up at the start of the semester if former recipients drop out last minute.