Summary

• Purpose: The policy of verification is implemented by the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that the financial aid provided to students is based on accurate and consistent information.

• Process: If selected for verification, students must provide additional documentation to confirm the information provided on their FAFSA® form. 

• Steps Involved: The verification process involves being notified of selection, gathering and submitting the necessary documents, and receiving results. It is important to respond promptly and provide accurate information throughout the process.

Verification is a process through which the U.S. Department of Education verifies the accuracy of the information provided on your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). The goal of verification is to ensure that the financial aid awarded to students is based on accurate and consistent information.

If you are selected for FAFSA® verification, it means that you need to provide additional documentation to confirm the information you reported on your FAFSA® form. The selection can be random, or it can be triggered if your application contains inconsistent or conflicting information.

Here are the steps typically involved in completing the FAFSA® verification process:

1. Notification: The first step is to be aware that you have been selected for verification. You will receive a notification from the financial aid office of the school(s) listed on your FAFSA® form. The notification may come via email, letter, or through your online student portal.

2. Review the Verification Requirements: Read the notification carefully to understand what documents and information you need to provide for verification. Each school may have its own specific requirements, but common documents include tax return transcripts, W-2 forms, and verification worksheets.

3. Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents based on the school's requirements. This may include tax transcripts or copies of tax returns, documentation of untaxed income, verification worksheets, and other supporting documents. Make sure to follow the school's instructions regarding which documents are required.

4. Complete Verification Worksheets: Some schools may provide verification worksheets that you need to complete. These worksheets typically require you to provide detailed information about your family's income, household size, and other relevant factors. Fill out the worksheets accurately and thoroughly.

5. Submit Documents: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed any required worksheets, submit them to the financial aid office of each school you are attending or considering attending. You can usually submit the documents electronically, by mail, or by fax, depending on the school's preferred method.

6. Review Process: The financial aid office will review the documents and compare the information provided with what you reported on your FAFSA® form. They may request additional documentation or clarification if needed. It is essential to respond promptly and provide any additional information requested.

7. Verification Completion: After reviewing the submitted documents, the financial aid office will determine if any adjustments need to be made to your financial aid award. If everything is accurate and matches the FAFSA® information, the verification process is considered complete.

8. Updated Financial Aid Award: If any changes are made to your financial aid award as a result of verification, the financial aid office will notify you of the adjustments. You will receive an updated financial aid package outlining the aid you are eligible to receive or the amount you will need to return if the award is reduced and has already been disbursed.

Remember, it is crucial to complete the verification process promptly and provide accurate information to ensure that your financial aid is processed correctly. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact the financial aid office of the respective school(s) for guidance.