FAFSA Verification
FAFSA Verification Information and Procedures
Note: Files completed for verification by the July 1, 2010 priority deadline will be given first consideration for processing in order to allow earliest possible distribution of student aid funds. After July 1, files are processed based upon receipt date and completion of financial aid file.
When a student files the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the U.S. Department of Education will send results of the FAFSA called the Student Aid Report to the student via postal mail or by email. On this report will be a comment which indicates if the student has been selected for the verification process. Not all students are selected by the U.S. Department of Education for verification. The Financial Aid Office will also receive notification from the U.S. Department of Education and will correspond with the student as well. It is imperative that the mailing address for the student remain current with the college for this reason.
The verification process requires the college to collect additional documents from the student and his/her family in order to verify information provided on the FAFSA. Along with the verification worksheet, the student will need to provide the Financial Aid Office with all necessary documents and information outlined in Section C of the verification worksheet. Depending on individual situations, additional documents may be requested as needed. It is the student's responsibility to make sure the Financial Aid Office receives the items requested in a timely manner.
To avoid delay in processing of your federal student aid:
- All tax returns must be signed by the appropriate taxpayer outlined on the form
- Provide W-2's for each person whose income is on your FAFSA
- Amounts reported on the Verification Worksheet are to be annual/per year figures, not monthly
- All questions requiring a dollar amount must be completed and cannot be left blank
- The verification worksheet must be signed by all applicable parties
- If you marked separated or divorced as your marital status on the FAFSA, but filed a joint return with your spouse, you will need to provide a copy of your W-2's
- If there are further discrepancies on the worksheet regarding other income information reported, additional documents could be requested at a later date