Disclaimer: Please note that there has been considerable updates to the FAFSA application and the verification process may have changed. The Better FAFSA opens December 31st 2023. Stay up to date with federal announcements and changes.
Here’s what to do if you've been flagged for FAFSA verification
Disclaimer: Please note that there has been considerable updates to the FAFSA application and the verification process may have changed. The Better FAFSA opens December 31st 2023. Stay up to date with federal announcements and changes.
About a third of FAFSA applications are selected each year for a review process called verification. The purpose of verification is to make sure there are no errors on your original FAFSA. Some of the most common flags include a recent change of address, inconsistencies between earnings reported on taxes versus what was reported on the FAFSA, and if your family did not file taxes at all for the tax year being reviewed.
There is no way to completely avoid getting flagged, some schools flag all of their students for verification and others simply choose at random.
In your FAFSA Submission Summary, next to your Student Aid Index (SAI), there may be an asterisk* if you have been flagged for verification.
After you file your FAFSA, you will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary from the Department of Education that gives you basic information about your eligibility for financial aid. You will also receive an email from each school that you’re accepted into.
If you don’t see any emails, here are some phrases to search for in your inbox AND spam:
FAFSA verification
Missing Documents
Action Required
Non-filing status
Be sure to complete all paperwork accurately and provide required signatures before submitting.
Don’t wait to call your college’s financial aid office if you’re confused.
Free templates to help you appeal your financial aid
Read MoreLearn how to view and compare your financial aid award letters
Read MoreHow to renew your FAFSA each year so you can continue to receive financial aid for school.
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