Verification
The U. S. Department of Education (USDOE) has made major changes to the verification process beginning with the 2012-13 school year.
What is Verification?
Verification is a comparison of the information reported on the 2012-13 FAFSA with the 2011 IRS Tax Transcript(s) and other external documentation.
Do I have to complete the verification process?
If you were selected by the USDOE or Financial Aid Office, you MUST complete the verification process in order to receive federal, state, and some types of university aid.
What do I need in order to complete the verification process?
If you did not use the IRS Data Retrieval Match Process you will need to provide:
- 2011 Student (and Spouse) IRS Tax Transcript(s)*
- 2011 Parent(s) IRS Tax Transcript(s)*
*Do not send copies of the IRS 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ as in the past. These documents are no longer acceptable for verification.
Where can I request a copy of the Tax Transcript?
- Call the IRS helpline at 1-800-829-1040
- Visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov and select "Order Tax Return Transcript" - not an account transcript
You may be required to send in signed statements regarding your household size, number of students in your family who are attending college at least half-time, and child support paid. This is normally provided on the Verification Worksheet. If you received food stamps, you must provide a copy of the letter you received from the issuing agency.
Who am I allowed to include in the household?
Only Include family members who were reported on your FAFSA.
Who am I allowed to include in the number in college?
You may include other family members only if they will attend at least half-time in the 2012-13 school year, and are enrolled in a program that leads to a college degree or certificate. Do NOT include your parents.