When it comes to financial aid, the word “verification” can sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Request for Verification is simply a review process where your college or the Department of Education confirms the accuracy of the information on your FAFSA. Think of it as a quick double-check to ensure that your financial aid package is based on accurate information so you get the correct amount of aid.
If you’re selected for verification, take a deep breath! It’s completely normal and occurs to multiple applicants each year, as a portion of FAFSA applications are randomly selected, and others are flagged because something needs clarification. Some colleges even verify all applications. The key is to stay calm, stay organized, and most importantly, respond quickly.
What to Do If You’re Selected for Verification
You may find out you’ve been selected for verification through an email or message from the college’s financial aid office, or by seeing a note or symbol next to your Student Aid Index (SAI) on your FAFSA Submission Summary.
Once you’re notified, the school will let you know which documents they need. Commonly requested forms include Federal tax returns or IRS tax transcripts, W-2 or 1099 forms, and Household size and number in college statements.
Follow Instructions Carefully
Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as each school may ask for slightly different materials.
Stay Alert
Check your email and college portals weekly for updates or requests so you don’t miss anything.
Don’t Panic
Remember this is a normal process and not a sign of trouble.
Respond Quickly!
Deadlines are still important! The faster you respond, the faster your aid can be processed.
Double-Check Everything
Always double-check everything to make sure all forms are signed and all pages are uploaded. If you do realize that you made errors on your FAFSA, fix them before you send in your documentation. You can’t change everything, but correct the mistakes you can. If, and only if, you have been selected for verification, you must update certain household information.
Ask for Help
Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure about any part of the request. Reach out to your financial aid advisor (or me!) before submitting.
Using IDOC for Verification
If you’ve submitted the CSS Profile, some schools may use the Institutional Documentation Service (IDOC) to collect verification documents. IDOC allows you to securely upload tax forms, W-2s, and other required files online and share them with all your schools.
You’ll only be able to access IDOC once you’ve received a notification from the College Board. Once that happens you can sign in to IDOC using your College Board account and view and upload the required documents. You can also track the submitted documents, too!
If one or more of your colleges doesn’t use IDOC, you’ll likely upload documents directly through that college’s financial aid portal. Be sure to check your portal regularly for updates or missing information. Read more about Understanding IDOC: How to Upload and Track Your Documents.
Why Timely Verification Response Matters
If you miss verification deadlines, you could lose eligibility for federal, state, or institutional aid. In fact, many students each year lose access to thousands of dollars in grants or loans simply because they didn’t complete verification in time.
Responding quickly and accurately ensures your financial aid package can be finalized, and that you receive the maximum amount of support available.
Verification might feel like a hassle, but it’s really just one last step in confirming your financial aid eligibility. Take your time, stay organized, and communicate with your schools if you have any questions. Once completed, you can rest easy knowing your financial aid is accurate and ready to go.
More about Jodi and College Financial Aid Advisors
Jodi is a FAFSA financial advisor who helps with the financial aid process to help families of college students maximize their financial aid. From completing the FAFSA and completing the CSS Profile to reviewing the SAR, responding to requests for verification, comparing financial aid offers and understanding student loan options, Jodi is a fantastic resource when it comes to student financial aid. Schedule a 15 Minute Power Chat to learn more about finding ways to pay for college.