Each year, the U.S. Department of Education randomly selects approximately 22% of those who complete the FAFSA for a process called verification. If selected, there’s no need to worry! Verification is simply designed to make sure information submitted on the FAFSA matches actual tax records.
If you’re selected, you will need to complete a Verification Worksheet and submit tax transcripts for both the parent and student. Your financial aid counselor will compare the figures on the tax documents with what you reported on the FAFSA and make updates to your record if necessary. If you have already received an award before verification is complete, a revised award may be sent.