Some applications are selected for a process called "verification," either by random selection or because of conflicting information on the FAFSA. If your application is selected for verification by our office we will request certain documents from you beginning with the Verification Worksheet, signed copies of your federal tax return, and your parents’ signed tax return (if you are a dependent student). The purpose of verification is to make sure accurate information is provided on the FAFSA. The bottom line is that we want to make sure you’re receiving the very most in financial aid for which you’re eligible, and verification helps ensure that you are.

I thought I already turned everything in for verification. Why are you telling me I need to send more information?

Verification is an ongoing process. For many students it goes no further than turning in the tax returns and the Verification Worksheet. But sometimes we uncover inconsistencies which we need to resolve and document for your file. It’s a good idea to check back with us after submitting your taxes and Verification Worksheet to see if you will need to turn in anything else. We typically send requests for additional information out through the mail.