What is Verification?
Verification is a process used to confirm the information you have provided on the FAFSA—Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Verification selection can either be random or because there was incomplete, estimated or inconsistent data with your FAFSA. The U.S. Department of Education and/or John A. Gupton College selects students for the verification process, but not all students are selected.
To determine if you have been selected by the Department of Education, you can review your Student Aid Report. The Department of Education is beginning to customize the verification process, therefore, it is necessary for each student to review the requirements and complete the correct documents needed for completion.
The verification process requires collection of documents from the student to confirm the information on your FAFSA. Along with a verification worksheet, the student will need to provide the Financial Aid Office with all necessary documents and information indicated on the verification worksheet. Depending on individual situations, additional documents may be requested as needed. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure the Financial Aid Office receives the items requested.
Requirements for Completing Verification:
- Verification Worksheet— You (and your parent if applicable) must complete the verification worksheet given to you by the Financial Aid office.
- Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool on the FAFSA to import your processed tax information to the FAFSA, or provide the Financial Aid Office a copy of the tax return transcript you have received from the IRS. (Tax Return Transcripts can be ordered from the IRS by calling 1-800-908-9946 or by going to www.IRS.gov)
- Any necessary W-2 Forms
- When the Financial Aid Office receives all of the required documents, they will review and complete the verification process. If a discrepancy is found, changes may need to be made on your FAFSA and submitted back to the U.S. Department of Education. Changes are then processed by the U.S. Department of Education, and you will receive a revised SAR, which should reflect the updated award information. Once the verification is complete and any necessary changes are made, you are awarded the appropriate financial aid.
- Failure to complete the verification process may result in suspension of all federal funds and leave your student account unpaid.
- You can return the required forms to the Financial Aid Office in person or by mail.