As part of the verification process, you will likely have to submit a few documents, which could include:

  • A Completed Verification Web Form: This document tells us whether you, your parents, or spouse earned income in the tax year that the FAFSA is based on and if you filed taxes. You will also be asked to confirm the members of your household.
  • Copies of Your Tax Return Transcript or the IRS Data Retrieval Tool: You will need to submit one of these if you or anyone else who is reported on your FAFSA, including parents or spouse, filed federal taxes in the year that the FAFSA was based.
  • W-2 Forms for All Earned Income: If you or anyone else reported earned income from work on your FAFSA, you may need to submit W-2 forms.
  • IRS Verification of Non-Filing Letter: Students and any parents or spouses who are included on the FAFSA and who did not file taxes may need to verify income they received.
  • High School Completion Status: You may need to submit proof of high school completion. You will find a list of acceptable documentation in your verification portal.
  • Educational Purpose: You may need to submit proof of identification and educational purpose. You will find a list of acceptable documentation in your verification portal.
  • Proof of Food Stamp (SNAP) Benefit: Documentation may be requested if you, your parents, or a member of your household receive food stamp benefits.
  • Proof of Child Support Paid: If you, your spouse, or your parents report that they paid child support on your FAFSA, documentation will be requested.
  • Verification Certification: All students and parents of dependent students are required to sign a Verification Certification that indicates the documents they are submitting are true and that they understand the implications of submitting invalid information.