Verification

When processing FAFSAs, the U.S. Department of Education may select your application for a process called Verification. In this process, the federal government requires colleges and universities to verify some pieces of data reported by you and your parents (if applicable). To avoid delays in awarding and/or disbursing of aid, please respond to all requests for information as soon as possible. 

How will I know if I am selected for verification and what is required? 

Once the Financial Aid Office receives your FAFSA application, we'll notify you of the required information (via UW-Parkside email and by postal mail). At that time, you will also be able to log in to UW-Parkside's Student Information System (SOLAR) and view your 'To Do List' items. 

Why was I selected for verification? 

Verification is a federal regulation. You have done nothing wrong and are not alone. Approximately 30% of FAFSA applications are selected. Incomplete applications, use of estimated information, or inconsistent data can be reasons for selection, although the specific reason is not given to the Financial Aid Office. 

What type of information is being verified?

Typically, information regarding household size, number of students in college,  receipt of food stamps benefits, child support paid, tax information and income earned from work.

What type of documentation is generally required?

Generally,  the following documents are requested:

• The dependent  or independent verification worksheet(depending on circumstances)
• Copies of your tax transcripts (if filed) and  your parents (if filed)  (not required if you use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool)
• Copies of both your W-2's and your parents

Where do I send the required documentation?