The verification process is mandated by the U.S. Department of Education to ensure the accuracy of information reported on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education’s regulations require ASCC to verify certain information on the FAFSA for a subset of applicants. This process is essential in maintaining the integrity of the Federal Student Aid programs and ensuring that financial aid is awarded equitably.

Selection for Verification: The Department of Education randomly selects applications for verification or based on certain criteria, such as conflicting information or potential errors. ASCC may select additional applicants for verification, if there is a discrepancy in the information provided or if further documentation is needed to clarify a student’s financial situation.

Required Documentation: Students selected for verification (federal and institutional) must provide documentation to confirm the accuracy of the data reported on their FAFSA. This may include:

• IRS Tax Return Transcripts or signed copies of federal tax returns.

• W-2 forms.

• Verification worksheets provided by the financial aid office.

• Proof of non-filing for students and parents who did not file a tax return.

• Other documents as requested to verify household size, number in college, or other FAFSA data elements.

Deadlines and Processing Time: Students must submit ALL required verification documents by the deadline - 5 days before the last day of instruction. Failure to meet this deadline may result in a delay or loss of eligibility for federal aid. Once all documentation is received, the verification process typically takes two to four weeks. Students are encouraged to submit documents as early as possible to avoid delays in their financial aid awards.

Corrections and Updates: If there are differences between the student's FAFSA and verification documentation(s), corrections will need to be made to the FAFSA, and the student's information will be reprocessed. Changes resulting from verification can affect a student's financial aid award.

Consequences of Non-Compliance: If a student does not submit the requested verification documents by the specified deadline, their financial aid award may be delayed or canceled. The student may also be required to repay any disbursed aid. ASCC reserves the right to withhold disbursement of financial aid until the verification process is complete.

Professional Judgment and Special Circumstances: The financial aid office may use professional judgment to make adjustments to a student’s FAFSA information in cases of special circumstances (e.g., loss of income, high medical expenses). Any adjustments will be documented, and additional verification may be required to substantiate the special circumstances.

Resolving Conflicting Information: In cases where conflicting information is identified, the financial aid office will work with the student to resolve discrepancies. The verification process will not be considered complete until all conflicting information is resolved.

Communication with Students: Students selected for verification will be notified by the financial aid office via email or through self-service. The notification will include a list of required documents for submission.

Compliance with Federal Regulations: ASCC is committed to complying with all federal regulations governing the verification process.