Verification

What is Verification?

Verification is a process required by the federal government to ensure that the information submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is accurate. The government selects approximately one out of every three FAFSA filers to be verified.

How do I know I have been selected?

Your Student Aid Report will indicate if you have been selected. New York Tech will also send you a request for information and the required forms we will need from you to complete the process.

Why was I selected?

The U.S. Department of Education uses a formula, which they do not share with colleges or universities, to make selections. Avoiding some common errors while completing the FAFSA and using the IRS data retrieval tool will help make you less likely to be selected.

What is the IRS Data Retrieval Tool?

We strongly recommend using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, which allows the IRS to transfer your tax return information electronically directly to your FAFSA. You can do this when you initially complete the FAFSA, or later by returning to your FAFSA and making a correction. View this quick video to learn more.

What if the IRS Data Retrieval Tool doesn’t work for me?

If you have amended your tax return or your parents may be married, but file separate tax returns, the IRS DATA Retrieval tool may not be ideal. Alternatively, you can provide us with a tax return transcript. There are four ways to request a copy of your or your parent’s tax return transcript:

  • Get Transcript by Mail: Go to irs.gov and click “Get Your Tax Record.” Click “Get Transcript by Mail.” Be sure you request the IRS Tax Return Transcript and NOT the IRS Tax Account Transcript.
  • Get Transcript Online: Go to irs.gov and click “Get Your Tax Record.” Click “Get Transcript Online,” and either create or log in to your IRS account. Be sure you request the IRS Tax Return Transcript and NOT the IRS Tax Account Transcript.
  • Automated Telephone Request: Call 1.800.908.9946.
  • Paper Request Form: Complete IRS Form 4506T-EZ or IRS Form 4506-T.

For 2022-2023 verification, be sure you request your 2020 tax return transcript!

To submit documents and forms to the Office of Financial Aid, please use the secure document submission portal:

Current Students

What happens next?

Once we receive all the requested information, we check the information with your responses provided on your FAFSA. If we find any discrepancies or if we have further questions, we will contact you to make sure everything is accurate. Once we have everything we need, we’ll make any necessary corrections to your FAFSA for you. After that, we’ll finalize your financial aid package.