The Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) last week announced updates to the process of creating accounts on StudentAid.gov (FSA ID) for individuals without Social Security numbers (SSNs). The most significant of these changes is that FSA has paused the acceptance of new identity documents to the email inbox
for manual identity review and validation and closed the email address IDVerification@ed.gov as, “it works to develop a longer-term solution to the manual identity validation process that avoids the delays
and confusion associated with the current process...[and] enables contributors to use the data transfer function from the IRS.”
In addition, FSA announced that it simplified the attestation process which is now embedded in the StudentAid.gov account creation process and expanded the list of acceptable documents for validating one’s identity. This announcement is particularly relevant
to National College Attainment Network (NCAN) members and anyone committed to helping all students achieve their postsecondary goals, especially those from underserved communities.
Below, we take a close look at the updates and why they matter.
Manual Identity Validation Process Paused and Email Closed
In April, FSA announced that individuals without SSNs no longer had to go through the identity verification process to contribute to a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The agency extended this flexibility in July and has said it will
continue to waive this requirement through the 2025-26 award year. Last week, it announced that it has also paused reviewing and verifying documents submitted through the manual identity validation process, a step that previously required individuals
without SSNs to submit documentation through cumbersome and often time-consuming methods, such as by mail. This process created significant delays and unnecessary barriers for citizen students from US Territories and those contributors without an
SSN.
By pausing this outdated process, FSA is paving the way for a more efficient system in the future that includes a secure portal for uploading identification forms, which will eliminate unnecessary obstacles, allowing students to focus on their educational
aspirations.
Simplified Attestation Process
FSA also introduced a new, simplified attestation process for individuals without SSNs to certify their identity and eligibility on StudentAid.gov. This streamlined approach is now embedded directly in StudentAid.gov account creation process, which minimizes
the paperwork and bureaucracy involved, making it easier for students to access the aid they need to attend and succeed in college. The process now involves a check box certifying the information about identity and the manual Attestation Form is no
longer required for those establishing an FSA ID.
This update is an important step in reducing equity gaps. Many students from immigrant families or non-traditional backgrounds face barriers when accessing financial aid. With a simplified process, NCAN member organizations can better support these students
in completing their applications and pursuing higher education.
Expanded List of Acceptable ID Documents
In an effort to simplify the process of validating one’s identity, FSA has expanded the list of acceptable identification documents for individuals without SSNs. A full list of acceptable identification documents can be found here.
Although Federal Student Aid has suspended the manual identity verification process, the announcement notes that the agency, “will continue current institution-based verification practices related to identity and income verification. As those without
an SSN cannot use the FA-DDX (direct data exchange), they are more likely to be selected for income verification by their institution.”
Additional Resource: FAFSA Guides in Multiple Languages
To further support students and families, FSA has released Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) guides in multiple languages, including
Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. These resources, combined with interpreter assistance options, are critical for ensuring that language barriers do not prevent students from accessing financial aid.
This initiative is particularly relevant to those working with diverse communities. These multilingual guides make it easier to reach students and families who may otherwise struggle to understand the financial aid process, ensuring that no one is left
behind due to language barriers.
NCAN will continue to keep you informed regarding updates to the FAFSA. Stay tuned to our blog, Success Digest, event calendar,
and social media pages for the latest updates.
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