What is verification?
Verification is the review process used to make sure the information you entered on the FAFSA is accurate. The U.S Department of Education selects a number of students for verification. UMass Lowell may also select students for verification to correct any potential conflicts in information.
If your FAFSA is selected, per federal guidelines, we are required to collect all necessary documentation from you and your parents or spouse (if married). It is your responsibility to provide the required verification documentation as soon as possible.
How will I know if I am selected?
Notifications will be sent via email with instructions to log in to your Financial Aid Portal to view, complete and upload required documents.
What is IRS Direct Data Exchange?
All FAFSA contributors will be required to consent to having their tax data transferred directly from the IRS to the FAFSA. Direct Data Exchange (DDX) establishes a secure connection between the FAFSA and and IRS to input tax data directly to the FAFSA; this will reduce the number of financial questions most families will see.
What other documentation may be necessary?
You may be required to submit documentation to verify your immigration, citizenship, selective service, veteran status, and/or social security number as determined by the U.S. Department of Education.
Additional forms that may be requested include:
- Confirmation of assets form
- Child support confirmation form
- Untaxed income form
Where do I complete verification documents?
You will need to complete your verification tasks online in your Financial Aid Portal where you can securely upload, complete and e-sign all documents from any computer or mobile device. If you are required to complete verification, a link to your FA Portal will be available in your SiS Student Center To-Do List.
How will verification impact my aid?
We provide an estimated financial aid award package when you complete the FAFSA for your family to make informed decisions. The estimated award package may change after the the verification process is completed based on the verified Student Aid Index (SAI).
What else should I know?
- It is important to provide the proper information requested as soon as possible to receive your financial aid.
- You will receive an updated financial aid package if your eligibility changes after the verification process.
- Failure to submit all requested information to complete verification may result in cancellation of financial aid offer.
- Check your SiS To Do List and university email account for reminders of missing documents.
Get detailed information on verification on our Verification Frequently Asked Questions page.
