The U.S. Department of Education has released a new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to help institutions understand the recently implemented real-time FAFSA fraud detection and identity confirmation process.
The FAQ provides additional clarification on the Department’s existing fraud prevention initiative, including how schools should handle identity confirmation, fraud-related FAFSA comment and reject codes, institutional responsibilities, and other operational scenarios. The guidance is intended to help financial aid administrators consistently apply the new requirements and better understand the processes introduced earlier this year.
The FAQ is organized into five sections:
- Identity Confirmation Methods and Standards
- Fraud Comment Codes, Rejects, and V4/V5
- FAA Fraud Override and Inter School Coordination
- Special Populations and Scenarios
- Compliance, OIG Reporting, and Prior Year Aid
Institutions should review the FAQ and keep it as a reference for financial aid staff.