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Do I need an FSA ID to complete my FAFSA®?

Published June 12, 2024| minute read
Hadiya Iqbal

Senior Associate, JPMorgan Chase

    The Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID is a username and password combination the U.S. Department of Education uses as a security measure to verify an individual’s identity.

    While the 2023-24 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) didn’t require students and their parents (and other FAFSA® contributors) to create an FSA ID, with the 2024-25 FAFSA® and going forward it is a requirement.  

    This username and password are used to log into the Department of Education’s online systems. Read on as we dive into more information about the FSA ID and what you need to know about it.

    Is an FSA ID required to complete the FAFSA®?

    Starting with the 2024-25 FAFSA®, students and their parents (if they’re a dependent) won’t be able to access the online FAFSA® without having an FSA ID and password set up. It’s recommended that you and your parent set up your FSA ID before you start the FAFSA® because it can take up to three days for your information to be confirmed.

    Students without access to a computer can receive FAFSA® assistance from a wide range of college access organizations, such as the National College Access Network. Students can also visit a local library, use a computer at school, or get help from a school counselor as other alternatives, too.

    Is the FSA ID for students or parents?

    If you’re a dependent student, one of your parents will need their own FSA ID if they need to electronically sign the FAFSA® form. That’s because if you need to provide your parent’s information on your FAFSA®, your parent will most likely also need to sign the FAFSA®.

    It’s important to note that your parent must create his or her own separate FSA ID — your parent shouldn’t use your FSA ID, and you shouldn’t create an FSA ID for your parent. If you’re unsure whether you’re a dependent student, visit StudentAid.gov for more information.

    How do you create an FSA ID?

    You can create an FSA ID on the FSA website. You’ll be asked to complete the following steps:

    1. Create a unique username and password
    2. Provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and contact information
    3. Provide answers to challenge questions for account recovery
    4. Respond to the verification email or text message

    All new users must set up one more two-step verification method (text, email, or authenticator app) during the “Create an Account” process. Once one or more two-step verification methods are set up, users will receive a security code each time they log in to StudentAid.gov.

    You’ll be able to sign your FAFSA® immediately. However, it'll take time for the Social Security Administration to verify your information and grant you full access to complete other actions with your FSA ID.

    How does a parent create an FSA ID?

    1. Go to the FSA ID website
    2. Fill in the information under “Create an FSA ID,” and then click “Continue”
    3. You’ll be directed to another page with an online form. There, you’ll fill out your personal information, which includes the parent’s name, address, and Social Security number
    4. Once you’ve followed all the instructions, you’ll need to wait while the system confirms your identity

    Only one legal parent needs to create an FSA ID. In the case of separated or divorced parents, this would likely be the parent who provides more financial support. Make sure you know who your legal parent is before filling out the FAFSA® because incorrect information can delay the application process.

    Parents: If you previously created an FSA ID when you were a student, you don’t need to make another one. You can only have one FSA ID linked to your Social Security number.

    How do I find my FSA ID if I lost it?

    If you have an FSA ID but don't remember your username, select "Forgot Username" during the login process on the FSA website. If you verified your email address or mobile phone number when you created your account, you can enter your email address or mobile phone number instead of your username.

    If you have an FSA ID but don't remember your password, select “Forgot Password” on the sign-in page.

    What if my FSA ID has been disabled?

    If you’re getting this error, it likely means that either the name, date of birth, or Social Security number from your FSA ID and FAFSA® don't match. If you checked and they do match, and you’re still getting an error, the owner of the FSA ID can call the FSA Information Center at 1-800-433-3243 for FSA ID assistance.

    Final thoughts

    It can be helpful to create an FSA ID well ahead of filing your FAFSA® so you’re prepared and ready to go when the FAFSA® opens. Likewise, it may be helpful to encourage your FAFSA® contributors, like a parent, to do the same.

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