Ways To File Your FAFSA

In addition to the paper filing method, there are several other ways to file your FAFSA, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Before you embark on filing your FAFSA, you must first determine how you will apply. Each submission method requires you to prepare differently. When choosing your method, ensure that you have complete confidence in how you are submitting the information, whether via phone, email, or mail, as you will be disclosing significant amounts of private information.

Filing Your FAFSA Online
The easiest and most convenient method for filing your FAFSA is through the Internet. When you apply online, you can print worksheets that will help you gather the information you need to file. These worksheets contain blanks that are easy to fill in and complete. Preparing the worksheets before filling out an online FAFSA saves you time as well.

With an online application, you also have the luxury of storing your documents on the internet. This allows you to work on them at your own pace. Your documents will always be there when you need them. When you create a PIN number at the Federal Student Aid PIN Number Website, it allows you to securely sign and store information online.

It is easier to catch mistakes and misspellings with the online FAFSA application. Poor handwriting will not be a factor with the online method, which eliminates potential confusion during the review of your application.

When you apply online, you receive notifications through email. Not only does this eliminate relying on the postal service, but is saves money, time, and paper as well. Email documents and notifications are harder to lose than paper documents.

You can check the status of your FAFSA application at all times when you use the online application method.

In addition, decisions on your federal student aid package are made sooner when you apply online.

Apply With a Counselor
During the process, you may want in-person consultation when applying for federal student aid. In this case, you can check your high school or library for resources.

Most high schools have an office where you can obtain a paper FAFSA. Also school codes, school tuitions, worksheets, and other help guides are available. If you have any questions, you should ask your counselor or teacher to help you fill out your application.

While the paper method could take longer than the rest, you should also to check to see if your counselor can help you online.

Apply By Phone
Several websites now offer an apply-by-phone option. To apply by phone, you must first find a company who offers this option. They will normally advise you to gather all of the information on yourself and other people who will be on the application.

Once you have prepared the information, you call their number, and an operator or phone-counselor will fill out a FAFSA on your behalf.

The time to complete the call varies, while most average at fifteen minutes. While this is a convenient method, it does cost money. At times, this could cost up to $200.00. Also, the time you receive your decision may vary. In addition, you will want to ensure that the company is completely legitimate, or else you can risk exposure to identity theft.

Regardless of which method you choose, it is critical that you are fully aware of deadlines. Deadlines are crucial when applying for federal student aid, both from the government and your particular university or college. The closer to January 1st you apply, the more aid you will receive. You can apply any time between January 1st of the school year you are applying for and your school’s financial aid deadline. Our website contains many resources on how to fill out your FAFSA accurately and effectively, taking you step-by-step through the process.