FAFSA contributor switch worked! Changed from myself to spouse after weeks of errors

Finally got my son's FAFSA to go through after fighting with the system since January! The application kept freezing every time I tried to add his test scores and financial info. The error message was super vague - just 'unable to process request' with no explanation. I called FSA 8 times and each representative gave different advice. What FINALLY worked: removing myself as the contributor and adding my wife instead. Literally completed the whole application in 45 minutes after that switch when I'd been stuck for almost 9 weeks! If you're experiencing weird technical issues, try switching contributors. Has anyone else had to do this weird workaround? I'm relieved but also annoyed it took so long to figure out.

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13 comments

Charlotte Jones

•9M

This is actually a known issue with the new FAFSA system that occurs with certain tax filing situations. When one parent has specific tax forms or schedules (especially Schedule C or E filers), the system can fail to properly validate their information. The contributor switch works because the system processes the second parent's information differently. For anyone experiencing this issue: 1. First try clearing your browser cache and using a different browser 2. Make sure you're using the most recent W-2 and tax information available 3. Try the contributor switch as mentioned 4. If you're still facing problems, contact your school's financial aid office directly The Department of Education is aware of these technical issues with the FAFSA and is working on solutions.

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Harper Thompson

•9M

For the FSA ID verification issue, make sure the personal information matches EXACTLY what's on file with the Social Security Administration. Common errors include: - Using a nickname vs. legal name - A recent change of address not updated with SSA - Phone number not matching what's on file - Formatting birthdate incorrectly If that doesn't work, there's a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that can help you get through to an actual FSA agent without the hours of waiting. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/TbC8dZQWYNQ I used it after struggling for weeks with verification issues and managed to get everything fixed in one call.

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Charlotte Jones

•9M

SAI miscalculations have been a significant problem this year. Once you receive your SAI, carefully review the income figures used in the calculation. If there are errors, you should: 1. Take screenshots of the incorrect information 2. Contact your student's financial aid office immediately 3. File a correction through studentaid.gov 4. Request a professional judgment review if the error significantly impacts your aid Schools are aware of these systemic issues and many have extended their priority deadlines accordingly.

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