FAFSA error when parents have no SSN - can I delete and restart? Alternatives?
I've been stuck in FAFSA limbo for almost 3 months and getting desperate. When I try to add my parents' information (they don't have SSNs), I keep getting this frustrating "error, please try again later" message. I've tried at different times of day, different browsers, even different devices - same error every time! I'm thinking maybe I should just delete the entire application and start over using my contributor account instead? Is that even possible once you've already submitted the FAFSA? Also, if I can't get this FAFSA mess sorted out, what other financial aid options exist? Are there alternative programs for students with parents who don't have SSNs? My college deadlines are approaching and I'm getting really anxious about funding my education. Any advice would be so appreciated!
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Jade Lopez
You can't actually delete a submitted FAFSA application, but you can make corrections to it. For parents without SSNs, you should enter all zeros (000-00-0000) in the SSN field. This is the official workaround for your situation. If you're getting persistent errors when trying to make corrections, it could be a technical issue with your specific application. Have you tried calling the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243? They can help troubleshoot the specific error you're encountering and might be able to make the corrections for you over the phone.
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Arjun Patel
•Thank you! I've tried entering zeros but the system just throws another error. I've called that number at least 7 times but I'm always on hold for 45+ minutes and then get disconnected before reaching anyone. It's so frustrating!
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Tony Brooks
have you tried filling out a paper FAFSA? i think thats still a thing and might avoid the system error ur getting. my cousin had similar issues last year with the online form
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Arjun Patel
•I didn't even know paper FAFSA was still an option! That might actually work. Do you know where I can get the form or if there are different deadlines for paper submissions?
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Ella rollingthunder87
For your alternatives question: Yes, there are definitely other options! If FAFSA doesn't work out: 1. CSS Profile - Some private colleges use this for non-federal aid 2. State-specific aid programs - Many states have their own financial aid that doesn't require parental SSNs 3. Institutional scholarships - Apply directly through your college 4. Private scholarships - Many don't require FAFSA completion 5. Some schools have special funds specifically for students whose parents don't have SSNs What state and what type of school are you applying to? That would help with more specific recommendations.
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Arjun Patel
•I'm applying to schools in California, both CSUs and UCs. I'll definitely look into the CSS Profile and state programs. Do you know if California has good state aid options for my situation?
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Yara Campbell
I was struggling with FAFSA phone support for weeks with a similar issue (though it was about verification, not SSNs). After getting disconnected 5 times, I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual FAFSA agent without the wait. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/TbC8dZQWYNQ The agent was able to see the exact error in my application and fixed it while I was on the phone. Saved me from missing my school's financial aid deadline. Might be worth trying since you're dealing with a technical glitch that probably needs direct intervention.
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Isaac Wright
•is this a real service?? sounds kinda sus to me but if it works i might try it cause im having FAFSA issues too
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Yara Campbell
•Yes, it's legitimate. I was skeptical too but was desperate after weeks of trying. They basically connect you through to the actual Federal Student Aid phone line, but they hold your place in line so you don't have to sit on hold for hours. The FAFSA agent I spoke with was an official FSA employee who had full access to my application.
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Maya Diaz
THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO FAIL PEOPLE LIKE US!!! I went through this EXACT SAME THING last year with my dad who doesn't have an SSN. Called 50+ times, never fixed. My financial aid office eventually told me to just file as independent even though I technically didn't qualify. IT WORKED. The FAFSA system is BROKEN for families with mixed immigration status and they know it and don't care!
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Ella rollingthunder87
•I understand your frustration, but filing as independent when you don't qualify is considered misrepresentation and could potentially lead to serious consequences, including having to repay aid and even penalties. There are legitimate ways to address this issue that don't require providing incorrect information.
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Maya Diaz
•WHATEVER. I did what I had to do to get an education. The system doesn't work for people like us, and financial aid officers themselves told me to do this. They know the system is broken.
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Tami Morgan
California resident here! For California schools specifically, you should definitely look into the California Dream Act Application if your parents don't have SSNs. It's specifically designed for students in situations like yours and can qualify you for state aid like Cal Grants. The process is way smoother than FAFSA for families without SSNs.
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Arjun Patel
•Oh that's really helpful to know about the Dream Act Application! Is that only for undocumented students though? I'm a US citizen but my parents aren't.
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Jade Lopez
To answer your question about California specifically: The California Dream Act can help in some cases, but as a US citizen, you should still try to complete the FAFSA first. California also offers: 1. Cal Grants (which can be applied for through FAFSA or Dream Act) 2. Middle Class Scholarship 3. UC-specific programs like Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan 4. CSU-specific grants Two solutions for your current FAFSA issue: 1. Ask your school's financial aid office to help with corrections - they often have direct lines to FAFSA 2. Try using the "Special Circumstances" process if the errors persist - your school can help with this too
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Arjun Patel
•Thank you! I'll contact my school's financial aid office tomorrow to see if they can help with the corrections or guide me through the special circumstances process.
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Tony Brooks
just wondering did u try resetting ur FSA ID? sometimes that fixes weird login errors
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Arjun Patel
•I did try that once, but maybe I should try again. The problem seems to be with the actual application processing rather than logging in, but at this point I'm willing to try anything!
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Ella rollingthunder87
Update: I just checked, and for the 2025-2026 FAFSA, they've actually improved the process for parents without SSNs. The new simplified FAFSA has clearer instructions for this situation. Since we're in the middle of a FAFSA redesign transition, your error might be related to those changes. If you haven't already, try creating a new FSA ID for your parents using the new system - even without SSNs, they should be able to get an FSA ID with an email address. This might bypass the error you're encountering.
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Arjun Patel
•That's incredibly helpful! I didn't realize the process had changed with the new system. I'll try creating new FSA IDs for my parents with just their email addresses. Really hoping this works!
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