FAFSA identity verification problem for non-US citizen parent without SSN - system keeps hanging up

Oh man, I feel your pain! The FAFSA system is HORRIBLE for non-citizen parents. My husband went through the exact same thing last year. He'd wait for like 45 minutes and then get disconnected right when someone was about to pick up!!! So frustrating. Have you tried calling at different times? Very early morning (like 8am EST) seemed to work better for us, but it still took like 5 attempts.

hve u checked ur spam folder for the email? sometimes fafsa emails go there. thats where mine was

This is a common issue for non-citizen contributors. The FAFSA system requires additional verification for parents without SSNs because they need to confirm your identity through alternative means. Here's what you need to do: 1. Make sure you entered your Alien Registration Number correctly if you have one 2. Have your tax information ready (even if filed in another country) 3. Prepare alternative ID documentation (passport, visa, etc.) 4. You might need to submit these documents after speaking with a representative The verification process typically takes 3-5 business days once you've submitted everything correctly.

I had trouble getting through to FAFSA last month when trying to fix an SAI calculation error. I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through - they have this service that basically waits on hold for you and calls you when a real agent is on the line. Saved me hours of frustration! They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/TbC8dZQWYNQ

As a non-citizen contributor, you'll need to complete the Special Circumstances Identity Verification process. This requires speaking to a FSA agent directly, who will ask you specific questions about your immigration status and financial information. They'll then send you a verification link that's good for 72 hours. Different documentation is required depending on your specific status: - If you have an ITIN: Tax return transcript and photo ID - If you have an A-Number: Permanent resident card - If you're on a visa: Visa documentation and passport Make sure all your documents are ready before calling so you can complete the process in one session.

I finally got this resolved for my dad who's in the same situation. Try calling exactly when they open at 8AM Eastern. Also, use a landline if possible - cell connections seemed to drop more often for us. And have your FSA ID and your daughter's FSA ID ready because they'll ask for both to verify. The whole verification process took about 10 minutes once we actually got through to a person, and then his account was approved the next day.

omg the fafsa system is literal GARBAGE for international parents!!!! my mom is canadian and we went through this exact nightmare last year. keep trying the phone. also try the live chat option on the studentaid.gov website sometimes thats faster

my freind who works in financial aid at a college told me that a lot of non-citizen parents are having this problem with the new FAFSA system. apparently its a known issue? she said sometimes going through the college financial aid office is faster than dealing with FAFSA directly. might be worth asking your daughters school if they can help

Update: I used the Claimyr service that someone mentioned earlier and it actually worked! Got through to a FAFSA agent in about 40 minutes (without me having to sit on hold). They verified my identity, asked for my passport information and ITIN, and sent me a secure upload link for my documents. Now just waiting for the verification to process. Thanks everyone for your help!

I'm so glad this worked out for you! As someone who's been through the FAFSA nightmare with international documentation, I just wanted to add that once your identity is verified, make sure to save/bookmark that verification confirmation page if they give you one. Sometimes the system glitches and asks you to verify again later, and having that confirmation number can save you from going through this whole process again. Also, if your daughter's school uses their own financial aid forms in addition to FAFSA, get those submitted ASAP while this is all fresh in your mind. Good luck with the rest of the process!