FAFSA submission with recently mailed 2023 tax returns - wait or proceed now?

You're in a tricky spot. The FAFSA does pull tax information directly from the IRS using the Data Retrieval Tool, so if your return hasn't been processed, you won't be able to use that feature. Paper returns take 6-8 weeks to process (sometimes longer), so waiting could mean missing priority deadlines at some schools which can impact aid amounts.

I had this EXACT problem last year!!!! I submitted the FAFSA anyway and just manually entered all our tax info from our copies. Then after the IRS processed our return (took almost 2 months btw), I went back and did a correction to use the data retrieval tool. It worked fine but my son's school did select us for verification because of it. Just keep copies of EVERYTHING and you'll be ok.

The verification wasn't too bad for us, just annoying. Had to send in copies of W-2s and the tax return. Took about 3 weeks to clear but didn't delay aid disbursement since we got it done before the term started. Just make sure you respond to any verification requests ASAP!

my daughter's school told us DO NOT WAIT!!! better to submit now with manual tax info than miss priority deadlines. you can always do correction later.

I tried calling FSA about this exact issue and spent THREE HOURS on hold before getting disconnected. So frustrating! Has anyone actually managed to get through to a human at FSA lately? I need to ask about amending a FAFSA after submitting with manual tax info.

Am I the only one who thinks it's ridiculous that the FAFSA system is set up this way?? They KNOW tax season and FAFSA season overlap and yet they make it so complicated. In other countries college is just free or affordable without all this paperwork nightmare.

Back to the original question - here's what you should do: 1. Submit the FAFSA now with manually entered tax information (use exact figures from your tax return) 2. Mark that you've "already filed" your taxes 3. When asked if you want to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, you'll get an error, but that's expected 4. After your return is processed (check your IRS transcript online to confirm), go back and submit a correction to use the DRT 5. Be prepared for possible verification - have copies of tax returns, W-2s, and any 1099s ready The most important thing is meeting your school's priority deadline for maximum aid consideration. The SAI calculation will be the same whether you enter data manually or use the DRT, as long as the information matches.

verification isnt always sus, my kid got verified 2 years in a row and we always used the DRT. sometimes its just random. but yeah manually entering does increase chances.

Verification is absolutely not an accusation of fraud - it's partially random and partially based on certain flags in applications. Manual entry of tax info is indeed one of those flags that can trigger verification. About 20-25% of all FAFSA filers get selected for verification, so it's quite common. Just keep good records and respond promptly if selected.

Good luck with your submission! Just wanted to add one more tip - when you're manually entering your tax info, double and triple check those numbers. Even small typos can cause delays or trigger verification. Also, if your daughter's school has a financial aid office, consider giving them a heads up about your situation. Some schools are really understanding about timing issues and can work with you if there are any hiccups. The main thing is you're getting it done before the priority deadline!