What is Verification?

Verification is a process whereby the information reported on the FAFSA is confirmed with tax returns and other documents. Since the FAFSA may be filed prior to tax filing, it is crucial that our office ensure that the information is accurate and that the funds are awarded only to eligible students.

Such documentation may include signed copies of the most recent Federal income tax returns for you, your spouse (if any) and your parents, proof of citizenship, and copies of Social Security benefit statements and W-2 and 1099 forms, among other things.

FAFSA applications are randomly selected by the Federal processor for verification, with ENMU verifying at least 1/3 of all applications. The Office of Financial Aid will contact students that are selected for verification via mail and email once the college is notified by the Department of Education. If you refuse to submit the required documentation, all need-based financial aid will be cancelled prior to registration and no need-based aid will be disbursed.

What Documentation Will I Have To Submit?
Dependent students are required to submit a dependent verification worksheet, a signed copy of both the student and parent 2008 federal income tax return, and both the student and parent W2 forms from 2008. Independent students are required to submit an independent verification worksheet, a signed copy of their 2008 federal income tax return, and W2 forms from 2008. If an independent student was

• married and filing a joint return for the preceding tax year or
• was married after the end of the proceeding tax year but before filing the original FAFSA, the student must submit a tax return for their spouse. If you filed a FAFSA for the current school year and you married after Dec. 31, you must submit a sign income tax return for your spouse.

Have a question? Contact Us!

Office of Financial Aid
ENMU Station 20
1500 S Ave K
Portales, NM 88130
Local phone: 575.562.2194
Toll-free: 800.FOR.ENMU
Fax: 575.562.2198
financial.aid@enmu.edu