Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool?
The IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) transfers your tax information directly into the FAFSA and is available for use by most parents and students who have filed taxes.
Once you transfer verified tax information to the FAFSA, refrain from making changes to the numbers, then sign and submit the correction, Boise State will receive confirmation that the FAFSA income information is considered “verified.”
Using the IRS DRT is simple and saves time when submitting the FAFSA. It also means less paperwork to request and submit to our office. It can also reduce the chance of being selected for verification.
What do I need to do if I’m selected for verification?
- Login to myBoiseState to review your To-Do items.
- Click on the hyperlinked title to view specific instructions for the requested To-Do item.
- If a form is requested, follow the link provided to view, complete, and print the requested form. Many forms are available on our forms page. Please be as detailed as possible.
- Submit the forms or documents requested.
- Avoid making corrections to your FAFSA unless directed. We will make the changes on your behalf after the review.
- Monitor BroncoMail and myBoiseState for additional requests for information or clarification.
Important Links
More Information
How do I submit my verification documents?
First, double check:
- Is your form complete?
- Did you include all documents requested?
- Is it signed with a handwritten signature?
- Is it for the correct aid year?
Once you’ve double-checked everything, submit your documents to the Financial Aid Office. Here’s how we prefer you submit documents:
- In person to the Financial Aid Office in the Administration Building, Room 124 so we can do a quick review in case of omissions.
- Scanned and sent via email attachment to financialaid@boisestate.edu. Unclear photographs of documents are not accepted for quality reasons. If documents have social security numbers on them, we can now accept them through email as long as the beginning of the number is redacted and the last 4 digits are still visible.
- Faxed to (208) 426-1305 — be sure to include your name and student ID number at the top.
- Mailed through USPS is the least desirable method due to delays and risk of lost documents.
What is the deadline for submitting my verification items?
June 1 is the priority deadline if you are receiving work-study or SEOG grant. Meeting the deadline allows you to retain priority status for the following fall and spring semesters.
If you submit verification documents after June 1, you will still be evaluated for Pell Grant and Direct Loan eligibility.
Submit your verification items as soon as possible to prevent delays and potential late fees.
What happens after I submit my documents? How long does verification take?
Once all requested documents are received, our team will review your submission. During high-volume months like April through September, you can expect the initial review to take approximately 4-6 weeks. Be as accurate and complete as possible; incomplete submissions extend the process.
You’ll receive an email once we have reviewed your FAFSA and documents.
- Process complete/no changes needed to FAFSA: you’ll receive confirmation and can expect to allow 1-2 weeks for your aid to be awarded.
- Process complete/changes needed to FAFSA: you’ll receive notification from the Financial Aid Office and from FAFSA.gov that we have made changes to your application. Allow 3-5 days for your FAFSA to be accepted by the federal processor, then 1-2 additional weeks for your aid to be awarded.
- Process incomplete/further information needed: you’ll receive an email that further action is needed. You’ll also see To Do items reflecting the new requests. Respond quickly to prevent further delays.
Tips for Verification Success
- Details matter – the more information you can provide on your forms, the less likely we will request additional information.
- If your parent(s) will be helping with the verification process and you’d like them to be able to speak with us, submit a Release of Information Form to the Registrar’s Office. This will allow our office to discuss details with them about your student account.
- Always monitor your To Do items and BroncoMail for specific instructions for your individual situation.
- If you submitted documents but still see the To Do item on your account 3-5 days after submitting, please contact our office so we can confirm it was received.
- Remember to include your ID number on all documents sent to our office.
- We are unable to waive late fees for students who submit verification documents late or who are waiting for the verification process to be completed. Please remember it can take multiple weeks for our team to review your submitted items.
- Contact us for any questions you may have – we are available to help you with this process.