FSA ID: Everything You Need to Know

You don’t need an FSA ID to access and fill out the FAFSA online. However, you do need one to sign the form so it can be processed electronically.

Without an FSA ID, you’ll need to print, sign, and mail the FAFSA signature page to the address provided so the Federal Student Aid Office can fully process your application, a much longer process.

You also need an FSA ID to access your student loan records and make changes to your FAFSA online.

To create an FSA ID, visit StudentAid.gov. Navigate to “Apply for Aid Using the FAFSA Form.” Once you select the option to start the form for the current award year, you can then “Create an FSA ID.”

You’ll need to provide an email address, select a username and password and enter your full name, date of birth and Social Security Number.

If you’re applying for financial aid as a dependent, one of your parents is required to sign the FAFSA. They will need a unique FSA ID to sign electronically. Not sure if you’re considered dependent or independent? Find out with these dependency status questions.

Navigate to any login page on any Federal Student Aid or loan website. Select the “Forgot Username” or "Forgot Password" button.

You can use your email or mobile phone number instead of your username. If you opt to recover your username, the website will prompt you to get a secure code via an authenticator app, text or email. Alternatively, you can answer security questions.

Yes. You should update your details as soon as possible if your email, mailing address or contact phone number changes. Visit StudentAid.gov and log in to your FSA ID account.

Then, find your name in the upper right-hand corner and select "Settings" from the dropdown menu. From there, you can change your account information, including updating your challenge questions, changing your password or deactivating or activating your FSA ID.