CHARLESTON, WV (WVDN) — West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey urges college-bound students and their parents or guardians to protect their personal identifiable information when submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), especially in light of the ongoing issues following the new form that was released for the 2024-25 year.
In addition, the Attorney General urges families to be on guard to avoid scams related to completing the updated FAFSA forms or “guaranteed” student aid or scholarships.
The U.S. Department of Education’s rollout of an updated form that was intended to make the process easier and more streamlined has been fraught with issues since the fall. Multiple glitches have caused students to not be able to submit their forms or for forms to be incomplete or incorrect. May 1 has traditionally been National College Decision Day for high school seniors, but this year, it was overshadowed by FAFSA complications and scholarship and aid award delays.
“Students and parents should protect their personal identifiable information such as Social Security numbers, income information and banking information,” Attorney General Morrisey said.
“With the issues this year, I caution families who may be tempted to seek out a third-party entity who may make promises or guarantees of scholarships or student aid,” the Attorney General added. “Families should be wary of anyone or any website that asks for money to help your student obtain money for college. It could be a scam.”
When completing the FAFSA online, applicants should consult the in-form resources if help is needed. Look for the question mark icons embedded in the form.
Every student, even those who think they may not qualify for federal grants, should apply. Many colleges and states use the FAFSA to award other grants and scholarships.
Students, parents and caregivers should refer to www.StudentAid.gov to apply. If you have questions or need assistance, check out the Help Center tab on the Federal Student Aid website or contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243.
Consumers who believe they may have been the victim of identity theft or of a federal student aid or scholarship scam can contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 800-368-8808 or visit the office online at www.ago.wv.gov.
