The Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) is a unique identifier that allows you to log in to Department of Education websites.
You need this ID to complete the FAFSA online, view your financial aid history, accept loans, and select student loan repayment plans.
The sooner you set up your FSA ID, the easier it will be for you to manage everything related to loans and grants. Let’s explore how to set up your FSA ID.
Setting up the FSA ID
To set up your FSA ID, you’ll need a personal email address and Social Security Number (SSN). From there, here are the steps:
- Go to StudentAid.gov and select the blue Create Account button.
- Enter your full name, date of birth and SSN in the form. If you do not have an SSN, you must ensure that you are either completing the form on behalf of your child (who is a United States Citizen) or that you are a citizen without a Social Security Number.
- Choose your communication preference (email or regular mail.) The Department of Education will use this contact information to send you information about your financial aid, repayment plans, and more.
- Choose four challenge questions and answers. These questions will allow you to retrieve your FSA ID if you forget your username or password.
- Review all your information and edit it if necessary. This includes verifying your email address and phone number so you can set up multi-factor authentication.
Set up multi-factor authentication
Select the “Verify” button next to your phone number and email address. You will then receive a 6-digit code to enter the site. Multi-factor authentication ensures that your FSA ID is truly secure and can reduce the chance of identity theft. There is also an option to set up an authentication app as the second authentication factor.
You and your children need ONE FSA ID
Parents completing the FAFSA and all of their children attending college need a unique FSA ID. If you are a parent, you will use your FSA ID to complete the FAFSA. Students will use their FSA ID to review financial aid, obtain loans, and set up student loan repayment options.
Reset your password
You can reset or recover a forgotten username or password by going to StudentAid.gov. When logging in, select the option to search for an account. You will need to provide your username, email address or phone number for recovery. You must also provide the month and day of your birthday. With this information, you will be given the option to reset your password.
The recovery process is pretty simple, but it might be better to save the password in a password manager so you can keep the information safe.
Why you need an FSA ID
The FSA ID is not absolutely necessary to complete the FAFSA, but it makes it much easier to correct errors, track progress, and link the FAFSA to your student aid history and more. The FSA ID can serve as a legal signature when you complete the FAFSA or when you sign the Master Promissory Note, which is the legal document you sign when taking out student loans.
You’ll also use your FSA ID to complete loan entry and exit counseling, view loan and grant information, apply for Direct PLUS loans, and apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
Even if you make a dedicated effort to get rid of your student debt quickly, you’ll likely need your FSA ID for a decade. If you choose to use an income-based repayment plan, you may need your FSA ID for several decades.
Final Takeaways
Whether you’re applying to college for the first time or want to change your student loan repayment plan, an FSA ID will help you find information and take action. Setting up your FSA ID takes just a few minutes and will help you through every step of the student loan borrowing and repayment process.
