IRS Data Retrieval Tool

What is the IRS Data Retrieval Tool?

The IRS Data Retrieval Tool simplifies filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). If you have filed your federal tax return, you can use this tool to provide the financial details required on the FAFSA® efficiently. This ensures accuracy and authenticity, as the tool verifies your tax information with the IRS. Any data that has been imported will be labeled as “Transferred from the IRS” on the FAFSA®. Eligible students (and their families) can benefit from this convenient option.

Filing a FAFSA® with the IRS Data Retrieval Tool

Suppose a student or a dependent student's parent has already filed their federal tax returns before filling out the FAFSA® and meets the eligibility criteria. In that case, they will be advised to complete their form using the FAFSA®-IRS Data Retrieval Tool. However, suppose they choose not to use the tool or make any changes after importing the data. In that case, they must provide the financial aid office with tax information for verification.

How to use the IRS data retrieval tool

1. Enter your FSA ID and click “Link to IRS.”

2. Your FAFSA® will be saved, and you will be transferred to the IRS website.

3. On the IRS website, enter all required information to authenticate your identity.

4. After verification, your IRS tax information will be displayed. Select “Transfer My Tax Information into the FAFSA®.”

5. All automatically populated tax questions will be marked with ” Transferred from the IRS” when you return to the FAFSA®.

FAFSA Corrections

Students can fill out a FAFSA® before filing their federal taxes. They can provide their "estimated income" information and make necessary adjustments later. To officially correct their FAFSA®, students can use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool after completing their tax returns.

Eligibility

If a student or their parents have filed a federal tax return for the latest tax year, they can use the IRS data retrieval tool. However, specific filing statuses may render them ineligible to use the tool.

1. A married independent student and spouse who filed separate tax returns

2. The parents of a dependent student filed separate tax returns

3. A student or a dependent student’s parent has had a change in marital status after the end of the tax year

4. The student, parent, or spouse has filed an amended tax return

5. The student, parent, or spouse has an unpaid federal tax liability

Verification and the IRS Tax Return Transcript Request

If a student is chosen for verification and they, or their parents, have submitted a federal tax return, they must provide an IRS Tax Return Transcript. This transcript can be obtained from the IRS at no cost.