Students in this bracket rely most heavily on Pell Grants and federal aid. If flagged, aid disbursement could be delayed until identity is verified. No dollar impact is stated in the bill text.
$30,000-$60,000
Students may receive federal subsidized loans or grants. If flagged for fraud review, aid disbursement could be delayed. No dollar impact is stated in the bill text.
$60,000-$100,000
Students in this bracket may qualify for some federal loans. If flagged, aid could be delayed pending identity verification. No dollar impact is stated in the bill text.
Over $100,000
Students typically qualify for fewer need-based federal grants but may use federal loans. Fraud flagging rules would apply equally. No dollar impact is stated in the bill text.
What you can do right now
Your voice carries more weight when it comes from the people a policy affects.
This Senate bill would require the Department of Education to set up a system to detect identity fraud in FAFSA applications. Starting October 1, 2026, each application would be reviewed for signs of fraud. If fraud is suspected, the student and their school must be notified. Schools cannot release federal financial aid until the student's identity is confirmed in person or by live video.
If a student or family member applies for federal college aid, their FAFSA could be flagged for identity review, which may delay when their school releases financial aid funds.