FSA IDs are used to confirm your identity when accessing federal financial aid information, and to sign your FAFSA electronically. You’re required to create an FSA ID to access, sign, and complete the FAFSA. If you’re a dependent student, your parents will also need one to sign the FAFSA. Fortunately, creating an FSA ID is really simple!

Here’s how to create an FSA ID

1. Go to studentaid.gov

2. Click the "Create Account" link under the Log In button

3. Create an Account by clicking the "Get Started" button

Remember, you (the student) will need to create your own FSA ID account, separate from your parent.

4. Fill in your personal information

Provide your name and social security number exactly as they appear on your Social Security Card.

The following sections may not be in the same order as the studentaid.gov website.

Username and email address

Create a username that is unique, and that you can remember. The email address you provide should be different from your parent's email address. 

Address and mobile number

Provide your mailing address, and your mobile number if you would like to register it. Parents and students can not use the same mobile number. Your number can be used to access your FSA ID account if you forget your username or password.

Set up challenge questions

If you ever forget your log in information (and don't have access to your mobile number), you will be asked a question to confirm your identity. During set up, you get to choose the question and the answer to this question. 

Later, if you need to gain access to your account, your challenge question will be shown to you, and the answer you provide must match the answer you submitted when you created your FSA ID account.  Be sure to make note of the question and answers you input here.

Ensure that all info you entered is correct and press submit!

If there's an error with any of your personal info, it will cause issues later on after you submit your FAFSA, so be sure to verify all your info is correct.