1. Use the drop-down box to indicate your parent(s) tax return completion status for the tax year noted on the FAFSA
  2. Click the Next button
  3. Use the drop-down box to select what type of tax return your parent(s) filed
  4. Use the drop-down box to select what type of filing status tax return your parent(s) filed
  5. Click the Next button

    Data Retrieval Tool

    Based on your answers in most cases, NOT ALL, you will be offered the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT).  The easiest and most accurate way to have your parent(s) tax information entered into your FAFSA is using this tool offered directly from the IRS.  

    There are some circumstances that require you to enter your information manually, if so, you will need to have your parent(s) taxes available


    Parent DRT Tool Available

    Click the Link To IRS button

    Click the Next button

    1. Select Parent 1 or Parent 2 - iyou will have this option if you listed both parents information on prior questions

      Choose the Parent 1 or 2 that created or is creating the FSA ID that you are using for the DRT tool

      The parent number (1 or 2) used should match how you listed your parent(s) in the previous demographic information.


    2. Enter the parent FSA ID and Password
    3. Click the Next button
    4. Click on Proceed to the IRS Site button
    5. Click the Ok button
    6. Click the Ok button
    7.   Fill in the items marked that are left blank
    8. Click on the Submit button
    9. Click the box next to Transfer My Tax Information into the FAFSA form
    10. Click the Transfer Now button
    11. Make sure your you receive a Successful Transfer Notice
      If you would like more information on the DRT Tool, visit https://finaid.org/fafsa/irsdataretrievaltool/

    Parent DRT tool NOT Available

    1. Click the Next button
    2. Fill in the information requested based on the tax return filed
      • Each question has a "?" symbol on the right hand side which contains an explanation of what is being asked and where to find it on the tax return
    3. Click the Next Button
  6. Enter your parent(s) Adjusted Gross Income (unless Transferred from IRS)
  7. Click the Next button
  8.  Fill in your parent(s) income from working (salaries, wages, tips, etc.)
  9. Click the Next button
  10. Enter your income tax (unless Transferred from IRS)
  11. Click the Next button
  12. List the values requested according to your tax records
  13. Click the Next button
  14. List the values requested according to your tax records
  15. Click the Next button
  16. List the values requested according to your tax records AND personal circumstances
  17. Click the Next button
  18. Enter the requested values about your assets
  19. Click the Next button
  20. You will move to the next section