FAFSA Social Security Number Already in Use: What to Do

If you’re trying to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and receive the error message “Social Security Number (SSN) already in use,” don’t panic. This is a common error that can be easily resolved.

Why Does This Error Occur?

There are two main reasons why you might see this error:

1. Duplicate SSN: Your SSN has already been used by another individual on the FAFSA. This could be a mistake by the other person or a result of identity theft.
2. Dependent Application: If you are a dependent student and your parent or guardian has already used your SSN on their FAFSA, you will also receive this error.

Resolving the Error

To resolve the error, you will need to contact the Federal Student Aid (FSA) customer service at 1-800-433-3243. A representative will help you determine the cause of the error and guide you through the process of correcting it.

If Your SSN Has Been Misused

If you believe your SSN has been misused by someone else, you should report it immediately to the Social Security Administration (SSA) by calling 1-800-772-1213. You can also file a report online at the SSA website (www.ssa.gov).

If You Are a Dependent Student

If you are a dependent student and your parent or guardian has already used your SSN on their FAFSA, you will need to contact them and request that they remove your SSN from their application. Once they have done this, you will be able to complete your FAFSA using your own SSN.

Other Possible Causes

In some rare cases, this error can also be caused by:

• Incorrect formatting of your SSN
• System glitch with FAFSA website
• Technical issues from the SSA

Additional Information

• If you are unable to resolve the error with the FSA customer service or if you suspect identity theft, you should contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-ID-THEFT or visit their website (www.identitytheft.gov).
• The FAFSA website offers a helpful troubleshooting tool that can guide you through the process of resolving the SSN error.
• You can also access additional support resources at the Federal Student Aid Knowledge Center (https://studentaid.gov/knowledge-center).

Consequences of Ignoring the Error

It is important to resolve the SSN error promptly. If you ignore it, you may be unable to submit your FAFSA and receive financial aid for college. In addition, if your SSN has been misused, you may be at risk of identity theft.

Conclusion

If you receive the FAFSA error “Social Security Number already in use,” do not be alarmed. It is a common error that can be easily resolved by contacting the FSA customer service or taking other appropriate actions. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your FAFSA is processed correctly and you receive the financial aid you need for college.