In the limited set of cases where an aid applicant is in need of a timely alternative for meeting the 2012-2013 verification requirements because the student and/or parent is unable to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool or obtain IRS Tax Return Transcripts, institutions may use a signed copy of the relevant 2011 IRS Tax Return as acceptable documentation.

The Department is allowing this alternative verification documentation as a result of the large volume of tax returns being processed during this time of year. However, institutions may only use this alternate means until July 15, 2012.

For more information, see Dear Colleague Letter GEN-12-07 dated April 16, 2012.