IRS Data Retrieval

Eligible families can use the IRS Data Retrieval process when completing the FAFSA. This is a process that allows FAFSA filers to link to the IRS and transfer tax return information to the FAFSA.

The Federal Department of Education and Augustana College strongly recommend using the IRS Data Retrieval process as it saves time and reduces errors. If your taxes are filed when you complete the FAFSA, you will be prompted to use IRS Data Retrieval. If your taxes are not yet completed, you can later upload that information when correcting your FAFSA after your taxes are filed.

Please view the following tutorial on how to use the IRS data retrieval tool.

Many families may not have their tax returns completed in order to meet Augustana’s preferred deadlines. In these instances, families can complete the FAFSA using estimated information, return to the FAFSA after taxes are filed and use IRS Data Retrieval at that time. Selecting and linking to the IRS database will simplify and expedite the processing of your financial aid award notification.

There are instances when the data retrieval process cannot be used, if a family did any of the following:

Completed a paper FAFSA
Tax filing status is married filing separately
Filed amended tax return
Filed foreign tax return
Changed marital status after Dec. 31

In these circumstances, or if a family chooses not to use IRS Data Retrieval, they may be required to submit an official IRS Tax Transcript. A family can refer to the IRS Tax website link provided below to have the transcript sent to Augustana:

How to Request an IRS Tax Return Transcript

Note: Tax returns cannot be accepted as a substitute for the IRS Tax Transcript.