Financial Aid Fraud

Financial Aid Fraud and Identity Verification

Sinclair Community College is committed to protecting students and maintaining the integrity of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The college follows applicable federal regulations and U.S. Department of Education guidance to help prevent fraud, protect student information, and ensure financial aid is awarded only to eligible students.

What Is Financial Aid Fraud?

Financial aid fraud is the intentional submission of false, misleading, or stolen information to obtain financial aid for which an individual is not eligible. This includes:

  • Using another person's identity or personal information.
  • Providing false information on the FAFSA® or financial aid documents.
  • Submitting altered or forged documentation.
  • Misrepresenting income, dependency status, citizenship, or other eligibility information.
  • Enrolling only to obtain financial aid without participating academically.

Identity Verification

The U.S. Department of Education uses fraud detection tools to identify some FAFSA applications for additional review. If your application is selected, Sinclair may request documentation to verify your identity before federal financial aid can be awarded or disbursed.

Protect Yourself

If you believe your personal information has been stolen and used to obtain federal student aid fraudulently, take the following steps:

  • Contact Sinclair's Financial Aid & Scholarships office immediately if you believe your identity has been used to apply for or receive financial aid.
  • Report the identity theft to the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General (OIG).
  • Report the identity theft to IdentityTheft.gov to create a personalized recovery plan.
  • File a police report with your local law enforcement agency.
  • Place a fraud alert or security freeze on your credit reports to help prevent additional fraudulent activity.
  • Monitor your credit reports and financial accounts for suspicious activity.
  • If federal student loans were obtained fraudulently in your name, consider submitting a False Certification Discharge for Identity Theft application through the U.S. Department of Education, if applicable.
  • Contact your federal student loan servicer

 

For information about Sinclair’s Fraud Policy concerning student account and academic records, please see the Sinclair College Fraudulent Identification Policy or contact the welcome center at 937-512-3000.