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A Step-By-Step Guide to Applying for Federal Financial Aid

By , About.com Guide

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Getting Your Paperwork Organized

You should start the financial aid process by buying a small accordion-style file folder. This will be perfect for keeping all your personal financial documents, completed FAFSA forms, loan agreements, award letters, etc.

It would be a very wise idea to print out every email you send and receive, as well as every online form you complete, just in case your computer crashes. These records will also come in handy if you ever need to have a dispute with an institution.

Make sure you keep this folder in a very safe place. This should not by lying around in a dorm room or on the back seat of a car. With all your private information, tax returns, Social Security numbers, etc., this folder is an identity thief’s dream come true.

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