Sign up for a FAFSA PIN before filling out a FAFSA application. Doing so avoids the time delays that would occur after applying for the FAFSA using actual signatures and sending it in via snail mail. Utilizing a FAFSA PIN reduces the amount of time taken for the application process. To apply for a FAFSA PIN, go to http://pin.ed.gov and select "Apply For A PIN" located in the left menu. Have on hand your social security number, email address and an easily remembered, but not obvious, four-digit number to use as your PIN.
After applying for and activating the FAFSA PIN, you will be able to use it to sign the FAFSA application only. Once the information supplied is verified by the Social Security Administration within one to three days, the FAFSA PIN can be used to access other financial student aid sites and to edit the student aid report.
Because a FAFSA PIN is rarely used after filling out the FAFSA form, it's very easy to forget it. Fortunately, it is also simple to get it back. Simply go to http://pin.ed.gov, select "Request a Duplicate PIN" in the left menu, and provide the information requested. Your PIN will be resent to you via the email address you supplied when you applied for the FAFSA PIN.
Changing a FAFSA PIN may be necessary for a couple of reasons. If the original PIN number is too difficult to remember, you may want to change it to a more easily remembered PIN. More importantly, if the FAFSA PIN has been compromised and someone else has access to it that shouldn't, it is essential to change the FAFSA PIN. To change the FAFSA PIN, navigate to http://pin.ed.gov and select "Change My PIN" in the left menu. Provide the information requested and select a new PIN. The PIN will be sent to the email address you supplied.
If the PIN won't need to be used in the foreseeable future, it may be in your best interest to disable it. This will prevent anyone, including you, from using the PIN, which offers additional protection to your records. To disable a FAFSA PIN, go to http://pin.ed.gov, select "Disable My PIN" in the left menu and provide the information requested. Remember, you won't be able to access your records, even with your PIN, after it has been disabled.
If a disabled FAFSA PIN needs to be used again, it is simple to regain access to it. Simply navigate to http://pin.ed.gov, select "Reestablish My PIN" in the left column and provide the information requested. After the PIN has been reestablished, you will be notified and will be able to again access the federal student aid sites you were originally able to when you applied for the FAFSA PIN.