FAFSA phone number for Office hours

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a main step in securing financial assistance for college. 

But going through the application process can sometimes lead to questions.

Luckily, the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC) is available to answer your FAFSA-related inquiries by phone. 

FAFSA Phone Number for Office Hours

The primary phone number for FAFSA customer service is 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).

This hotline connects you with the FSAIC, a dedicated team ready to assist you with your FAFSA application.

Here’s a list of FAFSA’s weekly office hours:

  1. Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern Time (ET)
  2. Saturday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET
  3. Sunday: Closed
  4. Federal Holidays: Closed

When Can I Call FAFSA?

Knowing the best time to call the FAFSA Information Center can save you time on hold. Here’s a breakdown of the best calling times:

  1. Weekdays: Generally, weekdays experience higher call volumes. Consider calling earlier in the day (between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM ET) or later in the evening (between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM ET) to avoid peak hours.
  2. Weekends: Weekends normally have lower call volumes. Saturdays between 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM ET might be a good option.
  3. Avoid peak application periods: The closer you get to major deadlines (such as the federal application deadline of June 30th), the higher the call volume. Aim to call before these deadlines if possible.

How Do I Speak to a Human at FAFSA?

The FAFSA Information Center utilizes an automated interactive voice response (IVR) system for initial inquiries.

This system directs you towards solutions based on the keywords you select.

Here’s how to reach a live representative:

  1. Dial 1-800-433-3243.
  2. Listen carefully to the IVR prompts.
  3. Select the option that best describes your inquiry.

If the IVR system doesn’t resolve your issue, you’ll be presented with an option to connect with a live representative.

There might be a hold time depending on call volume.

What Can FAFSA Help Me With?

The FAFSA Information Center representatives can assist you with a wide range of FAFSA-related questions, including:

  1. Completing the FAFSA application: They can guide you through the application process, answer questions about specific sections, and troubleshoot any technical difficulties you might encounter.
  2. Understanding financial aid options: Representatives can explain the different types of federal student aid available and answer questions about eligibility requirements.
  3. Checking the status of your FAFSA: They can provide updates on the processing of your application and help you understand your Student Aid Report (SAR).
  4. Troubleshooting errors: If you encounter any errors while completing the FAFSA, they can assist you in resolving the issue.
  5. General inquiries: Representatives can address any general questions you might have about the FAFSA process or federal student aid programs.