January 19, 2010 - Edition 536 TG
Shoptalk

TG Report

TG helps spread the word on financial aid with FAFSA Made Easy program
Available in English and Spanish, the FAFSA Made Easy program offers tips and information for completing the FAFSA section by section. Higher education institutions as well as high schools, libraries, community outreach groups, and faith-based organizations are encouraged to register to receive the program.

TG to offer support at key Financial Aid Awareness Month events in Texas
During Financial Aid Awareness Month, TG joins with dozens of other institutions across Texas, promoting financial aid awareness and lending support to those seeking financial aid.

Register for TG's upcoming California regional trainings
TG's regional trainings provide a forum for exploring some of the latest federal, regulatory, and industry changes. This February, TG offers regional trainings in or around three of California's major cities.

Vexed by verification? Plan to attend TG's upcoming industry webinar
With the 2010-11 FAFSA processing cycle underway, schools are likely thinking about how best to approach the next wave of verification. For a refresher on the finer points of household size, number in college, adjusted gross income, taxes paid, and untaxed income and benefits, mark your calendar for TG's webinar on Verification in the Financial Aid Office.

Help your students learn the ABCs of credit card use
The beginning of a semester is a great time to offer your students an instant education on the value of using credit wisely. TG's college and career planning Web site, Adventures In Education, offers students help in several ways, including interactive tools and information on smart credit practices.

Industry Update

ED releases Pell Grant charts
ED published Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) P-10-01 announcing the eagerly awaited Pell Grant payment and disbursement schedules for the 2010-11 award year. Schools must use these charts in awarding all 2010-11 Pell Grant awards for full-time, three-quarter-time, half-time, and less-than-half-time students.

ED issues correction notice on treatment of AmeriCorps benefits
ED released an Electronic Announcement that provides the following guidance on the treatment of AmeriCorps benefits in awarding federal student aid.

Policy Report

Ask the Policy Expert
When will fiscal year (FY) 2008 cohort default rates (CDRs) be available?

Smart Solutions
Find some great ways to design and implement a campus financial literacy program through TG's Positive+Balance Community℠. Hear from peers, share your insights, and download TG's financial literacy presentations for free. Register and find out more.
News Briefs

Each year, the processing of thousands of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) submissions can be delayed because of errors that are easy to prevent. The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) has prepared a list of common FAFSA errors. The association also offers tips on filling out the application in the most efficient way. Students and families may find this resource helpful, especially since completing the FAFSA incorrectly can affect the amount of a student's financial aid. Review NASFAA's FAFSA tips and common errors.