Department of Education Computer Matching Programs

The Department of Education has published notice of two computer matching programs, as required under the Privacy Act of 1974. These matching programs are conducted in cooperation with other federal agencies, and are required by law under the authority of the Higher Education Act (HEA).

The first notice was published in the August 29, 2003 Federal Register to advise the public of the computer match between the Department and the Social Security Administration (SSA). The purpose of this match is to verify the social security number and citizenship status of students and parents who apply for federal financial aid. Notice of this matching program is provided to all applicants in the Privacy and Security section of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Information obtained from SSA for this program will only be used for the purpose stated.

On September 3, 2003 the Department published notice in the Federal Register of the computer matching program conducted with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Administration for Children and Families (ACF), office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE). This match is conducted for the Department of Education to obtain the current address information of individuals who have defaulted on student loans or grant overpayments. OCSE will compare a Department of Education-provided database of defaulters against their records, and provide and matches to the Department. The Department will then verify that the names and addresses provided are those of defaulters, and will then use this information to attempt to collect debt.

The complete Federal Register notices, along with contact information for any questions, can be accessed at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html.

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