Can We Ask Students To Inform the School If Their Unusual Circumstances Or Homelessness Status Has Changed From the Previous Year?

Yes. But keep in mind that such a policy should not delay the student's receipt of Title IV aid. Additional documentation may not be required unless you have conflicting information about the student's circumstances. See the following question and answer ISS-Q2 in Dear Colleague Letter GEN-22-15:

"Can schools ask students if their unusual circumstances or homeless situation has changed each year? 

Yes. However, institutions must not maintain a practice that delays or hinders the awarding and/or disbursement of federal student aid for such students and may not require them to submit additional documentation unless there is conflicting information that the institution needs to resolve. Section 479D(d) of the HEA, as amended by the Act, will remove barriers for this vulnerable student population."

Also see AskRegs Knowledgebase Q&A: Does a Determination Of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Status Have To Be Made Every Year?

Tools: Refer to the following tools to assist with this student population:

• Tip Sheet for Unaccompanied Homeless Youth (UHY)
• Homelessness--Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Determinations: 2023-24 Template
  Homelessness--Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Determinations: 2024-25 Template