Which of the following is not a way to verify a student's independence?

The rationale behind identifying the verification of a student's employment as not a method for verifying independence is rooted in the actual criteria used to establish a student's status as independent for financial aid purposes.

Verifying a student's independence typically involves assessing their financial status, living arrangements, and other factors that demonstrate self-sufficiency. Checking prior year tax returns provides clear evidence of a student’s income and financial responsibilities. Seeking income verification from a parent’s written certification can sometimes clarify the student’s dependency status if applicable, although it leans more toward dependent verification. Scrutinizing previous address information can reveal whether a student has lived independently or with parents, which is an important aspect in determining their independent status.

Contacting a student's employment for verification usually serves to confirm income rather than independence. While employment can be part of an overall picture of a student's financial status, simply verifying where a student works doesn’t necessarily provide evidence of their independence, as employment can still fall under parental support mechanisms or temporary work situations. Thus, while employment verification is relevant to understanding a student’s financial situation, it does not directly address the criteria for independence in the context of financial aid.