School may be out for the summer but scammers never take a break from ripping off consumers. Navigating scholarship and financial aid forms can be tricky, especially for students eager to continue their education. Many reputable businesses charge a fee to assist with the application process, but unscrupulous cons take the money and make promises they can’t keep.

There are no money-back guarantees when it comes to scholarship applications. Refund requirements are impossible to meet and students lose their money and scholarship opportunities in the process. High pressure sales tactics demanding up-front fees can be intimidating. Students can turn to counselors or other reputable sources for help.

Never give bank account or debit card information to “confirm eligibility” for a grant or loan or to “reserve” a scholarship. There is no such thing.

There is no fee to process a FAFSA application. For more information on financial aid options call 1-800-4-FED-AID or visit http://www.studentaid.gov and http://fafsa.ed.gov/options.

Have a safe and scam-free summer!