Frequently Asked Questions

Accounts & signing in

Do I need an account? To apply for services, yes — it's free to create one. To file a complaint or verify a certificate, you don't need an account.

I forgot my password. On the sign-in screen, choose Forgot password and follow the email instructions. See Signing In.

I'm staff but can't sign in. Staff accounts are created by an administrator. Contact your administrator if you don't have one or can't get in.

Applications

Can I save and finish later? Yes. Applications are saved as a draft automatically. Return any time and continue from where you stopped.

How do I know what's happening with my application? Open it under My Applications / My Submissions to see its status and timeline. See Tracking Your Application.

What's my reference number for? It uniquely identifies your application or complaint. Keep it and quote it if you contact BAHFSA.

Payments

How do I pay? Securely by card, online, when a fee is due. See Paying Fees.

I paid but nothing changed. Wait a few minutes and refresh — confirmations can take a moment. If it's still wrong, contact BAHFSA with your reference number.

Certificates

Where's my certificate? Under My Certificates once your application is approved. You can download and print it.

How does someone check my certificate is real? They scan its QR code or enter the certificate number on the verification page — no account needed. See Verify a Certificate.

Inspections (inspectors)

Can I work without internet? Yes. You can complete a checklist offline; it syncs when you reconnect. See The Checklist.

Still stuck?

See Troubleshooting, or use the Help option in the Portal menu.