Student Loan Forbearance

What Is Student Loan Forbearance?

Student loan forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction in federal student loan payments granted by a loan servicer during periods of financial hardship or other qualifying circumstances. During forbearance, borrowers are not required to make full monthly payments for a limited period of time.

However, interest generally continues to accrue on most loans during forbearance.

Why It Matters

Forbearance can provide short-term relief for borrowers experiencing financial difficulties, unemployment, medical issues, or other unexpected challenges. It helps borrowers avoid default while they stabilize their finances.

Understanding forbearance options allows borrowers to manage repayment responsibly during periods of hardship.

How Student Loan Forbearance Works

Borrowers typically request forbearance through their student loan servicer.

There are two main types:

General forbearance, granted at the servicer’s discretion
Mandatory forbearance, required when borrowers meet specific eligibility criteria

Forbearance is usually granted for up to 12 months at a time, though extensions may be available.

Interest may continue accumulating during the forbearance period.

Example

After losing her job, Samantha contacts her student loan servicer and requests a temporary forbearance. Her payments are paused for several months while she searches for new employment, helping her avoid falling behind on her loan.