[4u.bryan]

Forbearance is somehow similar like deferment. Forbearance allows temporary postponement or reduction of your installments. If you feel it hard to pay the monthly installments and you are not eligible to defer, then you can apply for forbearance.

Under forbearance, the principal amount is not charged with monthly installments but you have to pay the interest as it accrues irrespective to the nature of loan – subsidized or unsubsidized. If the borrower fails to pay the interest it will be capitalized.

Forbearance is not granted automatically. You have to apply for forbearance with some documentaries that prove your eligibility. The details of forbearance can be obtained from the loan holder. A borrower can apply for forbearance when –

• not capable to pay due to some physical problem or some serious personal problem
• helping in health sector or undergoing medical internship
• engaged in some specific profession for which forbearance is applicable
• total payments towards student loan is greater than 20% of your gross monthly income

These are some basic conditions which help a forbearance to be granted. A complete list might be available with the loan holders which vary for different states.

You should be aware of the list of criteria to qualify for forbearance. Check all the documents carefully before putting it forward. Once you are allowed for forbearance, you will get intimidated by the loan holder and you will be informed the amount of monthly payment chargeable during the period of forbearance.

Forbearance is a good option to save your loan to become defaulted and loan holders generally like to cooperate you to overcome the financial hardship.

Please post any more information on forbearance, if you know.

Regards,
Bryan

sounds good. many of us are not aware of the fact at all. it is really a good option to prevent the student loan accounts going to the hands of collection agency. thanks a lot.