Permanently Disabled with Student Loans? Help is On the Way.
Permanently disabled citizens in the US receiving Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits are often found to be in default of their student loans. But with the inability to work, how can the permanently disabled expect to be able to pay off these loans? Luckily, the Obama administration has recognized this serious concern, and plans to forgive approximately $7.7 billion in federal student loans to nearly 400,000 permanently disabled citizens.
Help is on the way
The Federal Student Aid (FSA) department confirms that a total and permanent disability is an eligible reason for loan discharge and forgiveness. This applies to the following federal student loans:
- Direct loans
- Federal Family Education Loans (FEEL)
- Perkins Loans
While loan forgiveness for totally and permanently disabled citizens is not a new addition, the Obama administration is taking a step forward by reaching out to permanently disabled citizens registered through programs such as SSD and SSI to let them know of their eligibility. This way, fewer eligible citizens fall through the cracks, and more can make use of the program’s benefits.
Applying for student loans forgiveness
Those who are already receiving benefits from the SSD or SSI can submit their “Social Security Administration notice of award” for benefits, and apply online through the FSA website. You may also submit a physician’s letter stating your disability condition is permanent. The following disability conditions are eligible for discharge of federal student loans:
- The condition is expected to result in death;
- The condition has lasted continuously for 60 months (five years); or,
- The condition is expected to last for at least 60 months.
If you are a permanently disabled citizen and have not yet applied for SSD or SSI benefits, and could benefit from the help of federal student loan forgiveness, give Jenkins Block & Associates a call today.
Need representation for a Social Security Disability claim? Call JBA.
When choosing an attorney to guide you through the process of Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income, it’s important to hire an individual experienced with the program and its requirements. Consulting an individual who has insight on Social Security and the application process will prove to be extremely valuable in the long run, especially when questions arise or uncertainty on how to proceed.
Before trying to work out intricate Social Security qualifications on your own, contact our office to make sure you understand the program and process. Protect yourself, know your rights: call us and Get JBA First!
Jenkins Block & Associates has 40+ years of experience in successful SSD/SSI cases in Maryland & Virginia, in addition to being a member of The National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives. Call us at 1-800-243-2439 or contact us online to begin the process of filing your Social Security benefits!