As of August 12, 2026, federal student loans are not in forbearance. The payment pause that began during the COVID-19 pandemic ended in October 2023, and interest has been accruing since September 2023. This means that if you have federal student loans, you are required to make monthly payments unless you have a separate deferment or forbearance for other reasons.
This article explains the current state of student loans, what forbearance options exist, and what you should do if you’re struggling to pay. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help you avoid default and keep your finances on track.
What Is the Current Status of Student Loan Payments?
Since the end of the payment pause, all federal student loan servicers have resumed billing. Borrowers are expected to pay their full monthly amount unless they have an active deferment or forbearance. Interest is also accruing on all loan types, including subsidized loans, which previously had interest benefits during the pause.
The U.S. Department of Education has implemented the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, but a court injunction has blocked parts of the program. As of now, the SAVE plan is not fully available, and borrowers on that plan may be in a separate forbearance while legal challenges continue.
If you are unsure about your loan status, check with your loan servicer or log in to your account at StudentAid.gov. Do not assume your payments are paused—verify your balance and due date.
When Can You Get a Forbearance?
Forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction of your monthly payment, but interest continues to accrue. It is not automatic; you must request it from your loan servicer. There are two types of forbearance: general and mandatory.
General Forbearance
General forbearance is available for financial hardship, illness, or other situations that your servicer approves. You can request it for up to 12 months at a time, and you can renew it, but the total time is usually limited to three years.
Mandatory Forbearance
Mandatory forbearance is required by law in certain situations, such as serving in a medical or dental internship, being in a national service position, or having a monthly payment that exceeds 20% of your gross income. Your servicer must grant it if you qualify.
| Type | Eligibility | Interest Accrues? | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Forbearance | Financial hardship, illness, or other approved reasons | Yes | Up to 12 months at a time, max 3 years |
| Mandatory Forbearance | Medical/dental internship, national service, high debt-to-income | Yes | Up to 12 months, renewable |
What Are Your Options If You Can’t Pay?
If you cannot afford your current payment, you have several alternatives to forbearance that may be better for your financial future. Forbearance should be a last resort because interest adds to your balance, making your loan more expensive over time.
- Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: These plans cap your payment at a percentage of your discretionary income. You can apply for plans like IBR, PAYE, or ICR, but the SAVE plan is currently blocked.
- Deferment: Unlike forbearance, some deferments (like for school enrollment or unemployment) may not accrue interest on subsidized loans.
- Loan Consolidation: Combining multiple federal loans into one can lower your monthly payment by extending the repayment term, but it may increase total interest paid.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: If you work in public service, you may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after 120 qualifying payments.
Each option has different requirements and consequences, so research carefully before choosing. Use the federal loan simulator at StudentAid.gov to compare payments under different plans.
How to Request a Forbearance
To request forbearance, contact your loan servicer directly. You can do this online, by phone, or by mail. You will need to explain why you need it and provide supporting documentation if required, such as medical bills or proof of income.
Your servicer must respond to your request within a reasonable time. If you are denied, you can appeal or ask for reconsideration. Keep records of all communication, including dates and names of representatives.
Note that forbearance is not a forgiveness—you will still owe the interest that accrues. If you can make partial payments, ask about a reduced payment forbearance instead of a full pause.
What About Private Student Loans?
Private student loans are not covered by federal policies. Each lender sets its own forbearance rules, and many do not offer the same protections. If you have private loans, contact your lender to ask about hardship options, but be aware that forbearance may be limited or unavailable.
Some private lenders offer a 3-6 month forbearance, but interest continues to accrue. Others may require a co-signer’s approval. Always read the terms carefully before agreeing.
Summary and Next Steps
In short, federal student loans are not in forbearance as of August 2026, but you can request one if you qualify. However, forbearance should be a temporary solution because it increases your total debt. Explore income-driven repayment or deferment first, and always communicate with your servicer.
Start by checking your loan status, reviewing your budget, and applying for the most affordable repayment plan you can find. Taking action now can prevent default and protect your credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are student loans in forbearance right now?
No, federal student loans are not in forbearance as of August 12, 2026; the payment pause ended in October 2023, and payments are required again.
Can I still get a forbearance on my student loans?
Yes, you can request a general or mandatory forbearance from your loan servicer if you face financial hardship or qualify under specific circumstances, but interest will continue to accrue.
How long can I stay in forbearance?
General forbearance is usually granted for up to 12 months at a time, with a maximum total of 3 years, while mandatory forbearance can be renewed annually.
Does forbearance affect my credit score?
No, having a forbearance does not directly harm your credit score, but it may be noted on your credit report and can increase your debt due to accrued interest.
What is the difference between deferment and forbearance?
Deferment may not accrue interest on subsidized loans, while forbearance always accrues interest on all loan types, making deferment a better option when available.
