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UPDATED: The CARES Act Student Loan Relief Options: Who Benefits and How?

Presented by Tim Weller

In response to the economic impact of COVID-19, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) announced an extension of this relief through September 30, 2021. The CARES Act encompasses a number of provisions that offer relief for student loan borrowers. If you have a student loan, here’s what you need to know. 

How Does the CARES Act Help Student Loan Borrowers?

Interest rates will be set to 0 percent, and required payments on federal student loans owned by the DOE will automatically be suspended through administrative forbearance, without penalty, through September 30, 2021. If, however, you wish to continue making repayments on your loan, you may do so.

When Is the 0 Percent Interest Rate Effective?

Retroactive to March 13, 2020, and effective through September 30, 2021, interest on applicable federal student loans will be set to 0 percent.

Which Loans Are Included?

Federal student loans owned by the DOE are included. Federal student loans held by a commercial lender or directly by a school are excluded from this relief program, as are private student loans. 

Will the Monthly Payment Change for Those Who Continue to Make Payments? 

If you choose to continue making monthly loan payments during the suspension period, you can increase or decrease the amount of the payment by contacting your loan service provider.

Is Action Needed to Receive the Relief? 

No. The 0 percent interest rate and suspension of required payments will be applied to the applicable federal student loan accounts automatically through your loan service provider. 

Will Automatic Debit Payments Stop?

Yes. Your loan service provider will suspend automatic debit payments for student loans owned by the DOE. You can request a refund from your loan service provider for automatic payments that occurred from March 13, 2020, through September 30, 2021. To resume your automatic debit payments, contact your loan service provider.

How Does the CARES Act Affect Loan Forgiveness Programs?

There is good news for individuals working toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Teacher Loan Forgiveness (TLF). Despite the suspension of required payments, each month through September 2021 will count toward the PSLF program. For teachers in the TLF program who are unable to finish the teaching year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the partial year will count as a full year.

Will Debt Collection Be Suspended? 

Yes. Debt collection for federal student loans owned by the DOE is suspended until September 30, 2021. This suspension applies to garnishments on wages, tax refunds, and social security benefits.

Does the CARES Act Include an Employee Benefit? 

As a tax-free employee benefit, employers can elect to pay up to $5,250 annually as a student loan repayment. This amount will not be considered taxable income to the employee. It is applicable to student loan payments made after the signing of the CARES Act on March 27, 2020. The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, extends this benefit through December 31, 2025. The $5,250 total includes both repayment of student debt and education assistance benefits excluded from the employee’s income for the calendar year.

How Can Borrowers Get Assistance or Additional Information?

If your loans are not included in this relief program and your income has been reduced or you’re facing challenges during this time, reach out to your loan service provider for assistance in evaluating your options.

Additional information about student loans is available on the DOE website and through your loan service provider. We’re happy to help you make the best decision for your situation—contact us today. 

 

This material has been provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute either tax or legal advice. Although we go to great lengths to make sure our information is accurate and useful, we recommend you consult a tax preparer, professional tax advisor, or lawyer.

Weller Group is located at 6206 Slocum Road, Ontario, NY 14519 and can be reached at 315-524-8000. Securities and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services serviced through Weller Group LLC and KAFL, Inc. are separate and unrelated to Commonwealth.

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