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Tips for requesting general forbearance on student loans? What to expect when calling loan specialist?

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about requesting a general forbearance on my student loan. Has anyone gone through this process recently? I'm not sure what to expect when I call the loan specialist. Any tips or advice would be really appreciated!

Tom Maxon

I found a way to solve student loan forbearance questions, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HP5OlIMThik

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Sean Murphy

I just went through this last month. Here's what you need to know: • Gather all your loan documents before the call • Be prepared to explain your financial hardship • Ask about the duration of the forbearance • Find out how it will affect your interest • Get everything in writing after the call Good luck! It's not as scary as it seems.

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Zara Khan

This is super helpful, thanks! Did they give you any trouble about approving it?

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Sean Murphy

Not really. They asked a few questions about my situation, but it was pretty straightforward. Just be honest about your circumstances.

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Luca Ferrari

How long did they give you for the forbearance? I've heard it varies.

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Sean Murphy

They gave me 6 months, but I think it can be up to 12 depending on your situation. Definitely ask about your options!

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Nia Davis

ugh, good luck getting through to anyone. I've been on hold for HOURS trying to talk to a loan specialist. 🙄

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Mateo Martinez

Same here! It's like they don't want us to actually get help. So frustrating. 😤

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QuantumQueen

I found a way to get someone on the phone fast. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Check out this video: https://youtu.be/kfgsWnbb8cU

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Nia Davis

$20 just to talk to someone? That's ridiculous. The system is so broken. 🤦‍♂️

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QuantumQueen

I know it sounds crazy, but after wasting hours on hold, it was worth it to me. Saved me a ton of time and frustration.

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Aisha Rahman

Just a heads up, make sure you understand how the forbearance will affect your loan long-term. It can add a lot of interest over time.

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Ethan Wilson

Has anyone tried negotiating the terms of their forbearance? Like, asking for a longer period or different conditions?

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Yuki Sato

I tried, but they were pretty rigid with their policies. Might depend on who you talk to tho.

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Carmen Flores

I actually had some success! I explained my situation in detail and they extended my forbearance period. It's worth a shot!

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Andre Dubois

pro tip: if u can, try to pay the interest during forbearance. it'll save u a ton in the long run trust me 💯

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CyberSamurai

This!!! 👆 Wish someone had told me this before my first forbearance. The interest adds up FAST.

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Zoe Alexopoulos

Anyone else feel like were just rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic with all these forbearances and deferments? The whole system needs an overhaul imho

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Jamal Carter

Preach! 🙌 It's like putting a band-aid on a broken leg at this point.

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Mei Liu

True, but we gotta work with what we have for now. Forbearance can be a lifesaver in tough times.

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Liam O'Donnell

Quick question - does anyone know if getting a forbearance affects your credit score? I'm worried about that.

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Amara Nwosu

It shouldn't affect your credit score as long as you're approved and don't miss any payments before it starts. But double-check with the loan specialist to be sure!

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AstroExplorer

lol remember when we thought wed have these loans paid off by now? 🤡 forbearance is my middle name at this point

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Giovanni Moretti

Has anyone looked into income-driven repayment plans instead of forbearance? Might be worth considering as an alternative.

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Fatima Al-Farsi

I switched to an IDR plan last year and it's been way more manageable for me. Definitely worth looking into!

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Dylan Cooper

IDR was a game-changer for me too. Lower payments and possible forgiveness down the road. 👍

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