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Title 34: Education

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PART 682—FEDERAL FAMILY EDUCATION LOAN (FFEL) PROGRAM

Authority:   20 U.S.C 1070g, 1071 to 1087–2, unless otherwise noted.

Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55664, Oct. 28, 2009.

Source:   57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—Purpose and Scope

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(a) This part governs the following four programs collectively referred to in these regulations as “the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) programs,” in which lenders use their own funds to make loans to enable a student or his or her parents to pay the costs of the student's attendance at postsecondary schools:

(1) The Federal Stafford Loan (Stafford) Program, which encourages making loans to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.

(2) The Federal Supplemental Loans for Students (SLS) Program, as in effect for periods of enrollment that began prior to July 1, 1994, which encouraged making loans to graduate, professional, independent undergraduate, and certain dependent undergraduate students.

(3) The Federal PLUS (PLUS) Program, which encourages making loans to parents of dependent undergraduate students. Before October 17, 1986, the PLUS Program also provided for making loans to graduate, professional, and independent undergraduate students. Before July 1, 1993, the PLUS Program also provided for making loans to parents of dependent graduate students. The PLUS Program also provides for making loans to graduate and professional students on or after July 1, 2006.

(4) The Federal Consolidation Loan Program (Consolidation Loan Program), which encourages making loans to borrowers for the purpose of consolidating loans: under the Federal Insured Student Loan (FISL), Stafford loan, SLS, ALAS (as in effect before October 17, 1986), PLUS, Perkins Loan programs, the Health Professions Student Loan (HPSL) including Loans for Disadvantaged Students (LDS) Program authorized by subpart II of part A of Title VII of the Public Health Services Act, Health Education Assistance Loans (HEAL) authorized by subpart I of Part A of Title VII of the Health Services Act, Nursing Student Loan Program loans authorized by subpart II of part B of title VIII of the Public Health Service Act, and existing loans obtained under the Consolidation Loan Program, and William D. Ford Direct Loan (Direct Loan) program loans, if the application for the Consolidation loan was received on or after November 13, 1997.

(b)(1) Except for the loans guaranteed directly by the Secretary described in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, a guaranty agency guarantees a lender against losses due to default by the borrower on a FFEL loan. If the guaranty agency meets certain Federal requirements, the guaranty agency is reimbursed by the Secretary for all or part of the amount of default claims it pays to lenders.

(2)(i) The Secretary guarantees lenders against losses—

(A) Within the Stafford Loan Program, on loans made under Federal Insured Student Loan (FISL) Program;

(B) Within the PLUS Program, on loans made under the Federal PLUS Program;

(C) Within the SLS Program, on loans made under the Federal SLS Program as in effect for periods of enrollment that began prior to July 1, 1994; and

(D) Within the Consolidation Loan Program, on loans made under the Federal Consolidation Loan Program.

(ii) The loan programs listed in paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section collectively are referred to in these regulations as the “Federal Guaranteed Student Loan (GSL) programs.”

(iii) The Federal GSL programs are authorized to operate in States not served by a guaranty agency program. In addition, the FISL and Federal SLS (as in effect for periods of enrollment that began prior to July 1, 1994) programs are authorized, under limited circumstances, to operate in States in which a guaranty agency program does not serve all eligible students.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1701 to 1087–2)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 33348, June 28, 1994; 59 FR 61215, Nov. 29, 1994; 64 FR 18974, 18975, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58952, Nov. 1, 1999; 66 FR 34762, June 29, 2001; 71 FR 45698, Aug. 9, 2006]

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(a) Eligible banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, pension funds, insurance companies, schools, and State and private nonprofit agencies may make loans.

(b) Institutions of higher education, including most colleges, universities, graduate and professional schools, and many vocational, technical schools may participate as schools, enabling an eligible student or his or her parents to obtain a loan to pay for the student's cost of education.

(c) Students who meet certain requirements, including enrollment at a participating school, may borrow under the Stafford Loan and, for periods of enrollment that began prior to July 1, 1994, the SLS program. Parents of eligible dependent undergraduate students may borrow under the PLUS Program. Borrowers with outstanding Stafford, SLS, FISL, Perkins, HPSL, HEAL, ALAS, PLUS, or Nursing Student Loan Program loans may borrow under the Consolidation Loan Program. The PLUS Program also provides for making loans to graduate and professional students on or after July 1, 2006.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1071 to 1087–2)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 61215, Nov. 29, 1994; 64 FR 18975, Apr. 16, 1999; 66 FR 34762, June 29, 2001; 71 FR 45698, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64397, Nov. 1, 2006]

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(a) Stafford loan application. Generally, to obtain a Stafford loan a student requests a loan by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and contacting the school, lender or guarantor. The school determines and certifies the student's eligibility for the loan. Prior to loan disbursement, the lender obtains a loan guarantee from a guaranty agency or the Secretary and the student completes a promissory note, unless the student has previously completed a Master Promissory Note (MPN) that the lender may use for the new loan.

(b) [Reserved]

(c) PLUS loan application. (1) For a parent to obtain a PLUS loan, the parent completes an application and submits it to the school for certification. After the school certifies the application, the application is submitted to a participating lender. If the lender decides to make the loan, the lender obtains a loan guarantee from a guaranty agency or the Secretary. Prior to loan disbursement, the parent completes a PLUS MPN, unless the parent has previously completed a PLUS MPN that the lender may use for the new loan.

(2) For a graduate or professional student to obtain a PLUS loan, the student applies for a PLUS Loan by completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and contacting the school, lender or guarantor. The school determines and certifies the student's eligibility for the PLUS loan. After the school certifies the application, the application is submitted to a participating lender. If the lender decides to make the loan, the lender obtains a loan guarantee from a guaranty agency or the Secretary. Prior to loan disbursement, the student completes a PLUS MPN, unless the student has previously completed a PLUS MPN that the lender may use for the new loan.

(d) Consolidation loan application. Generally, to obtain a Consolidation loan, a borrower completes an application and submits it to a lender participating in the Consolidation Loan Program. If the lender decides to make the loan, the lender obtains a loan guarantee from a guaranty agency or the Secretary.

(e) Repaying a loan —(1) General. Generally, the borrower is obligated to repay the full amount of the loan, late fees, collection costs chargeable to the borrower, and any interest not payable by the Secretary. The borrower's obligation to repay is cancelled if the borrower dies, becomes totally and permanently disabled, or has that obligation discharged in bankruptcy. A parent borrower's obligation to repay a PLUS loan is cancelled if the student, on whose behalf the parent borrowed, dies. The borrower's or student's obligation to repay all or a portion of his or her loan may be cancelled if the student is unable to complete his or her program of study because the school closed or the borrower's or student's eligibility to borrow was falsely certified by the school. The obligation to repay all or a portion of a loan may be forgiven for Stafford loan borrowers who enter certain areas of the teaching or child care professions.

(2) Stafford loan repayment. In the case of a subsidized Stafford loan, a borrower is not required to make any principal payments on a Stafford loan during the time the borrower is in school. The Secretary pays the interest on the borrower's behalf during the time the borrower is in school. When the borrower ceases to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis, a grace period begins during which no principal payments are required, and the Secretary continues to make interest payments on the borrower's behalf. In the case of an unsubsidized Stafford loan, the borrower is responsible for interest during these periods. At the end of the grace period, the repayment period begins. During the repayment period, for the subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loan, the borrower pays both the principal and the interest accruing on the loan.

(3) SLS loan repayment. Generally, the repayment period for an SLS loan begins immediately on the day of the last disbursement of the loan proceeds by the lender. The first payment of principal and interest on an SLS loan is due from the borrower within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed unless a borrower who is also a Stafford loan borrower, but who has not yet entered repayment on the Stafford loan, requests that commencement of repayment on the SLS loan be deferred until the borrower's grace period on the Stafford loan expires.

(4) PLUS loan repayment. Generally, the repayment period for a PLUS loan begins on the day the loan is fully disbursed by the lender. The first payment of principal and interest on a PLUS loan is due from the borrower within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed.

(5) Consolidation loan repayment. Generally, the repayment period for a Consolidation loan begins on the day the loan is disbursed. The first payment of principal and interest on a Consolidation loan is due from the borrower within 60 days after the borrower's liability on all loans being consolidated has been discharged.

(6) Deferment of repayment. Repayment of principal on a FFEL program loan may be deferred under the circumstances described in §682.210.

(7) Default. If a borrower defaults on a loan, the guarantor reimburses the lender for the amount of its loss. The guarantor then collects the amount owed from the borrower.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1071 to 1087–2)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 25744, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33348, June 28, 1994; 64 FR 18975, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58952, Nov. 1, 1999; 68 FR 75428, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 45698, Aug. 9, 2006]

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(a) Subpart B of this part contains general provisions that are applicable to all participants in the FFEL and Federal GSL programs.

(b) The administration of the FFEL programs by a guaranty agency is subject to subparts C, D, F, and G of this part.

(c) The Federal FFEL and Federal GSL programs are subject to subparts C, E, F, and G of this part.

(d) Certain requirements applicable to schools under all the FFEL and Federal GSL programs are set forth in subpart F of this part.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1071 to 1087–2)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 64 FR 18975, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58952, Nov. 1, 1999]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55988, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a)(1) The definitions of the following terms used in this part are set forth in subpart A of the Student Assistance General Provisions, 34 CFR part 668:

Academic Competitiveness Grant (ACG) Program

Academic year

Campus-based programs

Dependent student

Eligible program

Eligible student

Enrolled

Expected family contribution (EFC)

Federal Consolidation Loan Program

Federal Pell Grant Program

Federal Perkins Loan Program

Federal PLUS Program

Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program

Full-time student

Graduate and professional student

Half-time student

Independent student

Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership (LEAP) Program

National of the United States (Referred to as U.S. Citizen or National in 34 CFR 668.2)

National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grant (National SMART Grant) Program

Payment period

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) Program

Supplemental Loans for Students (SLS) Program

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program

TEACH Grant

Undergraduate student

(2) The following definitions are set forth in the regulations for Institutional Eligibility under the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 34 CFR part 600:

Accredited

Clock hour

Correspondence course

Educational program

Federal Family Education Loan Program (formerly known as the Guaranteed Student Loan (GSL) Program)

Institution of higher education (§600.4)

Nationally recognized accrediting agency

Postsecondary Vocational Institution

Preaccredited

Secretary

State

(3) The definition for cost of attendance is set forth in section 472 of the Act, as amended.

(b) The following definitions also apply to this part:

Act. The Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, 20 U.S.C. 1071 et seq.

Actual interest rate. The annual interest rate a lender charges on a loan, which may be equal to or less than the applicable interest rate on that loan.

Applicable interest rate. The maximum annual interest rate that a lender may charge under the Act on a loan.

Authority. Any private non-profit or public entity that may issue tax-exempt obligations to obtain funds to be used for the making or purchasing of FFEL loans. The term “Authority” also includes any agency, including a State postsecondary institution or any other instrumentality of a State or local governmental unit, regardless of the designation or primary purpose of that agency, that may issue tax-exempt obligations, any party authorized to issue those obligations on behalf of a governmental agency, and any non-profit organization authorized by law to issue tax-exempt obligations.

Borrower. An individual to whom a FFEL Program loan is made.

Co-Maker: One of two married individuals who jointly borrow a Consolidation loan, each of whom are eligible and who are jointly and severally liable for repayment of the loan. The term co-maker also includes one of two parents who are joint borrowers as previously authorized in the PLUS Program.

Default. The failure of a borrower and endorser, if any, or joint borrowers on a PLUS or Consolidation loan, to make an installment payment when due, or to meet other terms of the promissory note, the Act, or regulations as applicable, if the Secretary or guaranty agency finds it reasonable to conclude that the borrower and endorser, if any, no longer intend to honor the obligation to repay, provided that this failure persists for—

(1) 270 days for a loan repayable in monthly installments; or

(2) 330 days for a loan repayable in less frequent installments.

Disbursement. The transfer of loan proceeds by a lender to a holder, in the case of a Consolidation loan, or to a borrower, a school, or an escrow agent by issuance of an individual check, a master check or by electronic funds transfer that may represent loan amounts for borrowers.

Disposable income. That part of an individual's compensation from an employer and other income from any source, including spousal income, that remains after the deduction of any amounts required by law to be withheld, or any child support or alimony payments that are made under a court order or legally enforceable written agreement. Amounts required by law to be withheld include, but are not limited, to Federal, State, and local taxes, Social Security contributions, and wage garnishment payments.

Endorser. An individual who signs a promissory note and agrees to repay the loan in the event that the borrower does not.

Escrow agent. Any guaranty agency or other eligible lender that receives the proceeds of a FFEL program loan as an agent of an eligible lender for the purpose of transmitting those proceeds to the borrower or the borrower's school.

Estimated financial assistance. (1) The estimated amount of assistance for a period of enrollment that a student (or a parent on behalf of a student) will receive from Federal, State, institutional, or other sources, such as, scholarships, grants, the net earnings from need-based employment, or loans, including but not limited to—

(i) Except as provided in paragraph (2)(iii) of this definition, national service education awards or post-service benefits under title I of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (AmeriCorps) and veterans' educational benefits paid under chapters 30 (Montgomery GI Bill—Active Duty), 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program), 32 (Veterans' Educational Assistance Program, and 35 (Dependents' Educational Assistance Program) of title 38 of the United States Code;

(ii) Educational benefits paid under Chapters 31 (National Call to Service), 1606 (Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve), and 1607 (Reserve Educational Assistance Program) of Title 10 of the United States Code;

(iii) Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarships and subsistence allowances awarded under Chapter 2 of Title 10 and Chapter 2 of Title 37 of the United States Code;

(iv) Benefits paid under Pub. L. 96–342, section 903: Educational Assistance Pilot Program;

(v) Any educational benefits paid because of enrollment in a postsecondary education institution, or to cover postsecondary education expenses;

(vi) Fellowships or assistantships, except non-need-based employment portions of such awards;

(vii) Insurance programs for the student's education; and

(viii) The estimated amount of other Federal student financial aid, including but not limited to a Federal Pell Grant, Academic Competitiveness Grant, National SMART Grant, campus-based aid, and the gross amount (including fees) of subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans or subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans, and Federal PLUS or Federal Direct PLUS Loans.

(2) Estimated financial assistance does not include—

(i) Those amounts used to replace the expected family contribution, including the amounts of any TEACH Grant, unsubsidized Federal Stafford or Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans, Federal PLUS or Federal Direct PLUS Loans, and non-federal non-need-based loans, including private, state-sponsored, and institutional loans. However, if the sum of the amounts received that are being used to replace the student's EFC exceed the EFC, the excess amount is treated as estimated financial assistance;

(ii) Federal Perkins loan and Federal Work-Study funds that the student has declined;

(iii) For the purpose of determining eligibility for a subsidized Stafford loan, veterans' educational benefits paid under chapter 30 of title 38 of the United States Code (Montgomery GI Bill—Active Duty) and national service education awards or post-service benefits under title I of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (AmeriCorps);

(iv) Any portion of the estimated financial assistance described in paragraph (1) of this definition that is included in the calculation of the student's expected family contribution (EFC);

(v) Non-need-based employment earnings; and

(vi) Assistance not received under this title, if that assistance is designated to offset all or a portion of a specific amount of the cost of attendance and that component is excluded from the cost of attendance as well. If that assistance is excluded from either estimated financial assistance or cost of attendance, it must be excluded from both.

Federal GSL programs. The Federal Insured Student Loan Program, the Federal Supplemental Loans for Students Program, the Federal PLUS Program, and the Federal Consolidation Loan Program.

Federal Insured Student Loan Program. The loan program authorized by title IV-B of the Act under which the Secretary directly insures lenders against losses.

Foreign school. A school not located in a State.

Grace period. The period that begins on the day after a Stafford loan borrower ceases to be enrolled as at least a half-time student at an institution of higher education and ends on the day before the repayment period begins. See also “Post-deferment grace period.” For an SLS borrower who also has a Federal Stafford loan on which the borrower has not yet entered repayment, the grace period is an equivalent period after the borrower ceases to be enrolled as at least a half-time student at an institution of higher education.

Guaranty agency. A State or private nonprofit organization that has an agreement with the Secretary under which it will administer a loan guarantee program under the Act.

Holder. An eligible lender owning an FFEL Program loan including a Federal or State agency or an organization or corporation acting on behalf of such an agency and acting as a conservator, liquidator, or receiver of an eligible lender.

Legal guardian. An individual appointed by a court to be a “guardian” of a person and specifically required by the court to use his or her financial resources for the support of that person.

Lender. (1) The term “eligible lender” is defined in section 435(d) of the Act, and in paragraphs (2)–(5) of this definition.

(2) With respect to a National or State chartered bank, a mutual savings bank, a savings and loan association, a stock savings bank, or a credit union—

(i) The phrase “subject to examination and supervision” in section 435(d) of the Act means “subject to examination and supervision in its capacity as a lender”;

(ii) The phrase “does not have as its primary consumer credit function the making or holding of loans made to students under this part” in section 435(d) of the Act means that the lender does not, or in the case of a bank holding company, the company's wholly-owned subsidiaries as a group do not at any time, hold FFEL Program loans that total more than one-half of the lender's or subsidiaries' combined consumer credit loan portfolio, including home mortgages held by the lender or its subsidiaries. For purposes of this paragraph, loans held in trust by a trustee lender are not considered part of the trustee lender's consumer credit function.

(3) A bank that is subject to examination and supervision by an agency of the United States, making student loans as a trustee, may be an eligible lender if it makes loans under an express trust, operated as a lender in the FFEL programs prior to January 1, 1975, and met the requirements of this paragraph prior to July 23, 1992.

(4) The corporate parent or other owner of a school that qualifies as an eligible lender under section 435(d) of the Act is not an eligible lender unless the corporate parent or owner itself qualifies as an eligible lender under section 435(d) of the Act.

(5)(i) The term eligible lender does not include any lender that the Secretary determines, after notice and opportunity for a hearing before a designated Department official, has, directly or through an agent or contractor—

(A) Except as provided in paragraph (5)(ii) of this definition, offered, directly or indirectly, points, premiums, payments, or other inducements to any school or other party to secure applications for FFEL loans or to secure FFEL loan volume. This includes but is not limited to—

( 1 ) Payments or offerings of other benefits, including prizes or additional financial aid funds, to a prospective borrower in exchange for applying for or accepting a FFEL loan from the lender;

( 2 ) Payments or other benefits to a school, any school-affiliated organization or to any individual in exchange for FFEL loan applications, application referrals, or a specified volume or dollar amount of loans made, or placement on a school's list of recommended or suggested lenders;

( 3 ) Payments or other benefits provided to a student at a school who acts as the lender's representative to secure FFEL loan applications from individual prospective borrowers;

( 4 ) Payments or other benefits to a loan solicitor or sales representative of a lender who visits schools to solicit individual prospective borrowers to apply for FFEL loans from the lender;

( 5 ) Payment to another lender or any other party of referral fees or processing fees, except those processing fees necessary to comply with Federal or State law;

( 6 ) Solicitation of an employee of a school or school-affiliated organization to serve on a lender's advisory board or committee and/or payment of costs incurred on behalf of an employee of a school or school-affiliated organization to serve on a lender's advisory board or committee;

( 7 ) Payment of conference or training registration, transportation, and lodging costs for an employee of a school or school-affiliated organization;

( 8 ) Payment of entertainment expenses, including expenses for private hospitality suites, tickets to shows or sporting events, meals, alcoholic beverages, and any lodging, rental, transportation, and other gratuities related to lender-sponsored activities for employees of a school or a school-affiliated organization;

( 9 ) Philanthropic activities, including providing scholarships, grants, restricted gifts, or financial contributions in exchange for FFEL loan applications or application referrals, or a specified volume or dollar amount of FFEL loans made, or placement on a school's list of recommended or suggested lenders; and

( 10 ) Staffing services to a school, except for services provided to participating foreign schools at the direction of the Secretary, as a third-party servicer or otherwise on more than a short-term, emergency basis, and which is non-recurring, to assist a school with financial aid-related functions.

(B) Conducted unsolicited mailings to a student or a student's parents of FFEL loan application forms, except to a student who previously has received a FFEL loan from the lender or to a student's parent who previously has received a FFEL loan from the lender;

(C) Offered, directly or indirectly, a FFEL loan to a prospective borrower to induce the purchase of a policy of insurance or other product or service by the borrower or other person; or

(D) Engaged in fraudulent or misleading advertising with respect to its FFEL loan activities.

(ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (5)(i) of this definition, a lender, in carrying out its role in the FFEL program and in attempting to provide better service, may provide—

(A) Assistance to a school that is comparable to the kinds of assistance provided to a school by the Secretary under the Direct Loan program, as identified by the Secretary in a public announcement, such as a notice in theFederal Register;

(B) Support of and participation in a school's or a guaranty agency's student aid and financial literacy-related outreach activities, excluding in-person school-required initial or exit counseling, as long as the name of the entity that developed and paid for any materials is provided to the participants and the lender does not promote its student loan or other products;

(C) Meals, refreshments, and receptions that are reasonable in cost and scheduled in conjunction with training, meeting, or conference events if those meals, refreshments, or receptions are open to all training, meeting, or conference attendees;

(D) Toll-free telephone numbers for use by schools or others to obtain information about FFEL loans and free data transmission service for use by schools to electronically submit applicant loan processing information or student status confirmation data;

(E) A reduced origination fee in accordance with §682.202(c);

(F) A reduced interest rate as provided under the Act;

(G) Payment of Federal default fees in accordance with the Act;

(H) Purchase of a loan made by another lender at a premium;

(I) Other benefits to a borrower under a repayment incentive program that requires, at a minimum, one or more scheduled payments to receive or retain the benefit or under a loan forgiveness program for public service or other targeted purposes approved by the Secretary, provided these benefits are not marketed to secure loan applications or loan guarantees;

(J) Items of nominal value to schools, school-affiliated organizations, and borrowers that are offered as a form of generalized marketing or advertising, or to create good will; and

(K) Other services as identified and approved by the Secretary through a public announcement, such as a notice in theFederal Register.

(iii) For the purposes of paragraph (5) of this definition—

(A) The term “school-affiliated organization” is defined in §682.200.

(B) The term “applications” includes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), FFEL loan master promissory notes, and FFEL consolidation loan application and promissory notes.

(C) The term “other benefits” includes, but is not limited to, preferential rates for or access to the lender's other financial products, computer hardware or non-loan processing or non-financial aid-related computer software at below market rental or purchase cost, and printing and distribution of college catalogs and other materials at reduced or no cost.

(D) The term “emergency basis” for the purpose of staffing services to a school under paragraph (i)(A)(10) of this section means a state- or Federally-declared natural disaster, a Federally-declared national disaster, and other localized disasters and emergencies identified by the Secretary.

(6) The term eligible lender does not include any lender that—

(i) Is debarred or suspended, or any of whose principals or affiliates (as those terms are defined in 34 CFR part 85) is debarred or suspended under Executive Order (E.O.) 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) or the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), 48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4;

(ii) Is an affiliate, as defined in 34 CFR part 85, of any person who is debarred or suspended under E.O. 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) or the FAR, 48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4; or

(iii) Employs a person who is debarred or suspended under E.O. 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189) or the FAR, 48 CFR part 9, subpart 9.4, in a capacity that involves the administration or receipt of FFEL Program funds.

(7) An eligible lender may not make or hold a loan as trustee for a school, or for a school-affiliated organization as defined in this section, unless on or before September 30, 2006—

(i) The eligible lender was serving as trustee for the school or school-affiliated organization under a contract entered into and continuing in effect as of that date; and

(ii) The eligible lender held at least one loan in trust on behalf of the school or school-affiliated organization on that date.

(8) As of January 1, 2007, and for loans first disbursed on or after that date under a trustee arrangement, an eligible lender operating as a trustee under a contract entered into on or before September 30, 2006, and which continues in effect with a school or a school-affiliated organization, must comply with the requirements of §682.601(a)(3), (a)(5), and (a)(7).

Master Promissory Note (MPN). A promissory note under which the borrower may receive loans for a single period of enrollment or multiple periods of enrollment.

National credit bureau. A credit bureau with a service area that encompasses more than a single region of the country.

Nonsubsidized Stafford loan. A Stafford loan made prior to October 1, 1992 that does not qualify for interest benefits under §682.301(b) or special allowance payments under §682.302.

Origination relationship. A special business relationship between a school and a lender in which the lender delegates to the school, or to an entity or individual affiliated with the school, substantial functions or responsibilities normally performed by lenders before making FFEL program loans. In this situation, the school is considered to have “originated” a loan made by the lender.

Origination fee. A fee that the lender is required to pay the Secretary to help defray the Secretary's costs of subsidizing the loan. The lender may pass this fee on to the Stafford loan borrower. The lender must pass this fee on to the SLS or PLUS borrower.

Participating school. A school that has in effect a current agreement with the Secretary under §682.600.

Period of enrollment. The period for which a Stafford, SLS, or PLUS loan is intended. The period of enrollment must coincide with one or more bona fide academic terms established by the school for which institutional charges are generally assessed (e.g., a semester, trimester, or quarter in weeks of instructional time, an academic year, or the length of the student's program of study in weeks of instructional time). The period of enrollment is also referred to as the loan period.

Post-deferment grace period. For a loan made prior to October 1, 1981, a single period of six consecutive months beginning on the day following the last day of an authorized deferment period.

Repayment period. (1) For a Stafford loan, the period beginning on the date following the expiration of the grace period and ending no later than 10 years, or 25 years under an extended repayment schedule, from the date the first payment of principal is due from the borrower, exclusive of any period of deferment or forbearance.

(2) For unsubsidized Stafford loans, the period that begins on the day after the expiration of the applicable grace period that follows after the student ceases to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis and ending no later than 10 years or 25 years under an extended repayment schedule, from that date, exclusive of any period of deferment or forbearance. However, payments of interest are the responsibility of the borrower during the in-school and grace period, but may be capitalized by the lender.

(3) For SLS loans, the period that begins on the date the loan is disbursed, or if the loan is disbursed in more than one installment, on the date the last disbursement is made and ending no later than 10 years from that date, exclusive of any period of deferment or forbearance. The first payment of principal is due within 60 days after the loan is fully disbursed unless a borrower who is also a Stafford loan borrower but who, has not yet entered repayment on the Stafford loan requests that commencement of repayment on the SLS loan be delayed until the borrower's grace period on the Stafford loan expires. Interest on the loan accrues and is due and payable from the date of the first disbursement of the loan. The borrower is responsible for paying interest on the loan during the grace period and periods of deferment, but the interest may be capitalized by the lender.

(4) For Federal PLUS loans, the period that begins on the date the loan is disbursed, or if the loan is disbursed in more than one installment, on the date the last disbursement is made and ending no later than 10 years, or 25 years under an extended repayment schedule, from that date, exclusive of any period of deferment or forbearance. Interest on the loan accrues and is due and payable from the date of the first disbursement of the loan.

(5) For Federal Consolidation loans, the period that begins on the date the loan is disbursed and ends no later than 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, or 30 years from that date depending upon the sum of the amount of the Consolidation loan, and the unpaid balance on other student loans, exclusive of any period of deferment or forbearance.

Satisfactory repayment arrangement. (1) For purposes of regaining eligibility under §682.401(b)(4), the making of six (6) consecutive, on-time, voluntary full monthly payments on a defaulted loan. A borrower may only obtain the benefit of this paragraph with respect to renewed eligibility once.

(2) For purposes of consolidating a defaulted loan under 34 CFR 682.201(c)(1)(iii)(C), the making of three (3) consecutive, on-time voluntary full monthly payments on a defaulted loan.

(3) The required full monthly payment amount may not be more than is reasonable and affordable based on the borrower's total financial circumstances. Voluntary payments are those payments made directly by the borrower, and do not include payments obtained by income tax off-set, garnishment, or income or asset execution. On-time means a payment received by the Secretary or a guaranty agency or its agent within 15 days of the scheduled due date.

School. (1) An “institution of higher education” as that term is defined in 34 CFR 600.4.

(2) For purposes of an in-school deferment, the term includes an institution of higher education, whether or not it participates in any title IV program or has lost its eligibility to participate in the FFEL program because of a high default rate.

School-affiliated organization. A school-affiliated organization is any organization that is directly or indirectly related to a school and includes, but is not limited to, alumni organizations, foundations, athletic organizations, and social, academic, and professional organizations.

School lender. A school, other than a correspondence school, that has entered into a contract of guarantee under this part with the Secretary or, a similar agreement with a guaranty agency.

Stafford Loan Program. The loan program authorized by Title IV-B of the Act which encourages the making of subsidized and unsubsidized loans to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students and is one of the Federal Family Education Loan programs.

State lender. In any State, a single State agency or private nonprofit agency designated by the State that has entered into a contract of guarantee under this part with the Secretary, or a similar agreement with a guaranty agency.

Subsidized Stafford Loan: A Stafford loan that qualifies for interest benefits under §682.301(b) and special allowance under §682.302.

Temporarily totally disabled. The condition of an individual who, though not totally and permanently disabled, is unable to work and earn money or attend school, during a period of at least 60 days needed to recover from injury or illness. With regard to a disabled dependent of a borrower, this term means a spouse or other dependent who, during a period of injury or illness, requires continuous nursing or similar services for a period of at least 90 days.

Third-party servicer. Any State or private, profit or nonprofit organization or any individual that enters into a contract with a lender or guaranty agency to administer, through either manual or automated processing, any aspect of the lender's or guaranty agency's FFEL programs required by any statutory provision of or applicable to Title IV of the HEA, any regulatory provision prescribed under that statutory authority, or any applicable special arrangement, agreement, or limitation entered into under the authority of statutes applicable to Title IV of the HEA that governs the FFEL programs, including, any applicable function described in the definition of third-party servicer in 34 CFR part 668; originating, guaranteeing, monitoring, processing, servicing, or collecting loans; claims submission; or billing for interest benefits and special allowance.

Totally and permanently disabled. The condition of an individual who is unable to work and earn money because of an injury or illness that is expected to continue indefinitely or result in death.

Unsubsidized Stafford loan. A loan made after October 1, 1992, authorized under section 428H of the Act for borrowers who do not qualify for interest benefits under §682.301(b) but do qualify for special allowance under §682.302.

Write-off. Cessation of collection activity on a defaulted FFEL loan due to a determination in accordance with applicable standards that no further collection activity is warranted.

(Authority: 8 U.S.C. 1101; 20 U.S.C. 1070 to 1087–2, 1088–1098, 1141; E.O. 12549 (3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189), E.O. 12689 (3 CFR, 1989 Comp., p. 235))

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992]

Editorial Note:   ForFederal Registercitations affecting §682.200, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and on GPO Access.

§ 682.201   Eligible borrowers.

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55990, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) Student Stafford borrower. Except for a refinanced SLS/PLUS loan made under §682.209 (e) or (f), a student is eligible to receive a Stafford loan, and an independent undergraduate student, a graduate or professional student, or, subject to paragraph (a)(3) of this section, a dependent undergraduate student, is eligible to receive an unsubsidized Stafford loan, if the student who is enrolled or accepted for enrollment on at least a half-time basis at a participating school meets the requirements for an eligible student under 34 CFR part 668, and—

(1) In the case of an undergraduate student who seeks a Stafford loan or unsubsidized Stafford loan for the cost of attendance at a school that participates in the Pell Grant Program, has received a final determination, or, in the case of a student who has filed an application with the school for a Pell Grant, a preliminary determination, from the school of the student's eligibility or ineligibility for a Pell Grant and, if eligible, has applied for the period of enrollment for which the loan is sought;

(2) In the case of any student who seeks an unsubsidized Stafford loan for the cost of attendance at a school that participates in the Stafford Loan Program, the student must—

(i) Receive a determination of need for a subsidized Stafford loan; and

(ii) If the determination of need is in excess of $200, have made a request to a lender for a subsidized Stafford loan;

(3) For purposes of a dependent undergraduate student's eligibility for an additional unsubsidized Stafford loan amount, as described at §682.204(d), is a dependent undergraduate student for whom the financial aid administrator determines and documents in the school's file, after review of the family financial information provided by the student and consideration of the student's debt burden, that the student's parents likely will be precluded by exceptional circumstances (e.g., denial of a PLUS loan to a parent based on adverse credit, the student's parent receives only public assistance or disability benefits, is incarcerated, or his or her whereabouts are unknown) from borrowing under the PLUS Program and the student's family is otherwise unable to provide the student's expected family contribution. A parent's refusal to borrow a PLUS loan does not constitute an exceptional circumstance;

(4)(i) Reaffirms any FFEL loan amount on which there has been a total cessation of collection activity, including all principal, interest, collection costs, legal costs, and late charges that have accrued on that amount up to the date of reaffirmation.

(ii) For purposes of this section, reaffirmation means the acknowledgement of the loan by the borrower in a legally binding manner. The acknowledgement may include, but is not limited to, the borrower—

(A) Signing a new promissory note that includes the same terms and conditions as the original note signed by the borrower or repayment schedule; or

(B) Making a payment on the loan.

(5) The suspension of collection activity has been lifted from any loan on which collection activity had been suspended based on a conditional determination that the borrower was totally and permanently disabled under §682.402(c).

(6) In the case of a borrower whose prior loan under title IV of the Act was discharged after a final determination of total and permanent disability, the student must—

(i) Obtain certification from a physician that the borrower is able to engage in substantial gainful activity;

(ii) Sign a statement acknowledging that the FFEL loan the borrower receives cannot be discharged in the future on the basis of any impairment present when the new loan is made, unless that impairment substantially deteriorates; and

(iii) In the case of a borrower whose previous loan under title IV of the Act was discharged due to a total and permanent disability on or after July 1, 2001 and before July 1, 2002, meets the requirements of paragraphs (a)(6)(i) and (a)(6)(ii) of this section. If the borrower applies for another loan within three years from the date that the borrower became totally and permanently disabled, as certified by the physician, the borrower must reaffirm the previously discharged loan before receiving the new loan.

(7) In the case of a borrower whose prior loan under title IV of the HEA was conditionally discharged based on an initial determination that the borrower was totally and permanently disabled, the borrower must—

(i) Comply with the requirements of paragraphs (a)(6)(i) and (a)(6)(ii) of this section; and

(ii) Sign a statement acknowledging that—

(A) The loan that has been conditionally discharged prior to a final determination of total and permanent disability cannot be discharged in the future on the basis of any impairment present when the borrower applied for a total and permanent disability discharge or when the new loan is made unless that impairment substantially deteriorates; and

(B) Collection activity will resume on any loans in a conditional discharge period, as described in paragraph 682.402(c)(16).

(8) In the case of any student who seeks a loan but does not have a certificate of graduation from a school providing secondary education or the recognized equivalent of such a certificate, the student meets the requirements under 34 CFR part 668.32(e).

(9) Is not serving in a medical internship or residency program, except for an internship in dentistry.

(b) Student PLUS borrower. A graduate or professional student who is enrolled or accepted for enrollment on at least a half-time basis at a participating school is eligible to receive a PLUS Loan on or after July 1, 2006, if the student—

(1) Meets the requirements for an eligible student under 34 CFR 668;

(2) Meets the requirements of paragraphs (a)(4), (a)(5), (a)(6), (a)(7), (a)(8), and (a)(9) of this section, if applicable;

(3) Has received a determination of his or her annual loan maximum eligibility under the Federal Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program or under the Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford/Ford Loan Program and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loan Program, as applicable; and

(4) Does not have an adverse credit history in accordance with paragraphs (c)(2)(i) through (c)(2)(v) of this section, or obtains an endorser who has been determined not to have an adverse credit history, as provided for in paragraph (c)(1)(vii) of this section.

(c) Parent PLUS borrower. (1) A parent borrower, is eligible to receive a PLUS Program loan, other than a loan made under §682.209(e), if the parent—

(i) Is borrowing to pay for the educational costs of a dependent undergraduate student who meets the requirements for an eligible student set forth in 34 CFR part 668;

(ii) Provides his or her and the student's social security number;

(iii) Meets the requirements pertaining to citizenship and residency that apply to the student in 34 CFR 668.33;

(iv) Meets the requirements concerning defaults and overpayments that apply to the student in 34 CFR 668.35 and meets the requirements of judgment liens that apply to the student under 34 CFR 668.32(g)(3);

(v) Except for the completion of a Statement of Selective Service Registration Status, complies with the requirements for submission of a Statement of Educational Purpose that apply to the student in 34 CFR part 668;

(vi) Meets the requirements of paragraphs (a)(4), (a)(5), (a)(6), and (a)(7) of this section, as applicable; and

(vii) In the case of a Federal PLUS loan made on or after July 1, 1993, does not have an adverse credit history or obtains an endorser who has been determined not to have an adverse credit history as provided in paragraph (c)(2)(ii) of this section.

(viii) Has completed repayment of any title IV, HEA program assistance obtained by fraud, if the parent has been convicted of, or has pled nolo contendere or guilty to, a crime involving fraud in obtaining title IV, HEA program assistance.

(2)(i) For purposes of this section, the lender must obtain a credit report on each applicant from at least one national credit bureau. The credit report must be secured within a timeframe that would ensure the most accurate, current representation of the borrower's credit history before the first day of the period of enrollment for which the loan is intended.

(ii) Unless the lender determines that extenuating circumstances existed, the lender must consider each applicant to have an adverse credit history based on the credit report if—

(A) The applicant is considered 90 or more days delinquent on the repayment of a debt; or

(B) The applicant has been the subject of a default determination, bankruptcy discharge, foreclosure, repossession, tax lien, wage garnishment, or write-off of a Title IV debt, during the five years preceding the date of the credit report.

(iii) Nothing in this paragraph precludes the lender from establishing more restrictive credit standards to determine whether the applicant has an adverse credit history.

(iv) The absence of any credit history is not an indication that the applicant has an adverse credit history and is not to be used as a reason to deny a PLUS loan to that applicant.

(v) The lender must retain a record of its basis for determining that extenuating circumstances existed. This record may include, but is not limited to, an updated credit report, a statement from the creditor that the borrower has made satisfactory arrangements to repay the debt, or a satisfactory statement from the borrower explaining any delinquencies with outstanding balances of less than $500.

(3) For purposes of paragraph (c)(1) of this section, a “parent” includes the individuals described in the definition of “parent” in 34 CFR 668.2 and the spouse of a parent who remarried, if that spouse's income and assets would have been taken into account when calculating a dependent student's expected family contribution.

(d) Consolidation program borrower. (1) An individual is eligible to receive a Consolidation loan if the individual—

(i) On the loans being consolidated—

(A) Is, at the time of application for a Consolidation loan—

( 1 ) In a grace period preceding repayment;

( 2 ) In repayment status;

( 3 ) In a default status and has either made satisfactory repayment arrangements as defined in applicable program regulations or has agreed to repay the consolidation loan under the income-sensitive repayment plan described in §682.209(a)(6)(iii);

(B) Not subject to a judgment secured through litigation, unless the judgment has been vacated;

(C) Not subject to an order for wage garnishment under section 488A of the Act, unless the order has been lifted;

(D) Not in default status resulting from a claim filed under §682.412.

(ii) Certifies that no other application for a Consolidation loan is pending; and

(iii) Agrees to notify the holder of any changes in address.

(2) A borrower may not consolidate a loan under this section for which the borrower is wholly or partially ineligible.

(e) A borrower's eligibility to receive a Consolidation loan terminates upon receipt of a Consolidation loan except that—

(1) Eligible loans received prior to the date a Consolidation loan was made and loans received during the 180-day period following the date a Consolidation loan was made, may be added to the Consolidation loan based on the borrower's request received by the lender during the 180-day period after the date the Consolidation loan was made;

(2) A borrower who receives an eligible loan before or after the date a Consolidation loan is made may receive a subsequent Consolidation loan;

(3) A Consolidation loan borrower may consolidate an existing Consolidation loan if the borrower has at least one other eligible loan made before or after the existing Consolidation loan that will be consolidated;

(4) If the consolidation loan has been submitted to the guaranty agency for default aversion, the borrower may obtain a subsequent consolidation loan under the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Program for purposes of obtaining an income contingent repayment plan; and

(5) A FFEL borrower may consolidate his or her loans (including a FFEL Consolidation Loan) into the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Program for the purpose of using the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, and 1091)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 25745, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33349, June 28, 1994; 59 FR 61215, Nov. 29, 1994; 60 FR 61756, 61815, Dec. 1, 1995; 60 FR 65021, Dec. 18, 1995; 62 FR 63433, Nov. 28, 1997; 64 FR 18975, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58952, Nov. 1, 1999; 65 FR 65619, 65691, Nov. 1, 2000; 66 FR 44007, Aug. 21, 2001; 68 FR 75428, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 45699, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64397, Nov. 1, 2006 73 FR 63248, Oct. 23, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55991, Oct. 29. 2009.

The charges that lenders may impose on borrowers, either directly or indirectly, are limited to the following:

(a) Interest. The applicable interest rates for FFEL Program loans are given in paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(4) of this section.

(1) Stafford Loan Program. (i) For loans made prior to July 1, 1994, if, the borrower, on the date the promissory note evidencing the loan is signed, has an outstanding balance of principal or interest on a previous Stafford loan, the interest rate is the applicable interest rate on that previous Stafford loan.

(ii) If the borrower, on the date the promissory note evidencing the loan is signed, has no outstanding balance on any FFEL Program loan, and the first disbursement is made—

(A) Prior to October 1, 1992, for a loan covering a period of instruction beginning on or after July 1, 1988, the interest rate is 8 percent until 48 months elapse after the repayment period begins, and 10 percent thereafter; or

(B) On or after October 1, 1992, and prior to July 1, 1994, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

( 1 ) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10 percent; or

( 2 ) 9 percent.

(iii) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made before October 1, 1992—

(A) If the borrower, on the date the promissory note is signed, has no outstanding balance on a Stafford loan but has an outstanding balance of principal or interest on a PLUS or SLS loan made for a period of enrollment beginning before July 1, 1988, or on a Consolidation loan that repaid a loan made for a period of enrollment beginning before July 1, 1988, the interest rate is 8 percent; or

(B) If the borrower, on the date the promissory note evidencing the loan is signed, has an outstanding balance of principal or interest on a PLUS or SLS loan made for a period of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 1988, or on a Consolidation loan that repaid a loan made for a period of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 1988, the interest rate is 8 percent until 48 months elapse after the repayment period begins, and 10 percent thereafter.

(iv) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after October 1, 1992, but before December 20, 1993, if the borrower, on the date the promissory note evidencing the loan is signed, has no outstanding balance on a Stafford loan but has an outstanding balance of principal or interest on a PLUS, SLS, or Consolidation loan, the interest rate is 8 percent.

(v) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after December 20, 1993 and prior to July 1, 1994, if the borrower, on the date the promissory note is signed, has no outstanding balance on a Stafford loan but has an outstanding balance of principal or interest on a PLUS, SLS, or Consolidation loan, the interest rate is the rate provided in paragraph (a)(1)(ii)(B) of this section.

(vi) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1994 and prior to July 1, 1995, for a period of enrollment that includes or begins on or after July 1, 1994, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10; or

(B) 8.25 percent.

(vii) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1995 and prior to July 1, 1998 the interest rate is a variable rate applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 2.5 percent during the in-school, grace and deferment period and 3.10 percent during repayment; or

(B) 8.25 percent.

(viii) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1998, and prior to July 1, 2006, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period plus 1.7 percent during the in-school, grace and deferment periods and 2.3 percent during repayment; or

(B) 8.25 percent.

(ix) For a Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 2006, the interest rate is 6.8 percent.

(x) For a subsidized Stafford loan made to an undergraduate student for which the first disbursement is made on or after:

(A) July 1, 2006 and before July 1, 2008, the interest rate is 6.8 percent on the unpaid principal balance of the loan.

(B) July 1, 2008 and before July 1, 2009, the interest rate is 6 percent on the unpaid principal balance of the loan.

(C) July 1, 2009 and before July 1, 2010, the interest rate is 5.6 percent on the unpaid principal balance of the loan.

(D) July 1, 2010 and before July 1, 2011, the interest rate is 4.5 percent on the unpaid principal balance of the loan.

(E) July 1, 2011 and before July 2012, the interest rate is 3.4 percent on the unpaid balance of the loan.

(2) PLUS Program. (i) For a combined repayment schedule under §682.209(d), the interest rate is the weighted average of the rates of all loans included under that schedule.

(ii) For a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 1987 but prior to October 1, 1992, and for any loan made under §682.209 (e) or (f), the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 52-week Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.25 percent; or

(B) 12 percent.

(iii) For a loan disbursed on or after October 1, 1992 and prior to July 1, 1994, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 52-week Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10 percent; or

(B) 10 percent.

(iv) For a loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1994 and prior to July 1, 1998, the interest rate is a variable rate applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 52-week Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10 percent; or

(B) 9 percent.

(v) For a loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1998, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10 percent; or

(B) 9 percent.

(vi)(A) Beginning on July 1, 2001, and prior to July 1, 2006, the interest rate on the loans described in paragraphs (a)(2)(ii) through (iv) of this section is a variable rate applicable to each July 1–June 30, as determined on the preceding June 26, and is equal to the weekly average 1-year constant maturity Treasury yield, as published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, for the last calendar week ending on or before such June 26; plus—

( 1 ) 3.25 percent for loans described in paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this section; or

( 2 ) 3.1 percent for loans described in paragraphs (a)(2)(iii) and (iv) of this section.

(B) The interest rates calculated under paragraph (a)(2)(vi)(A) of this section shall not exceed the limits specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(ii)(B), (a)(2)(iii)(B), and (a)(2)(iv)(B) of this section, as applicable.

(vii) For a PLUS loan first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006, the interest rate is 8.5 percent.

(3) SLS Program. (i) For a combined repayment schedule under §682.209(d), the interest rate is the weighted average of the rates of all loans included under that schedule.

(ii) For a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 1987 but prior to October 1, 1992, and for any loan made under §682.209 (e) or (f), the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 52-week Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.25 percent; or

(B) 12 percent.

(iii) For a loan disbursed on or after October 1, 1992, the interest rate is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 52-week Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to the June 1 immediately preceding the July 1–June 30 period, plus 3.10 percent; or

(B) 11 percent.

(iv)(A) Beginning on July 1, 2001, the interest rate on the loans described in paragraphs (a)(3)(ii) and (iii) of this section is a variable rate applicable to each July 1–June 30, as determined on the preceding June 26, and is equal to the weekly average 1-year constant maturity Treasury yield, as published by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, for the last calendar week ending on or before such June 26; plus—

( 1 ) 3.25 percent for loans described in paragraph (a)(3)(ii) of this section; or

( 2 ) 3.1 percent for loans described in paragraph (a)(3)(iii) of this section.

(B) The interest rates calculated under paragraph (a)(3)(iv)(A) of this section shall not exceed the limits specified in paragraphs (a)(3)(ii)(B) and (a)(3)(iii)(B) of this section, as applicable.

(4) Consolidation Program. (i) A Consolidation Program loan made before July 1, 1994 bears interest at the rate that is the greater of—

(A) The weighted average of interest rates on the loans consolidated, rounded to the nearest whole percent; or

(B) 9 percent.

(ii) A Consolidation loan made on or after July 1, 1994, for which the loan application was received by the lender before November 13, 1997, bears interest at the rate that is equal to the weighted average of interest rates on the loans consolidated, rounded upward to the nearest whole percent.

(iii) For a Consolidation loan for which the loan application was received by the lender on or after November 13, 1997 and before October 1, 1998, the interest rate for the portion of the loan that consolidated loans other than HEAL loans is a variable rate, applicable to each July 1–June 30 period, that equals the lesser of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction held prior to June 1 of each year plus 3.10 percent; or

(B) 8.25 percent.

(iv) For a Consolidation loan for which the application was received by the lender on or after October 1, 1998, the interest rate for the portion of the loan that consolidated loans other than HEAL loans is a fixed rate that is the lesser of—

(A) The weighted average of interest rates on the loans consolidated, rounded to the nearest higher one-eighth of one percent; or

(B) 8.25 percent.

(v) For a Consolidation loan for which the application was received by the lender on or after November 13, 1997, the annual interest rate applicable to the portion of each consolidation loan that repaid HEAL loans is a variable rate adjusted annually on July 1 and must be equal to the average of the bond equivalent rates of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the quarter ending June 30, plus 3 percent. There is no maximum rate on this portion of the loan.

(5) Actual interest rates under the Stafford loan, SLS, PLUS, and Consolidation Programs. A lender may charge a borrower an actual rate of interest that is less than the applicable interest rate specified in paragraphs (a)(1)–(4) of this section.

(6) Refund of excess interest paid on Stafford loans.

(i) For a loan with an applicable interest rate of 10 percent made prior to July 23, 1992, and for a loan with an applicable interest rate of 10 percent made from July 23, 1992 through September 30, 1992, to a borrower with no outstanding FFEL Program loans—

(A) If during any calendar quarter, the sum of the average of the bond equivalent rates of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for that quarter, plus 3.25 percent, is less than 10 percent, the lender shall calculate an adjustment and credit the adjustment as specified under paragraph (a)(6)(i)(B) of this section if the borrower's account is not more than 30 days delinquent on December 31. The amount of the adjustment for a calendar quarter is equal to—

( 1 ) 10 percent minus the sum of the average of the bond equivalent rates of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the applicable quarter plus 3.25 percent;

( 2 ) Multiplied by the average daily principal balance of the loan (not including unearned interest added to principal); and

( 3 ) Divided by 4;

(B) No later than 30 calendar days after the end of the calendar year, the holder of the loan shall credit any amounts computed under paragraph (a)(6)(i)(A) of this section to—

( 1 ) The Secretary, for amounts paid during any period in which the borrower is eligible for interest benefits;

( 2 ) The borrower's account to reduce the outstanding principal balance as of the date the holder adjusts the borrower's account, provided that the borrower's account was not more than 30 days delinquent on that December 31; or

( 3 ) The Secretary, for a borrower who on the last day of the calendar year is delinquent for more than 30 days.

(ii) For a fixed interest rate loan made on or after July 23, 1992 to a borrower with an outstanding FFEL Program loan—

(A) If during any calendar quarter, the sum of the average of the bond equivalent rates of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for that quarter, plus 3.10 percent, is less than the applicable interest rate, the lender shall calculate an adjustment and credit the adjustment to reduce the outstanding principal balance of the loan as specified under paragraph (a)(6)(ii)(C) of this section if the borrower's account is not more than 30 days delinquent on December 31. The amount of an adjustment for a calendar quarter is equal to—

( 1 ) The applicable interest rate minus the sum of the average of the bond equivalent rates of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the applicable quarter plus 3.10 percent;

( 2 ) Multiplied by the average daily principal balance of the loan (not including unearned interest added to principal); and

( 3 ) Divided by 4;

(B) For any quarter or portion thereof that the Secretary was obligated to pay interest subsidy on behalf of the borrower, the holder of the loan shall refund to the Secretary, no later than the end of the following quarter, any excess interest calculated in accordance with paragraph (a)(6)(ii)(A) of this section;

(C) For any other quarter, the holder of the loan shall, within 30 days of the end of the calendar year, reduce the borrower's outstanding principal by the amount of excess interest calculated under paragraph (a)(6)(ii)(A) of this section, provided that the borrower's account was not more than 30 days delinquent as of December 31;

(D) For a borrower who on the last day of the calendar year is delinquent for more than 30 days, any excess interest calculated shall be refunded to the Secretary; and

(E) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a)(6)(ii)(B), (C) and (D) of this section, if the loan was disbursed during a quarter, the amount of any adjustment refunded to the Secretary or credited to the borrower for that quarter shall be prorated accordingly.

(7) Conversion to Variable Rate.

(i) A lender or holder shall convert the interest rate on a loan under paragraphs (a)(6)(i) or (ii) of this section to a variable rate.

(ii) The applicable interest rate for each 12-month period beginning on July 1 and ending on June 30 preceding each 12-month period is equal to the sum of—

(A) The bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned at the final auction prior to June 1; and

(B) 3.25 percent in the case of a loan described in paragraph (a)(6)(i) of this section or 3.10 percent in the case of a loan described in paragraph (a)(6)(ii) of this section.

(iii)(A) In connection with the conversion specified in paragraph (a)(6)(ii) of this section for any period prior to the conversion for which a rebate has not been provided under paragraph (a)(6) of this section, a lender or holder shall convert the interest rate to a variable rate.

(B) The interest rate for each period shall be reset quarterly and the applicable interest rate for the quarter or portion shall equal the sum of—

( 1 ) The average of the bond equivalent rates of 91-day Treasury bills auctioned for the preceding 3-month period; and

( 2 ) 3.25 percent in the case of loans as specified under paragraph (a)(6)(i) of this section or 3.10 percent in the case of loans as specified under paragraph (a)(6)(ii) of this section.

(iv)(A) The holder of a loan being converted under paragraph (a)(7)(iii)(A) of this section shall complete such conversion on or before January 1, 1995.

(B) The holder shall, not later than 30 days prior to the conversion, provide the borrower with—

( 1 ) A notice informing the borrower that the loan is being converted to a variable interest rate;

( 2 ) A description of the rate to the borrower;

( 3 ) The current interest rate; and

( 4 ) An explanation that the variable rate will provide a substantially equivalent benefit as the adjustment otherwise provided under paragraph (a)(6) of this section.

(v) The notice may be provided as part of the disclosure requirement as specified under §682.205.

(vi) The interest rate as calculated under this paragraph may not exceed the maximum interest rate applicable to the loan prior to the conversion.

(b) Capitalization. (1) A lender may add accrued interest and unpaid insurance premiums to the borrower's unpaid principal balance in accordance with this section. This increase in the principal balance of a loan is called “capitalization.”

(2) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(4) and (b)(5) of this section, a lender may capitalize interest payable by the borrower that has accrued—

(i) For the period from the date the first disbursement was made to the beginning date of the in-school period;

(ii) For the in-school or grace periods, or for a period needed to align repayment of an SLS with a Stafford loan, if capitalization is expressly authorized by the promissory note (or with the written consent of the borrower);

(iii) For a period of authorized deferment;

(iv) For a period of authorized forbearance; or

(v) For the period from the date the first installment payment was due until it was made.

(3) A lender may capitalize accrued interest under paragraphs (b)(2)(ii) through (iv) of this section no more frequently than quarterly. Capitalization is again permitted when repayment is required to begin or resume. A lender may capitalize accrued interest under paragraph (b)(2) (i) and (v) of this section only on the date repayment of principal is scheduled to begin.

(4)(i) For unsubsidized Stafford loans disbursed on or after October 7, 1998 and prior to July 1, 2000, the lender may capitalize the unpaid interest that accrues on the loan according to the requirements of section 428H(e)(2) of the Act.

(ii) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2000, the lender may capitalize the unpaid interest—

(A) When the loan enters repayment;

(B) At the expiration of a period of authorized deferment;

(C) At the expiration of a period of authorized forbearance; and

(D) When the borrower defaults.

(5) For Consolidation loans, the lender may capitalize interest as provided in paragraphs (b)(2) and (b)(3) of this section, except that the lender may capitalize the unpaid interest for a period of authorized in-school deferment only at the expiration of the deferment.

(6) For any borrower in an in-school or grace period or the period needed to align repayment, deferment, or forbearance status, during which the Secretary does not pay interest benefits and for which the borrower has agreed to make payments of interest, the lender may capitalize past due interest provided that the lender has notified the borrower that the borrower's failure to resolve any delinquency constitutes the borrower's consent to capitalization of delinquent interest and all interest that will accrue through the remainder of that period.

(c) Fees for FFEL Program loans. (1)(i) For Stafford loans first disbursed prior to July 1, 2006, a lender may charge a borrower an origination fee not to exceed 3 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(ii) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006, but before July 1, 2007, a lender may charge a borrower an origination fee not to exceed 2 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(iii) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, but before July 1, 2008, a lender may charge a borrower an origination fee not to exceed 1.5 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(iv) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008, but before July 1, 2009, a lender may charge a borrower an origination fee not to exceed 1 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(v) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2009, but before July 1, 2010, a lender may charge a borrower an origination fee not to exceed .5 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(vi) For Stafford loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2010, a lender may not charge a borrower an origination fee.

(vii) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, a lender must charge all borrowers the same origination fee.

(2)(i) A lender may charge a lower origination fee than the amount specified in paragraph (c)(1) of this section to a borrower whose expected family contribution (EFC), used to determine eligibility for the loan, is equal to or less than the maximum qualifying EFC for a Federal Pell Grant at the time the loan is certified or to a borrower who qualifies for a subsidized Stafford loan. A lender must charge all such borrowers the same origination fee.

(ii) With the approval of the Secretary, a lender may use a standard comparable to that defined in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section.

(3) If a lender charges a lower origination fee on unsubsidized loans under paragraph (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this section, the lender must charge the same fee on subsidized loans.

(4)(i) For purposes of this paragraph (c), a lender is defined as:

(A) All entities under common ownership, including ownership by a common holding company, that make loans to borrowers in a particular state; and

(B) Any beneficial owner of loans that provides funds to an eligible lender trustee to make loans on the beneficial owner's behalf in a particular state.

(ii) If a lender as defined in paragraph (c)(4)(i) charges a lower origination fee to any borrower in a particular state under paragraphs (c)(1) or (c)(2) of this section, the lender must charge all such borrowers who reside in that state or attend school in that state the same origination fee.

(5) Shall charge a borrower an origination fee on a PLUS loan of 3 percent of the principal amount of the loan;

(6) Shall deduct a pro rata portion of the fee (if charged) from each disbursement; and

(7) Shall refund by a credit against the borrower's loan balance the portion of the origination fee previously deducted from the loan that is attributable to any portion of the loan—

(i) That is returned by a school to a lender in order to comply with the Act or with applicable regulations;

(ii) That is repaid or returned within 120 days of disbursement, unless—

(A) The borrower has no FFEL Program loans in repayment status and has requested, in writing, that the repaid or returned funds be used for a different purpose; or

(B) The borrower has a FFEL Program loan in repayment status, in which case the payment is applied in accordance with §682.209(b) unless the borrower has requested, in writing, that the repaid or returned funds be applied as a cancellation of all or part of the loan;

(iii) For which a loan check has not been negotiated within 120 days of disbursement; or

(iv) For which loan proceeds disbursed by electronic funds transfer or master check in accordance with §682.207(b)(1)(ii) (B) and (C) have not been released from the restricted account maintained by the school within 120 days of disbursement.

(d) Insurance premium and Federal default fee. (1) For loans guaranteed prior to July 1, 2006, a lender may charge the borrower the amount of the insurance premium paid by the lender to the guarantor (up to 1 percent of the principal amount of the loan) if that charge is provided for in the promissory note.

(2) For loans guaranteed on or after July 1, 2006, other than an SLS or PLUS loan refinanced under §682.209(e) or (f), a lender may charge the borrower the amount of the Federal default fee paid by the lender to the guarantor (up to 1 percent of the principal amount of the loan) if that charge is provided for in the promissory note.

(3) If the borrower is charged the insurance premium or the Federal default fee, the amount charged must be deducted proportionately from each disbursement of the borrower's loan proceeds, if the loan is disbursed in more than one installment.

(4) The lender shall refund the insurance premium or Federal default fee paid by the borrower in accordance with the circumstances and procedures applicable to the return of origination fees, as described in paragraph (c)(7) of this section.

(e) Administrative charge for a refinanced PLUS or SLS Loan. A lender may charge a borrower up to $100 to cover the administrative costs of making a loan to a borrower under §682.209(e) for the purpose of refinancing a PLUS or SLS loan to secure a variable interest rate.

(f) Late charge. (1) If authorized by the borrower's promissory note, the lender may require the borrower to pay a late charge under the circumstances described in paragraph (f)(2) of this section. This charge may not exceed six cents for each dollar of each late installment.

(2) The lender may require the borrower to pay a late charge if the borrower fails to pay all or a portion of a required installment payment within 15 days after it is due.

(g) Collection charges. (1) If provided for in the borrower's promissory note, and notwithstanding any provisions of State law, the lender may require that the borrower or any endorser pay costs incurred by the lender or its agents in collecting installments not paid when due, including, but not limited to—

(i) Attorney's fees;

(ii) Court costs; and

(iii) Telegrams.

(2) The costs referred to in paragraph (g)(1) of this section may not include routine collection costs associated with preparing letters or notices or with making personal contacts with the borrower (e.g., local and long-distance telephone calls).

(h) Special allowance. Pursuant to §682.412(c), a lender may charge a borrower the amount of special allowance paid by the Secretary on behalf of the borrower.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1079, 1082, 1087–1, 1091a)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 22475, Apr. 29, 1994; 59 FR 61427, Nov. 30, 1994; 61 FR 60486, Nov. 27, 1996; 62 FR 63434, Nov. 28, 1997; 64 FR 18976, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58953, Nov. 1, 1999; 66 FR 34762, June 29, 2001; 71 FR 45700, Aug. 9, 2006; 72 FR 62000, Nov. 1, 2007]

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(a) Delegation of functions. A school, lender, or guaranty agency may contract or otherwise delegate the performance of its functions under the Act and this part to a servicing agency or other party. This contracting or other delegation of functions does not relieve the school, lender, or guaranty agency of its duty to comply with the requirements of the Act and this part.

(b) Trustee responsibility. A lender that holds a loan in its capacity as a trustee assumes responsibility for complying with all statutory and regulatory requirements imposed on any other holders of a loan.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1082)

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55991, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) Stafford Loan Program annual limits. (1) In the case of an undergraduate student who has not successfully completed the first year of a program of undergraduate education, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program may not exceed the following:

(i) $2,625, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $3,500, for a program of study of at least a full academic year in length.

(ii) For a one-year program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, the amount that is the same ratio to $2,625, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $3,500, as the—

(iii) For a program of study that is less than a full academic year in length, the amount that is the same ratio to $2,625, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $3,500 as the lesser of the—

(2) In the case of a student who has successfully completed the first year of an undergraduate program but has not successfully completed the second year of an undergraduate program, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program may not exceed the following:

(i) $3,500, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $4,500, for a program whose length is at least a full academic year in length.

(ii) For a program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, an amount that is the same ratio to $3,500, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $4,500, as the—

(3) In the case of an undergraduate student who has successfully completed the first and second years of a program of study of undergraduate education but has not successfully completed the remainder of the program, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program may not exceed the following:

(i) $5,500 for a program whose length is at least an academic year in length.

(ii) For a program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, an amount that is the same ratio to $5,500 as the—

(4) In the case of a student who has an associate or baccalaureate degree that is required for admission into a program and who is not a graduate or professional student, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study may not exceed the amounts in paragraph (a)(3) of this section.

(5) In the case of a graduate or professional student, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program, in combination with any amount borrowed under the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program, may not exceed $8,500.

(6) In the case of a student enrolled for no longer than one consecutive 12-month period in a course of study necessary for enrollment in a program leading to a degree or certificate, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program may not exceed the following:

(i) $2,625 for coursework necessary for enrollment in an undergraduate degree or certificate program.

(ii) $5,500 for coursework necessary for enrollment in a graduate or professional degree or certificate program for a student who has obtained a baccalaureate degree.

(7) In the case of a student who has obtained a baccalaureate degree and is enrolled or accepted for enrollment in coursework necessary for a professional credential or certification from a State that is required for employment as a teacher in an elementary or secondary school in that State, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study under the Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program may not exceed $5,500.

(8) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(4) of this section, an undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is one academic year or less in length may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.

(9) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(4) of this section—

(i) An undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is more than one academic year in length and who has not successfully completed the first year of that program may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.

(ii) An undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is more than one academic year in length and who has successfully completed the first year of that program, but has not successfully completed the second year of the program, may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(b) Stafford Loan Program aggregate limits. The aggregate unpaid principal amount of all Stafford Loan Program loans in combination with loans received by the student under the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program, but excluding the amount of capitalized interest may not exceed the following:

(1) $23,000 in the case of any student who has not successfully completed a program of study at the undergraduate level.

(2) $65,500, in the case of a graduate or professional student, including loans for undergraduate study.

(c) Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program. (1) In the case of a dependent undergraduate student, the total amount the student may borrow for any period of study under the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loan Program is the same as the amount determined under paragraph (a) of this section, less any amount received under the Stafford Loan Program or the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program except that any TEACH Grants that have been converted to Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not counted against annual or any aggregate loan limits under this section.

(2) In the case of an independent undergraduate student, a graduate or professional student, or certain dependent undergraduate students under the conditions specified in §682.201(a)(3), the total amount the student may borrow for any period of enrollment under the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loan programs may not exceed the amounts determined under paragraph (a) of this section less any amount received under the Federal Stafford Loan Program or the Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loan Program, in combination with the amounts determined under paragraph (d) of this section.

(d) Additional eligibility under the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program. In addition to any amount borrowed under paragraphs (a) and (c) of this section, an independent undergraduate student, graduate or professional student, and certain dependent undergraduate students under the conditions specified in §682.201(a)(3) may borrow additional amounts under the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program. The additional amount that such a student may borrow under the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program in combination with the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loan Program, in addition to the amounts allowed under paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section for any academic year of study—

(1) In the case of a student who has not successfully completed the first year of a program of undergraduate education, may not exceed the following:

(i) $4,000 for a program of study of at least a full academic year.

(ii) For a one-year program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, the amount that is the same ratio to $4,000 as the—

(iii) For a program of study that is less than a full academic year in length, an amount that is the same ratio to $4,000 as the lesser of—

(2) In the case of a student who has completed the first year of a program of undergraduate education but has not successfully completed the second year of a program of undergraduate education may not exceed the following:

(i) $4,000 for a program of study of at least a full academic year in length.

(ii) For a program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, an amount that is the same ratio to $4,000 as the—

(3) In the case of a student who has successfully completed the second year of a program of undergraduate education, but has not completed the remainder of the program, may not exceed the following:

(i) $5,000 for a program of study of at least a full academic year.

(ii) For a program of study with less than a full academic year remaining, an amount that is the same ratio to $5,000 as the—

(4) In the case of a student who has an associate or baccalaureate degree that is required for admission into a program and who is not a graduate or professional student, the total amount the student may borrow for any academic year of study may not exceed the amounts in paragraph (d)(3) of this section.

(5) In the case of a graduate or professional student, may not exceed $10,000, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $12,000.

(6) In the case of a student enrolled for no longer than one consecutive 12-month period in a course of study necessary for enrollment in a program leading to a degree or a certificate may not exceed the following:

(i) $4,000 for coursework necessary for enrollment in an undergraduate degree or certificate program.

(ii) $5,000, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $7,000, for coursework necessary for enrollment in a graduate or professional degree or certificate program for a student who has obtained a baccalaureate degree.

(iii) In the case of a student who has obtained a baccalaureate degree and is enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a program necessary for a professional credential or a certification from a State that is required for employment as a teacher in an elementary or secondary school in that State, $5,000, or, for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 2007, $7,000.

(7) Except as provided in paragraph (d)(4) of this section, an undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is one academic year or less in length may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (d)(1) of this section.

(8) Except as provided in paragraph (d)(4) of this section—

(i) An undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is more than one academic year in length and who has not successfully completed the first year of that program may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (d)(1) of this section.

(ii) An undergraduate student who is enrolled in a program that is more than one academic year in length and who has successfully completed the first year of that program, but has not successfully completed the second year of the program, may not borrow an amount for any academic year of study that exceeds the amounts in paragraph (d)(2) of this section.

(e) Combined Federal Stafford, SLS and Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program aggregate limits. The aggregate unpaid principal amount of Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Stafford/Ford Loans, Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford/Ford Loans and SLS Loans, but excluding the amount of capitalized interest, may not exceed the following:

(1) $46,000 for an undergraduate student.

(2) $138,500 for a graduate or professional student.

(f) SLS Program annual limit. (1) In the case of a loan for which the first disbursement is made prior to July 1, 1993, the total amount of all SLS loans that a student may borrow for any academic year may not exceed $4,000 or, if the student is entering or is enrolled in a program of undergraduate education that is less than one academic year in length and the student's SLS loan application is certified pursuant to §682.603 by the school on or after January 1, 1990—

(i) $2,500 for a student enrolled in a program whose length is at least two-thirds of an academic year but less than a full academic year in length;

(ii) $1,500 for a student enrolled in a program whose length is less than two-thirds of an academic year in length; and

(iii) $0 for a student enrolled in a program whose length is less than one-third of an academic year in length.

(2) In the case of a loan for which a first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1993, the total amount a student may borrow for an academic year under the SLS program—

(i) In the case of a student who has not successfully completed the first and second year of a program of undergraduate education, may not exceed the following—

(A) $4,000 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least a full academic year in length;

(B) $2,500 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least two-thirds but less than a full academic year in length;

(C) $1,500 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least one-third but less than two-thirds of an academic year in length;

(ii) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(3) of this section, in the case of a student who successfully completed the first and second year of an undergraduate program, but has not completed the remainder of the program, may not exceed the following—

(A) $5,000 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least a full academic year;

(B) $3,325 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least two-thirds of an academic year but less than a full academic year in length; or

(C) $1,675 for enrollment in a program whose length is at least one-third of an academic year but less than two-thirds of an academic year; and

(iii) In the case of a graduate or professional student, may not exceed $10,000.

(3) For a period of enrollment beginning after October 1, 1993, but prior to July 1, 1994 for which the first disbursement is made prior to July 1, 1994, in the case of a student who has successfully completed the first and second years of a program but has not successfully completed the remainder of a program of undergraduate education—

(i) $5,000; or

(ii) If the student is enrolled in a program, the remainder of which is less than a full academic year, the maximum annual amount that the student may receive may not exceed the amount that bears the same ratio to the amount in paragraph (f)(3)(i) of this section as the remainder measured in semester, trimester, quarter, or clock hours bears to one academic year.

(g) SLS Program aggregate limit. The total unpaid principal amount of SLS Program loans made to—

(1) An undergraduate student may not exceed—

(i) $20,000, for loans for which the first disbursement is made prior to July 1, 1993; or

(ii) $23,000, for loans for which the first disbursement was made on or after July 1, 1993; and

(2) A graduate student may not exceed—

(i) $20,000, for loans for which the first disbursement is made prior to July 1, 1993; or

(ii) $73,000, for loans for which the first disbursement was made on or after July 1, 1993 including loans for undergraduate study.

(h) PLUS Program annual limit. The total amount of all PLUS Program loans that a parent or student may borrow for any academic year of study may not exceed the student's cost of education minus other estimated financial assistance for that student.

(i) Minimum loan interval. The annual loan limits applicable to a student apply to the length of the school's academic year.

(j) Treatment of Consolidation loans for purposes of determining loan limits. The percentage of the outstanding balance on a Consolidation loan counted against a borrower's aggregate loan limits under the Stafford loan, Unsubsidized Stafford loan, Direct Stafford loan, Direct Unsubsidized loan, SLS, PLUS, Perkins Loan, or HEAL program must equal the percentage of the original amount of the Consolidation loan attributable to loans made to the borrower under that program.

(k) Maximum loan amounts. In no case may a Stafford, PLUS, or SLS loan amount exceed the student's estimated cost of attendance for the period of enrollment for which the loan is intended, less—

(1) The student's estimated financial assistance for that period; and

(2) The borrower's expected family contribution for that period, in the case of a Stafford loan that is eligible for interest benefits.

(l) In determining a Stafford loan amount in accordance with §682.204 (a), (c) and (d), the school must use the definition of academic year in 34 CFR 668.3.

(m) Any TEACH Grants that have been converted to Direct Unsubsidized Loans are not counted against annual or any aggregate loan limits under paragraphs (c), (d), (e), and (f) of this section.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1070g, 1078, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1078–8)

[59 FR 33350, June 28, 1994, as amended at 64 FR 18976, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58954, Nov. 1, 1999; 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 67 FR 67078, Nov. 1, 2002; 71 FR 45700, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64397, Nov. 1, 2006; 73 FR 35495, June 23, 2008; 73 FR 36793, June 30, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55992, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) Initial disclosure statement. (1) A lender must disclose the information described in paragraph (a)(2) of this section to a borrower, in simple and understandable terms, before or at the time of the first disbursement on a Federal Stafford or Federal PLUS loan. The information given to the borrower must prominently and clearly display, in bold type, a clear and concise statement that the borrower is receiving a loan that must be repaid.

(2) The lender shall provide the borrower with—

(i) The lender's name;

(ii) A toll-free telephone number accessible from within the United States that the borrower can use to obtain additional loan information;

(iii) The address to which correspondence with the lender and payments should be sent;

(iv) Notice that the lender may sell or transfer the loan to another party and, if it does, that the address and identity of the party to which correspondence and payments should be sent may change;

(v) The principal amount of the loan;

(vi) The amount of any charges, including the origination fee if applicable, and the insurance premium, to be collected by the lender before or at the time of each disbursement on the loan, and an explanation of whether those charges are to be deducted from the proceeds of the loan or paid separately by the borrower;

(vii) The actual interest rate;

(viii) The annual and aggregate maximum amounts that may be borrowed;

(ix) A statement that information concerning the loan, including the date of disbursement and the amount of the loan, will be reported to a national credit bureau;

(x) An explanation of when repayment of the loan is required and when the borrower is required to pay the interest that accrues on the loan;

(xi) The minimum and maximum number of years in which the loan must be repaid and the minimum amount of required annual payments;

(xii) An explanation of any special options the borrower may have for consolidating or refinancing the loan;

(xiii) A statement that the borrower has the right to prepay all or part of the loan at any time, without penalty;

(xiv) A statement describing the circumstances under which repayment of the loan or interest that accrues on the loan may be deferred;

(xv) A statement of availability of the Department of Defense program for repayment of loans on the basis of military service, as provided for in 10 U.S.C. 2171;

(xvi) The definition of “default” found in §682.200, and the consequences to the borrower of a default, including a statement concerning likely litigation, a statement that the default will be reported to a national credit bureau, and statements that the borrower will be liable for substantial collection costs, that the borrower's Federal and State income tax refund may be withheld to pay the debt, that the borrower's wages may be garnished or offset, and that the borrower will be ineligible for additional Federal student financial aid, as well as for assistance under most Federal benefit programs;

(xvii) An explanation of the possible effects of accepting the loan on the student's eligibility for other forms of student financial assistance;

(xviii) An explanation of any costs the borrower may incur in the making or collection of the loan; and

(xix) In the case of a Stafford or student PLUS loan, a statement that the loan proceeds will be transmitted to the school for delivery to the borrower;

(xx) A statement of the total cumulative balance, including the loan applied for, owed to that lender, and an estimate of, or information that will allow the borrower to estimate, the projected monthly payment amount based on that cumulative outstanding balance.

(3) With the exception of paragraphs (a)(2)(i) through (a)(2)(iii), (a)(2)(v) through (a)(2)(vii), and (a)(2)(xx) of this section, a lender's disclosure requirements are met if it provides the borrower with either—

(i) The borrower's rights and responsibilities statement approved by the Secretary under paragraph (b) of this section; or

(ii) The plain language disclosure approved by the Secretary under paragraph (g) of this section for subsequent loans made under a Master Promissory Note.

(b) Separate statement of borrower rights and responsibilities. In addition to the disclosures required by paragraph (a) of this section, the lender must provide the borrower with a separate written statement, using simple and understandable terms, at or prior to the time of the first disbursement, that summarizes the rights and responsibilities of the borrower with respect to the loan. The statement must also warn the borrower about the consequences described in paragraph (a)(2)(xvi) of this section if the borrower defaults on the loan. The Borrower's Rights and Responsibilities statement approved by the Secretary satisfies this requirement.

(c) Disclosure of repayment information. (1) The lender must disclose the information described in paragraph (c)(2) of this section, in simple and understandable terms, in a statement provided to the borrower at or prior to the beginning of the repayment period. In the case of a Federal Stafford or Federal SLS loan, the disclosures required by this paragraph must be made not less than 30 days nor more than 240 days before the first payment on the loan is due from the borrower. If the borrower enters the repayment period without the lender's knowledge, the lender must provide the required disclosures to the borrower immediately upon discovering that the borrower has entered the repayment period.

(2) The lender shall provide the borrower with—

(i) The lender's name, a toll-free telephone number accessible from within the United States that the borrower can use to obtain additional loan information, and the address to which correspondence with the lender and payments should be sent;

(ii) The scheduled date the repayment period is to begin;

(iii) The estimated balance, including the estimated amount of interest to be capitalized, owed by the borrower as of the date upon which the repayment period is to begin, or the date of the disclosure, whichever is later;

(iv) The actual interest rate on the loan;

(v) An explanation of any fees that may accrue or be charged to the borrower during the repayment period;

(vi) The borrower's repayment schedule, including the due date of the first installment and the number, amount, and frequency of payments;

(vii) Except in the case of a Consolidation loan, an explanation of any special options the borrower may have for consolidating or refinancing the loan and of the availability and terms of such other options;

(viii) The estimated total amount of interest to be paid on the loan, assuming that payments are made in accordance with the repayment schedule; and

(ix) A statement that the borrower has the right to prepay all or part of the loan at any time, without penalty.

(d) Exception to disclosure requirement. In the case of a Federal PLUS loan, the lender is not required to provide the information in paragraph (c)(2)(viii) of this section if the lender, instead of that disclosure, provides the borrower with sample projections of the monthly repayment amounts assuming different levels of borrowing and interest accruals resulting from capitalization of interest while the student is in school. Sample projections must disclose the cost to the borrower of principal and interest, interest only, and capitalized interest. The lender may rely on the PLUS promissory note and associated materials approved by the Secretary for purposes of complying with this section.

(e) Borrower may not be charged for disclosures. The lender must provide the information required by this section at no cost to the borrower.

(f) Method of disclosure. Any disclosure of information by a lender under this section may be through written or electronic means.

(g) Plain language disclosure. The plain language disclosure text, as approved by the Secretary, must be provided to a borrower in conjunction with subsequent loans taken under a previously signed Master Promissory Note. The requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section are satisfied for subsequent loans if the borrower is sent the plain language disclosure text and an initial disclosure containing the information required by paragraphs (a)(2)(i) through (iii), (a)(2)(v), (a)(2)(vi), (a)(2)(vii), and (a)(2)(xx) of this section.

(h) Notice of availability of income-sensitive and income-based repayment options. (1) At the time of offering a borrower a loan and at the time of offering a borrower repayment options, the lender must provide the borrower with a notice that informs the borrower of the availability of income-sensitive and, except for parent PLUS borrowers and Consolidation Loan borrowers whose Consolidation Loan paid off one or more parent PLUS Loans, income-based repayment plans. This information may be provided in a separate notice or as part of the other disclosures required by this section. The notice must inform the borrower—

(i) That the borrower is eligible for income-sensitive repayment and may be eligible for income-based repayment, including through loan consolidation;

(ii) Of the procedures by which the borrower can elect income-sensitive or income-based repayment; and

(iii) Of where and how the borrower may obtain more information concerning income-sensitive and income-based repayment plans.

(2) The promissory note and associated materials approved by the Secretary satisfy the loan origination notice requirements provided for in paragraph (h)(1) of this section.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, 1083(a))

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9119, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 25745, May 17, 1994; 60 FR 30788, June 12, 1995; 64 FR 18976, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58625, Oct. 29, 1999; 64 FR 58965, Nov. 1, 1999; 71 FR 45700. Aug. 9, 2006; 73 FR 63248, Oct. 23, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55993, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. (1) Loan-making duties include determining the borrower's loan amount, approving the borrower for a loan, explaining to the borrower his or her rights and responsibilities under the loan, and completing and having the borrower sign the promissory note (except with respect to subsequent loans made under an MPN).

(2) A lender that delegates substantial loan-making duties to a school on a loan thereby enters into a loan origination relationship with the school in regard to that loan. If that relationship exists, the lender may rely in good faith upon statements of the borrower made in the loan application process, but may not rely upon statements made by the school in that process. A non-school lender that does not have an origination relationship with a school with respect to a loan may rely in good faith upon statements of both the borrower and the school in the loan application process. Except as provided in 34 CFR part 668, subpart E, a school lender may rely in good faith upon statements made by the borrower in the loan application process.

(b) Processing forms. Before disbursing a loan, a lender must determine that all required forms have been accurately completed by the borrower, the student, the school, and the lender. A lender may not ask the borrower to sign any form before the borrower has provided on the form all information requested from the borrower.

(c) Approval of borrower and determination of loan amount. (1) A lender may make a loan only to an eligible borrower. To the extent authorized by paragraph (a)(2) of this section, the lender may rely on the information provided by the school, the borrower, and, if the borrower is a parent, the student on whose behalf the loan is sought, in determining the borrower's eligibility for a loan.

(2) Except in the case of a Consolidation loan, in determining the amount of the loan to be made, in no case may the loan amount exceed the lesser of the amount the borrower requests, the amount certified by the school under §682.603, or the loan limits under §682.204.

(d)(1) The lender must ensure that each loan is supported by an executed legally-enforceable promissory note as proof of the borrower's indebtedness.

(e) Security, endorsement, and co-makers. (1) A FFEL Program loan must be made without security or endorsement, except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section.

(2) A Federal PLUS Program Loan may be made to an eligible borrower with an endorser who is secondarily liable for repayment of the loan.

(3) A Federal Consolidation loan, based on an application received prior to July 1, 2006, may be made to two eligible spouses provided both borrowers agree to be jointly and severally liable for repayment of the loan as co-makers.

(f) Additional requirement for Consolidation loans. (1) Prior to disbursement of a Consolidation loan, the lender shall obtain from the holder of each loan to be consolidated a certification with respect to the loan held by the holder that—

(i) The loan is a legal, valid, and binding obligation of the borrower;

(ii) The loan was made and serviced in compliance with applicable laws and regulations; and

(iii) In the case of a FFEL loan, that the guarantee on the loan is in full force and effect.

(2) The Consolidation loan lender may rely in good faith on the certification provided under paragraph (f)(1) of this section by the holder of a loan to be consolidated.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1079, 1080, 1082, 1083, 1085)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9119, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 25746, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33352, June 28, 1994; 64 FR 18976, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58957, Nov. 1, 1999; 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 68 FR 75428, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 64398, Nov. 1, 2006]

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(a)(1) This section prescribes procedures for lenders to follow in disbursing Stafford and PLUS loans. This section does not prescribe procedures for a refinanced SLS or PLUS Program loan made under §682.209 (e) or (f). With respect to FISL and Federal PLUS loans, references to the “guaranty agency” in this section shall be understood to refer to the “Secretary.”

(2) The requirements of paragraphs (b)(1) (ii) and (v) of this section must be satisfied either by the lender or by an escrow agent with which the lender has an agreement pursuant to §682.408. The lender shall comply with paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of this section whether or not it disburses to an escrow agent.

(b)(1) In disbursing a loan, a lender—

(i)(A) May not disburse loan proceeds prior to the issuance of the guarantee commitment for the loan by the guaranty agency, except with the agency's prior approval; and

(B) Must disburse a Stafford or PLUS loan in accordance with the disbursement schedule provided by the school or any request made by the school modifying that schedule.

(ii) Shall disburse loan proceeds by—

(A) A check that is made payable to the borrower, or that is made co-payable to the borrower and the school for attendance at which the loan is intended, and requires the personal endorsement or other written certification of the borrower in order to be cashed or deposited in an account of the borrower at a financial institution;

(B) If authorized by the guarantor, electronic funds transfer to an account maintained in accordance with §668.163 by the school as trustee for the lender, the guaranty agency, the Secretary, and the borrower, that requires the approval of the borrower. A disbursement made by electronic funds transfer must be accompanied by a list of the names, social security numbers, and loan amounts of the borrowers who are receiving a portion of the disbursement; or

(C) If the school and the lender agree, a master check from the lender to the institution of higher education to an account maintained in accordance with §688.163 by the school as trustee for the lender. A disbursement made by a master check must be accompanied by a list of the names, social security numbers, and loan amounts of the borrowers who are receiving a portion of the disbursement;

(iii) May not disburse loan proceeds earlier than is reasonably necessary to meet the student's cost of attendance for the period for which the loan is made, and, in no case without the Secretary's prior approval, disburse loan proceeds earlier than 30 days prior to the date on which the student is scheduled to enroll;

(iv) Shall require an escrow agent to disburse loan proceeds no later than 10 days after the agent receives the proceeds from the lender.

(v) Shall disburse—

(A) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(1)(v) (C)( 1 ) and (D) of this section, directly to the school;

(B) In the case of a Federal PLUS loan —

( 1 ) By electronic funds transfer or master check from the lender in accordance with the disbursement schedule provided by the school to an account maintained in accordance with §668.163 by the school as trustee for the lender. A disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check must be accompanied by a list of the names, social security numbers, and loan amounts for the parent or student borrowers who are receiving a portion of the disbursement and the names and social security numbers of the students on whose behalf the parents are borrowing parent PLUS loans.

( 2 ) By a check from the lender that is made co-payable to the institution and the parent borrower, for a parent PLUS loan, or student borrower, for a student PLUS loan, directly to the institution of higher education.

(C) In the case of a student enrolled in a study-abroad program approved for credit at the home institution in which the student is enrolled, if the student requests—

( 1 ) A Stafford loan directly to the student only after verification of the student's enrollment with the home institution by the lender or guaranty agency; or

( 2 ) To the home institution if the borrower provides a power-of-attorney to an individual not affiliated with the institution to endorse the check or complete an electronic funds transfer authorization.

(D) In the case of a student enrolled in an eligible foreign school, if the foreign school requests, a Stafford loan directly to the student only after verification of the student's enrollment by the lender or guaranty agency.

(vi) Except as provided in paragraph (f) of this section, may not disburse a second or subsequent disbursement of a Federal Stafford loan to a student who has ceased to be enrolled; and

(vii) May disburse a second or subsequent disbursement of an FFEL loan, at the request of the school, even if the borrower or the school returned the prior disbursement, unless the lender has information that the student is no longer enrolled.

(2)(i) A lender or guaranty agency must verify a borrower's enrollment at the foreign school, or a borrower's enrollment in a study-abroad program, prior to each disbursement of Stafford loan funds directly to a student by—

(A) For a student enrolled at a foreign school—

( 1 ) The guaranty agency accessing the Department's Postsecondary Education Participants System (PEPS) Database (or any successor system) and confirming that the foreign school the student is to attend is certified to participate in the FFEL program.

( 2 ) For a new student, contacting the foreign school the student is to attend in accordance with procedures specified by the Secretary, by telephone, e-mail or facsimile to verify the student's admission to the foreign school for the period for which the loan is intended at the enrollment status for which the loan was certified.

( 3 ) For a continuing student, contacting the foreign school the student is to attend in accordance with procedures specified by the Secretary, by telephone, e-mail or facsimile to verify that the student is still enrolled at the foreign school for the period for which the loan is intended at the enrollment status for which the loan was certified.

(B) For a student enrolled in a study-abroad program, contacting the home institution in which the student is enrolled by telephone, facsimile or e-mail to verify—

( 1 ) For a new student, the student's admission to the study-abroad program for the period for which the loan is intended at the enrollment status for which the loan is certified.

( 2 ) For a continuing student, that the student is still enrolled in the study-abroad program for the period for which the loan is intended at the enrollment status for which the loan is certified.

(ii) The lender or guaranty agency that is verifying enrollment at the institution the student is to attend must maintain the following information in the student's file:

(A) The name and telephone number of the school representative contacted;

(B) The date of the contact;

(C) The enrollment period;

(D) Whether enrollment was verified at the enrollment status for which the loan was certified; and

(E) Any other pertinent information received from the school.

(iii) Guaranty agencies and lenders must coordinate their activities to ensure that the requirements of this paragraph are met prior to making any direct disbursement to a student.

(iv) If a lender disburses a Stafford loan directly to the borrower for attendance at an eligible foreign school, or to a borrower enrolled in a study-abroad program approved for credit at the home institution, as provided in paragraphs (b)(1)(v)(D) and (b)(1)(v)(D)( 1 ) of this section, the lender must, at the time of disbursement, notify the foreign school, for a borrower attending a foreign school, or the home institution in which the student is enrolled, for a borrower enrolled in a study-abroad program, of—

(A) The name and social security number of the student;

(B) The type of loan;

(C) The amount of the disbursement, including the amount of any fees assessed the borrower;

(D) The date of the disbursement; and

(E) The name, address, telephone and fax number or electronic address of the lender, servicer, or guaranty agency to which any inquiries should be addressed.

(3) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(1)(v)(C)( 2 ) of this section, neither a lender nor a school may obtain a borrower's power-of-attorney or other authorization to endorse or otherwise approve the cashing of a loan check or the release of funds disbursed by electronic funds transfer, nor may a borrower provide this power-of-attorney or authorization to anyone else. However, the school may present the loan check to a financial institution for deposit in an account of the borrower pursuant to the borrower's endorsement or written certification under paragraph (b)(1)(ii)(A) of this section.

(c) Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, a lender must disburse any Stafford or PLUS loan in accordance with the disbursement schedule provided by the school as follows:

(1) Disbursement must be in two or more installments.

(2) No installment may exceed one-half of the loan.

(3) Disbursement must be made on a payment period basis in accordance with the disbursement schedule provided by the school or any request made by the school modifying that schedule.

(d) If one or more scheduled disbursements have elapsed before a lender makes a disbursement and the student is still enrolled, the lender may include in the disbursement loan proceeds for previously scheduled, but unmade, disbursements.

(e) A lender must disburse the loan in one installment if the school submits a schedule for disbursement of loan proceeds in one installment as authorized by §682.604(c)(8).

(f) A lender may disburse loan proceeds after the student has ceased to be enrolled on at least a half-time basis only if—

(1) The school certified the borrower's loan eligibility before the date the student became ineligible and the loan funds will be used to pay educational costs that the school determines the student incurred for the period in which the student was enrolled and eligible;

(2) The student completed the first 30 days of his or her program of study if the student was a first-year, first-time borrower as described in §682.604(c)(5); and

(3) In the case of a second or subsequent disbursement, the student graduated or successfully completed the period of enrollment for which the loan was intended.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1079, 1080, 1082, 1085)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992]

Editorial Note:   ForFederal Registercitations affecting §682.207, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and on GPO Access.

§ 682.208   Due diligence in servicing a loan.

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55993, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) The loan servicing process includes reporting to national credit bureaus, responding to borrower inquiries, establishing the terms of repayment, and reporting a borrower's enrollment and loan status information.

(b)(1) An eligible lender of a FFEL loan shall report to at least one national credit bureau—

(i) The total amount of FFEL loans the lender has made to the borrower, within 90 days of each disbursement;

(ii) The outstanding balance of the loans;

(iii) Information concerning the repayment status of the loan, no less frequently than every 90 days or quarterly after a change in that status from current to delinquent;

(iv) The date the loan is fully repaid by, or on behalf of, the borrower, or discharged by reason of the borrower's death, bankruptcy, or total and permanent disability, within 90 days after that date;

(v) Other information required by law to be reported.

(2) An eligible lender that has acquired a FFEL loan shall report to at least one national credit bureau the information required by paragraph (b)(1)(ii)–(v) of this section within 90 days of its acquisition of the loan.

(3) Upon receipt of a valid identity theft report as defined in section 603(q)(4) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681a) or notification from a credit bureau that information furnished by the lender is a result of an alleged identity theft as defined in §682.402(e)(14), an eligible lender shall suspend credit bureau reporting for a period not to exceed 120 days while the lender determines the enforceability of a loan.

(i) If the lender determines that a loan does not qualify for a discharge under §682.402(e)(1)(i)(C), but is nonetheless unenforceable, the lender must—

(A) Notify the credit bureau of its determination; and

(B) Comply with §§682.300(b)(2)(ix) and 682.302(d)(1)(viii).

(ii) [Reserved]

(4) If, within 3 years of the lender's receipt of an identity theft report, the lender receives from the borrower evidence specified in §682.402(e)(3)(v), the lender may submit a claim and receive interest subsidy and special allowance payments that would have accrued on the loan.

(c)(1) A lender shall respond within 30 days after receipt to any inquiry from a borrower or any endorser on a loan.

(2) When a lender learns that a Stafford loan borrower or a student PLUS loan borrower is no longer enrolled at an institution of higher education on at least a half-time basis, the lender shall promptly contact the borrower in order to establish the terms of repayment.

(3)(i) If the borrower disputes the terms of the loan in writing and the lender does not resolve the dispute, the lender's response must provide the borrower with an appropriate contact at the guaranty agency for the resolution of the dispute.

(ii) If the guaranty agency does not resolve the dispute, the agency's response must provide the borrower with information on the availability of the Student Loan Ombudsman's office.

(d) Subject to the rules regarding maximum duration of a repayment period and minimum annual payment described in §682.209(a)(7), (c), and (h), nothing in this part is intended to limit a lender's discretion in establishing, or, with the borrower's consent, revising a borrower's repayment schedule—

(1) To provide for graduated or income-sensitive repayment terms. The Secretary strongly encourages lenders to provide a graduated or income-sensitive repayment schedule to a borrower providing for at least the payment of interest charges, unless the borrower requests otherwise, in order to make the borrower's repayment burden commensurate with his or her projected ability to pay; or

(2) To provide a single repayment schedule, as authorized and if practicable, for all FFEL program loans to the borrower held by the lender.

(e)(1) If the assignment of a Stafford, PLUS, SLS, or Consolidation loan is to result in a change in the identity of the party to whom the borrower must send subsequent payments, the assignor and assignee of the loan shall, no later than 45 days from the date the assignee acquires a legally enforceable right to receive payment from the borrower on the assigned loan, provide, either jointly or separately, a notice to the borrower of—

(i) The assignment;

(ii) The identity of the assignee;

(iii) The name and address of the party to whom subsequent payments or communications must be sent; and

(iv) The telephone numbers of both the assignor and the assignee.

(2) If the assignor and assignee separately provide the notice required by paragraph (e)(1) of this section, each notice must indicate that a corresponding notice will be sent by the other party to the assignment.

(3) For purposes of this paragraph, the term “assigned” is defined in §682.401(b)(17)(ii).

(4) The assignee, or the assignor on behalf of the assignee, shall notify the guaranty agency that guaranteed the loan within 45 days of the date the assignee acquires a legally enforceable right to receive payment from the borrower on the loan of—

(i) The assignment; and

(ii) The name and address of the assignee, and the telephone number of the assignee that can be used to obtain information about the repayment of the loan.

(5) The requirements of this paragraph (e), as to borrower notification, apply if the borrower is in a grace period or has entered the repayment period.

(f)(1) Notwithstanding an error by the school or lender, a lender shall follow the procedures in §682.412 whenever it receives information that can be substantiated that the borrower, or the student on whose behalf a parent has borrowed, has been convicted of, or has pled nolo contendere or guilty to, a crime involving fraud in obtaining title IV, HEA program assistance, provided false or erroneous information or took actions that caused the student or borrower—

(i) To be ineligible for all or a portion of a loan made under this part;

(ii) To receive a Stafford loan subject to payment of Federal interest benefits as provided under §682.301, for which he or she was ineligible; or

(iii) To receive loan proceeds that were not paid to the school or repaid to the lender by or on behalf of a registered student who—

(A) The school notifies the lender under 34 CFR 668.21(a)(2)(ii) has withdrawn or been expelled prior to the first day of classes for the period of enrollment for which the loan was intended; or

(B) Failed to attend school during that period.

(2) For purposes of this section, the term “guaranty agency” in §682.412(e) refers to the Secretary in the case of a Federal GSL loan.

(g) If, during a period when the borrower is not delinquent, a lender receives information indicating it does not know the borrower's address, it may commence the skip-tracing activities specified in §682.411(g).

(h) Notifying the borrower about a servicing change. If an FFEL Program loan has not been assigned, but there is a change in the identity of the party to whom the borrower must send subsequent payments or direct any communications concerning the loan, the holder of the loan shall, no later than 45 days after the date of the change, provide notice to the borrower of the name, telephone number, and address of the party to whom subsequent payments or communications must be sent. The requirements of this paragraph apply if the borrower is in a grace period or has entered the repayment period.

(i) A lender shall report enrollment and loan status information, or any Title IV loan-related data required by the Secretary, to the guaranty agency or to the Secretary, as applicable, by the deadline date established by the Secretary.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1079, 1080, 1082, 1085)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9119, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 22476, Apr. 29, 1994; 64 FR 18976, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58626, Oct. 29, 1999; 64 FR 58965, Nov. 1, 1999; 71 FR 45701, Aug. 9, 2006; 72 FR 62000, 62031, Nov. 1, 2007]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55994, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) Conversion of a loan to repayment status. (1) For a Consolidation loan, the repayment period begins on the date the loan is disbursed. The first payment is due within 60 days after the date the loan is disbursed.

(2)(i) For a PLUS loan, the repayment period begins on the date of the last disbursement made on the loan. Interest accrues and is due and payable from the date of the first disbursement of the loan. The first payment is due within 60 days after the date the loan is fully disbursed.

(ii) For an SLS loan, the repayment period begins on the date the loan is disbursed, or, if the loan is disbursed in multiple installments, on the date of the last disbursement of the loan. Interest accrues and is due and payable from the date of the first disbursement of the loan. Except as provided in paragraph (a)(2)(iii), (a)(2)(iv), and (a)(2)(v) of this section the first payment is due within 60 days after the date the loan is fully disbursed.

(iii) For an SLS borrower who has not yet entered repayment on a Stafford loan, the borrower may postpone payment, consistent with the grace period on the borrower's Stafford loan.

(iv) If the lender first learns after the fact that an SLS borrower has entered the repayment period, the repayment begins no later than 75 days after the date the lender learns that the borrower has entered the repayment period.

(v) The lender may establish a first payment due date that is no more than an additional 30 days beyond the period specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(ii)—(a)(2)(iv) of this section in order for the lender to comply with the required deadline contained in §682.205(c)(1).

(3)(i) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(4) of this section, for a Stafford loan the repayment period begins—

(A) For a borrower with a loan for which the applicable interest rate is 7 percent per year, not less than 9 nor more than 12 months following the date on which the borrower is no longer enrolled on at least a half-time basis at an eligible school. The length of this grace period is determined by the lender for loans made under the FISL Program, and by the guaranty agency for loans guaranteed by the agency;

(B) For a borrower with a loan for which the initial applicable interest rate is 8 or 9 percent per year, the day after 6 months following the date on which the borrower is no longer enrolled on at least a half-time basis at an institution of higher education; and

(C) For a borrower with a loan with a variable interest rate, the day after 6 months following the date on which the borrower is no longer enrolled on at least a half-time basis at an institution of higher education.

(ii) The first payment on a Stafford loan is due on a date established by the lender that is no more than—

(A) 60 days following the first day that the repayment period begins;

(B) 60 days from the expiration of a deferment or forbearance period;

(C) 60 days following the end of the post deferment grace period;

(D) If the lender first learns after the fact that the borrower has entered the repayment period, no later than 75 days after the date the lender learns that the borrower has entered the repayment period; or

(E) An additional 30 days beyond the periods specified in paragraphs (a)(3)(ii)(A)–(a)(3)(ii)(D) of this section in order for the lender to comply with the required deadlines contained in §682.205(c)(1).

(iii) When determining the date that the student was no longer enrolled on at least a half-time basis, the lender must use a new date it receives from a school, unless the lender has already disclosed repayment terms to the borrower and the new date is within the same month and year as the most recent date reported to the lender.

(4) For a borrower of a Stafford loan who is a correspondence student, the grace period specified in paragraph (a)(3)(i) of this section begins on the earliest of—

(i) The day after the borrower completes the program;

(ii) The day after withdrawal as determined pursuant to 34 CFR 668.22; or

(iii) 60 days following the last day for completing the program as established by the school.

(5) For purposes of establishing the beginning of the repayment period for Stafford and SLS loans, the grace periods referenced in paragraphs (a)(2)(iii) and (a)(3)(i) of this section exclude any period during which a borrower who is a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces named in section 10101 of title 10, United States Code is called or ordered to active duty for a period of more than 30 days. Any single excluded period may not exceed three years and includes the time necessary for the borrower to resume enrollment at the next available regular enrollment period. Any Stafford or SLS borrower who is in a grace period when called or ordered to active duty as specified in this paragraph is entitled to a full grace period upon completion of the excluded period.

(6)(i) The repayment schedule may provide for substantially equal installment payments or for installment payments that increase or decrease in amount during the repayment period. If the loan has a variable interest rate that changes annually, the lender may establish a repayment schedule that—

(A) Provides for adjustments of the amount of the installment payment to reflect annual changes in the variable interest rate; or

(B) Contains no provision for an adjustment of the amount of the installment payment to reflect annual changes in the variable interest rate, but requires the lender to grant a forbearance to the borrower (or endorser, if applicable) for a period of up to 3 years of payments in accordance with §682.211(i)(5) in cases where the effect of a variable interest rate on a standard or graduated repayment schedule would result in a loan not being repaid within the maximum repayment term.

(ii) If a graduated or income-sensitive repayment schedule is established, it may not provide for any single installment that is more than three times greater than any other installment. An agreement as specified in paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section is not required if the schedule provides for less than the minimum annual payment amount specified in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section.

(iii) Not more than six months prior to the date that the borrower's first payment is due, the lender must offer the borrower a choice of a standard, income-sensitive, income-based, graduated, or, if applicable, an extended repayment schedule.

(iv) Except in the case of an income-based repayment schedule, the repayment schedule must require that each payment equal at least the interest that accrues during the interval between scheduled payments.

(v) The lender shall require the borrower to repay the loan under a standard repayment schedule described in paragraph (a)(6)(vi) of this section if the borrower—

(A) Does not select an income-sensitive, income-based, graduated, or, if applicable, an extended repayment schedule within 45 days after being notified by the lender to choose a repayment schedule;

(B) Chooses an income-sensitive repayment schedule, but does not provide the documentation requested by the lender under paragraph (a)(6)(viii)(C) of this section within the time period specified by the lender; or

(C) Chooses an income-based repayment schedule, but does not provide the income documentation requested by the lender under §682.215(e)(1)(i) within the time period specified by the lender.

(vi) Under a standard repayment schedule, the borrower is scheduled to pay either—

(A) The same amount for each installment payment made during the repayment period, except that the borrower's final payment may be slightly more or less than the other payments; or

(B) An installment amount that will be adjusted to reflect annual changes in the loan's variable interest rate.

(vii) Under a graduated repayment schedule—

(A)( 1 ) The amount of the borrower's installment payment is scheduled to change (usually by increasing) during the course of the repayment period; or

( 2 ) If the loan has a variable interest rate that changes annually, the lender may establish a repayment schedule that may have adjustments in the payment amount as provided under paragraph (a)(6)(i) of this section; and

(B) An agreement as specified in paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section is not required if the schedule provides for less than the minimum annual payment amount specified in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section.

(viii) Under an income-sensitive repayment schedule—

(A)( 1 ) The amount of the borrower's installment payment is adjusted annually, based on the borrower's expected total monthly gross income received by the borrower from employment and from other sources during the course of the repayment period; or

( 2 ) If the loan has a variable interest rate that changes annually, the lender may establish a repayment schedule that may have adjustments in the payment amount as provided under paragraph (a)(6)(i) of this section; and

(B) In general, the lender shall request the borrower to inform the lender of his or her income no earlier than 90 days prior to the due date of the borrower's initial installment payment and subsequent annual payment adjustment under an income-sensitive repayment schedule. The income information must be sufficient for the lender to make a reasonable determination of what the borrower's payment amount should be. If the lender receives late notification that the borrower has dropped below half-time enrollment status at a school, the lender may request that income information earlier than 90 days prior to the due date of the borrower's initial installment payment;

(C) If the borrower reports income to the lender that the lender considers to be insufficient for establishing monthly installment payments that would repay the loan within the applicable maximum repayment period, the lender shall require the borrower to submit evidence showing the amount of the most recent total monthly gross income received by the borrower from employment and from other sources including, if applicable, pay statements from employers and documentation of any income received by the borrower from other parties;

(D) The lender shall grant a forbearance to the borrower (or endorser, if applicable) for a period of up to 5 years of payments in accordance with §682.211(i)(5) in cases where the effect of decreased installment amounts paid under an income-sensitive repayment schedule would result in a loan not being repaid within the maximum repayment term; and

(E) The lender shall inform the borrower that the loan must be repaid within the time limits specified under paragraph (a)(7) of this section.

(ix) Under an extended repayment schedule, a new borrower whose total outstanding principal and interest in FFEL loans exceed $30,000 may repay the loan on a fixed annual repayment amount or a graduated repayment amount for a period that may not exceed 25 years. For purposes of this section, a “new borrower” is an individual who has no outstanding principal or interest balance on an FFEL Program loan as of October 7, 1998, or on the date he or she obtains an FFEL Program loan after October 7, 1998.

(x) Under an income-based repayment schedule, the borrower repays the loan in accordance with §682.215.

(xi) A borrower may request a change in the repayment schedule on a loan. The lender must permit the borrower to change the repayment schedule no less frequently than annually, or at any time in the case of a borrower in an income-based repayment plan.

(xii) For purposes of this section, a lender shall, to the extent practicable require that all FFEL loans owed by a borrower to the lender be combined into one account and repaid under one repayment schedule. In that event, the word “loan” in this section shall mean all of the borrower's loans that were combined by the lender into that account.

(7)(i) Subject to paragraphs (a)(7)(ii) through (iv) of this section, and except as provided in paragraph (a)(6)(ix) a lender shall allow a borrower at least 5 years, but not more than 10 years, or 25 years under an extended repayment plan to repay a Stafford, SLS, or PLUS loan, calculated from the beginning of the repayment period. Except in the case of a FISL loan for a period of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 1986, the lender shall require a borrower to fully repay a FISL loan within 15 years after it is made.

(ii) If the borrower receives an authorized deferment or is granted forbearance, as described in §682.210 or §682.211 respectively, the periods of deferment or forbearance are excluded from determinations of the 5-, 10-, and 15- and 25–year periods, and from the 10-, 12-, 15-, 20-, 25-, and 30-year periods for repayment of a Consolidation loan pursuant to §682.209(h).

(iii) If the minimum annual repayment required in paragraph (c) of this section would result in complete repayment of the loan in less than 5 years, the borrower is not entitled to the full 5-year period.

(iv) The borrower may, prior to the beginning of the repayment period, request and be granted by the lender a repayment period of less than 5 years. Subject to paragraph (a)(7)(iii) of this section, a borrower who makes such a request may notify the lender at any time to extend the repayment period to a minimum of 5 years.

(8) If, with respect to the aggregate of all loans held by a lender, the total payment made by a borrower for a monthly or similar payment period would not otherwise be a multiple of five dollars, except in the case of payments made under an income-based repayment plan, the lender may round that periodic payment to the next highest whole dollar amount that is a multiple of five dollars.

(b) Payment application and prepayment. (1) Except in the case of payments made under an income-based repayment plan, the lender may credit the entire payment amount first to any late charges accrued or collection costs and then to any outstanding interest and then to outstanding principal.

(2)(i) The borrower may prepay the whole or any part of a loan at any time without penalty.

(ii) If the prepayment amount equals or exceeds the monthly payment amount under the repayment schedule established for the loan, the lender shall apply the prepayment to future installments by advancing the next payment due date, unless the borrower requests otherwise. The lender must either inform the borrower in advance using a prominent statement in the borrower's coupon book or billing statement that any additional full payment amounts submitted without instructions to the lender as to their handling will be applied to future scheduled payments with the borrower's next scheduled payment due date advanced consistent with the number of additional payments received, or provide a notification to the borrower after the payments are received informing the borrower that the payments have been so applied and the date of the borrower's next scheduled payment due date. Information related to next scheduled payment due date need not be provided to borrower's making such prepayments while in an in-school, grace, deferment, or forbearance period when payments are not due.

(c) Minimum annual payment. (1)(i) Subject to paragraph (c)(1)(ii) of this section and except as otherwise provided by a graduated, income-sensitive, extended, or income-based repayment plan selected by the borrower, during each year of the repayment period, a borrower's total payments to all holders of the borrower's FFEL Program loans must total at least $600 or the unpaid balance of all loans, including interest, whichever amount is less.

(ii) If the borrower and the lender agree, the amount paid may be less.

(2) The provisions of paragraphs (c)(1) (i) and (ii) of this section may not result in an extension of the maximum repayment period unless forbearance as described in §682.211, or deferment described in §682.210, has been approved.

(d) Combined repayment of a borrower's student PLUS and SLS loans held by a lender. (1) A lender may, at the request of a student borrower, combine the borrower's, student PLUS and SLS loans held by it into a single repayment schedule.

(2) The repayment period on the loans included in the combined repayment schedule must be calculated based on the beginning of repayment of the most recent included loan.

(3) The interest rate on the loans included in the new combined repayment schedule must be the weighted average of the rates of all included loans.

(e) Refinancing a fixed-rate PLUS or SLS Program loan to secure a variable interest rate. (1) Subject to paragraph (g) of this section, a lender may, at the request of a borrower, refinance a PLUS or SLS loan with a fixed interest rate in order to permit the borrower to obtain a variable interest rate.

(2) A loan made under paragraph (e)(1) of this section—

(i) Must bear interest at the variable rate described in §682.202(a)(2)(ii) and (3)(ii) as appropriate; and

(ii) May not extend the repayment period provided for in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section.

(3) The lender may not charge an additional insurance premium or Federal default fee on the loan, but may charge the borrower an administrative fee pursuant to §682.202(e).

(f) Refinancing of a fixed-rate PLUS or SLS Program loan to secure a variable interest rate by discharge of previous loan. (1) Subject to paragraph (g) of this section, a borrower who has applied for, but been denied, a refinanced loan authorized under paragraph (e) of this section by the holder of the borrower's fixed-rate PLUS or SLS loan, may obtain a loan from another lender for the purpose of discharging the fixed-rate loan and obtaining a variable interest rate.

(2) A loan made under paragraph (f)(1) of this section—

(i) Must bear interest at the variable interest rate described in §682.202(a)(2)(ii) and (3)(ii) as appropriate;

(ii) May not operate to extend the repayment period provided for in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section; and

(iii) Must be disbursed to the holder of the fixed-rate loan to discharge the borrower's obligation thereon.

(3) Upon receipt of the proceeds of a loan made under paragraph (f)(1) of this section, the holder of the fixed-rate loan shall, within five business days, apply the proceeds to discharge the borrower's obligation on the fixed-rate loan, and provide the refinancing lender with either a copy of the borrower's original promissory note evidencing the fixed-rate loan or the holder's written certification that the borrower's obligation on the fixed-rate loan has been fully discharged.

(4) The refinancing lender may charge the borrower an insurance premium on a loan made under paragraph (f)(1) of this section, but may not charge a fee to cover administrative costs.

(5) For purposes of deferments under §682.210, the refinancing loan—

(i) Is considered a PLUS loan if any of the included loans is a PLUS loan made to a parent;

(ii) Is considered an SLS loan if the combined loan does not include a PLUS loan made to a parent; or

(iii) Is considered a loan to a “new borrower” as defined in §682.210(b)(7), if all the loans that were refinanced were made on or after July 1, 1987, for a period of enrollment beginning on or after that date.

(g) Conditions for refinancing certain loans. (1) A lender may not refinance a loan under paragraphs (e) or (f) of this section if that loan is in default, involves a violation of a condition of reinsurance described in §682.406, or, in the case of a Federal SLS or Federal PLUS loan, is uninsured by the Secretary.

(2)(i) Prior to refinancing a fixed-rate loan under paragraph (f) of this section, the lender shall obtain a written statement from the holder of the loan certifying that—

(A) The holder has refused to refinance the fixed-rate loan under paragraph (e) of this section; and

(B) The fixed-rate loan is eligible for insurance or reinsurance under paragraph (g)(1) of this section.

(ii) The holder of the fixed-rate loan shall, within 10 business days of receiving a lender's written request to provide a certification under paragraph (g)(2)(i) of this section, provide the lender with that certification, or provide the lender and the guarantor on the loan with a written explanation of the reasons for its inability to provide the certification to the requesting lender.

(iii) The refinancing lender may rely in good faith on the certification provided by the holder of the fixed-rate loan under paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this section.

(h) Consolidation loans. (1) For a Consolidation loan, the repayment period begins on the day of disbursement, with the first payment due within 60 days after the date of disbursement.

(2) If the sum of the amount of the Consolidation loan and the unpaid balance on other student loans to the applicant—

(i) Is less than $7,500, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 10 years;

(ii) Is equal to or greater than $7,500 but less than $10,000, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 12 years;

(iii) Is equal to or greater than $10,000 but less than $20,000, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 15 years;

(iv) Is equal to or greater than $20,000 but less than $40,000, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 20 years;

(v) Is equal to or greater than $40,000 but less than $60,000, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 25 years; or

(vi) Is equal to or greater than $60,000, the borrower shall repay the Consolidation loan in not more than 30 years.

(3) For the purpose of paragraph (h)(2) of this section, the unpaid balance on other student loans—

(i) May not exceed the amount of the Consolidation loan; and

(ii) With the exception of the defaulted title IV loans on which the borrower has made satisfactory repayment arrangements with the holder of the loan, does not include the unpaid balance on any defaulted loans.

(4) A repayment schedule for a Consolidation loan—

(i) Must be established by the lender;

(ii) Must require that each payment equal at least the interest that accrues during the interval between scheduled payments.

(5) Upon receipt of the proceeds of a loan made under paragraph (h)(2) of this section, the holder of the underlying loan shall promptly apply the proceeds to discharge fully the borrower's obligation on the underlying loan, and provide the consolidating lender with the holder's written certification that the borrower's obligation on the underlying loan has been fully discharged.

(i) Treatment by a lender of borrowers' title IV, HEA program funds received from schools if the borrower withdraws. (1) A lender shall treat a refund or a return of title IV, HEA program funds under §668.22 when a student withdraws received by the lender from a school as a credit against the principal amount owed by the borrower on the borrower's loan.

(2)(i) If a lender receives a refund or a return of title IV, HEA program funds under §668.22 when a student withdraws from a school on a loan that is no longer held by that lender, or that has been discharged by another lender by refinancing under §682.209(f) or by a Consolidation loan, the lender must transmit the amount of the payment, within 30 days of its receipt, to the lender to whom it assigned the loan, or to the lender that discharged the prior loan, with an explanation of the source of the payment.

(ii) Upon receipt of a refund or a return of title IV, HEA program funds transmitted under paragraph (i)(2)(i) of this section, the holder of the loan promptly must provide written notice to the borrower that the holder has received the return of title IV, HEA program funds.

(j) Certification on loans to be repaid through consolidation. Within 10 business days after receiving a written request for a certification from a lender under §682.206(f), a holder shall either provide the requesting lender the certification or, if it is unable to certify to the matters described in that paragraph, provide the requesting lender and the guarantor on the loan at issue with a written explanation of the reasons for its inability to provide the certification.

(k) Any lender holding a loan is subject to all claims and defenses that the borrower could assert against the school with respect to that loan if—

(1) The loan was made by the school or a school-affiliated organization;

(2) The lender who made the loan provided an improper inducement, as described in paragraph (5)(i) of the definition of Lender in §682.200(b), to the school or any other party in connection with the making of the loan;

(3) The school refers borrowers to the lender; or

(4) The school is affiliated with the lender by common control, contract, or business arrangement.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1079, 1082, 1085)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992]

Editorial Note:   ForFederal Registercitations affecting §682.209, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and on GPO Access.

§ 682.210   Deferment.

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55994, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. (1)(i) A borrower is entitled to have periodic installment payments of principal deferred during authorized periods after the beginning of the repayment period, pursuant to paragraph (b) of this section.

(ii) With the exception of a deferment authorized under paragraph (o) of this section, a borrower may continue to receive a specific type of deferment that is limited to a maximum period of time only if the total amount of time that the borrower has received the deferment does not exceed the maximum time period allowed for the deferment.

(2)(i) For a loan made before October 1, 1981, the borrower is also entitled to have periodic installments of principal deferred during the six-month period (post-deferment grace period) that begins after the completion of each deferment period or combination of those periods, except as provided in paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of this section.

(ii) Once a borrower receives a post-deferment grace period following an unemployment deferment, as described in paragraph (b)(1)(v) of this section, the borrower does not qualify for additional post-deferment grace periods following subsequent unemployment deferments.

(3) Interest accrues and is paid by the borrower during the deferment period and the post-deferment grace period, if applicable, unless interest accrues and is paid by the Secretary for a Stafford loan and for all or a portion of a qualifying Consolidation loan that meets the requirements under §682.301.

(4) As a condition for receiving a deferment, except for purposes of paragraphs (c)(1)(ii) and (iii) of this section, the borrower must request the deferment, and provide the lender with all information and documents required to establish eligibility for a specific type of deferment.

(5) An authorized deferment period begins on the date that the holder determines is the date that the condition entitling the borrower to the deferment first existed, except that an initial unemployment deferment as described in paragraph (h)(2) of this section cannot begin more than 6 months before the date the holder receives a request and documentation required for the deferment.

(6) An authorized deferment period ends on the earlier of—

(i) The date when the condition establishing the borrower's eligibility for the deferment ends;

(ii) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(6)(iv) of this section, the date on which, as certified by an authorized official, the borrower's eligibility for the deferment is expected to end;

(iii) Except as provided in paragraph (a)(6)(iv) of this section, the expiration date of the period covered by any certification required by this section to be obtained for the deferment;

(iv) In the case of an in-school deferment, the student's anticipated graduation date as certified by an authorized official of the school; or

(v) The date when the condition providing the basis for the borrower's eligibility for the deferment has continued to exist for the maximum amount of time allowed for that type of deferment.

(7) A lender may not deny a borrower a deferment to which the borrower is entitled, even though the borrower may be delinquent, but not in default, in making required installment payments. The 270– or 330–day period required to establish default does not run during the deferment and post-deferment grace periods. Unless the lender has granted the borrower forbearance under §682.211, when the deferment and, if applicable, the post-deferment grace period expire, a borrower resumes any delinquency status that existed when the deferment period began.

(8) A borrower whose loan is in default is not eligible for a deferment on that loan, unless the borrower has made payment arrangements acceptable to the lender prior to the payment of a default claim by a guaranty agency.

(9) The borrower promptly must inform the lender when the condition entitling the borrower to a deferment no longer exists.

(10) Authorized deferments are described in paragraph (b) of this section. Specific requirements for each deferment are set forth in paragraphs (c) through (s) of this section.

(11) If two individuals are jointly liable for repayment of a PLUS loan or a Consolidation loan, the lender shall grant a request for deferment if both individuals simultaneously meet the requirements of this section for receiving the same, or different deferments.

(b) Authorized deferments. (1) Deferment is authorized for a FFEL borrower during any period when the borrower is—

(i) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(5) of this section, engaged in full-time study at a school, or at a school that is operated by the Federal Government (e.g., the service academies), unless the borrower is not a national of the United States and is pursuing a course of study at a school not located in a State;

(ii) Engaged in a course of study under an eligible graduate fellowship program;

(iii) Engaged in a rehabilitation training program for disabled individuals;

(iv) Temporarily totally disabled, or unable to secure employment because the borrower is caring for a spouse or other dependent who is disabled and requires continuous nursing or similar services for up to three years; or

(v) Conscientiously seeking, but unable to find, full-time employment in the United States, for up to two years.

(2) For a borrower of a Stafford or SLS loan, and for a parent borrower of a PLUS loan made before August 15, 1983, deferment is authorized during any period when the borrower is—

(i) On active duty status in the United States Armed Forces, or an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service, for up to three years (including any period during which the borrower received a deferment authorized under paragraph (b)(5)(i) of this section);

(ii) A full-time volunteer under the Peace Corps Act, for up to three years;

(iii) A full-time volunteer under title I of the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 (ACTION programs), for up to three years;

(iv) A full-time volunteer for a tax-exempt organization, for up to three years; or

(v) Engaged in an internship of residency program, for up to two years (including any period during which the borrower received a deferment authorized under paragraph (b)(5)(iii) of this section).

(3) For a borrower of a Stafford or SLS loan who has been enrolled on at least a half-time basis at an institution of higher education during the six months preceding the beginning of this deferment, deferment is authorized during a period of up to six months during which the borrower is—

(i) (A) Pregnant;

(B) Caring for his or her newborn child; or

(C) Caring for a child immediately following the placement of the child with the borrower before or immediately following adoption; and

(ii) Not attending a school or gainfully employed.

(4) For a “new borrower,” as defined in paragraph (b)(7) of this section, deferment is authorized during periods when the borrower is engaged in at least half-time study at a school, unless the borrower is not a national of the United States and is pursuing a course of study at a school not located in a State.

(5) For a new borrower, as defined in paragraph (b)(7) of this section, of a Stafford or SLS loan, deferment is authorized during any period when the borrower is—

(i) On active duty status in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Corps, for up to three years (including any period during which the borrower received a deferment authorized under paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section);

(ii) Up to three years of service as a full-time teacher in a public or non-profit private elementary or secondary school in a teacher shortage area designated by the Secretary under paragraph (q) of this section.

(iii) Engaged in an internship or residency program, for up to two years (including any period during which the borrower received a deferment authorized under paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section); or

(iv) A mother who has preschool-age children (i.e., children who have not enrolled in first grade) and who is earning not more than $1 per hour above the Federal minimum wage, for up to 12 months of employment, and who began that full-time employment within one year of entering or re-entering the work force. Full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work a week and it expected to last at least 3 months.

(6) For a parent borrower of a PLUS loan, deferment is authorized during any period when a student on whose behalf the parent borrower received the loan—

(i) Is not independent as defined in section 480(d) of the Act; and

(ii) Meets the conditions and provides the required documentation, for any of the deferments described in paragraphs (b)(1)(i)–(iii) and (b)(4) of this section.

(7) For purposes of paragraph (b)(5) of this section, a “new borrower” with respect to a loan is a borrower who, on the date he or she signs the promissory note, has no outstanding balance on—

(i) A Stafford, SLS, or PLUS loan made prior to July 1, 1987 for a period of enrollment beginning prior to July 1, 1987; or

(ii) A Consolidation loan that repaid a loan made prior to July 1, 1987 and for a period of enrollment beginning prior to July 1, 1987.

(c) In-school deferment. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(5) of this section, the lender processes a deferment for full-time study or half-time study at a school, when—

(i) The borrower submits a request and supporting documentation for a deferment;

(ii) The lender receives information from the borrower's school about the borrower's eligibility in connection with a new loan; or

(iii) The lender receives student status information from the borrower's school, either directly or indirectly, indicating that the borrower's enrollment status supports eligibility for a deferment.

(2) The lender must notify the borrower that a deferment has been granted based on paragraph (c)(1)(ii) or (iii) of this section and that the borrower has the option to pay interest that accrues on an unsubsidized FFEL Program loan or to cancel the deferment and continue paying on the loan. The lender must include in the notice an explanation of the consequences of these options.

(3) The lender must consider a deferment granted on the basis of a certified loan application or other information certified by the school to cover the period lasting until the anticipated graduation date appearing on the application, and as updated by notice or SSCR update to the lender from the school or guaranty agency, unless and until it receives notice that the borrower has ceased the level of study ( i.e., full-time or half-time) required for the deferment.

(4) In the case of a FFEL borrower, the lender shall treat a certified loan application or other form certified by the school or for multiple holders of a borrower's loans, shared data from the Student Status Confirmation Report, as sufficient documentation for an in-school student deferment for any outstanding FFEL loan previously made to the borrower that is held by the lender.

(5) A borrower serving in a medical internship or residency program, except for an internship in dentistry, is prohibited from receiving or continuing a deferment on a Stafford, or a PLUS (unless based on the dependent's status) SLS, or Consolidation loan under paragraph (c) of this section.

(d) Graduate fellowship deferment. (1) To qualify for a deferment for study in a graduate fellowship program, a borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the borrower's fellowship program certifying—

(i) That the borrower holds at least a baccalaureate degree conferred by an institution of higher education;

(ii) That the borrower has been accepted or recommended by an institution of higher education for acceptance on a full-time basis into an eligible graduate fellowship program; and

(iii) The borrower's anticipated completion date in the program.

(2) For purposes of paragraph (d)(1) of this section, an eligible graduate fellowship program is a fellowship program that—

(i) Provides sufficient financial support to graduate fellows to allow for full-time study for at least six months;

(ii) Requires a written statement from each applicant explaining the applicant's objectives before the award of that financial support;

(iii) Requires a graduate fellow to submit periodic reports, projects, or evidence of the fellow's progress; and

(iv) In the case of a course of study at a foreign university, accepts the course of study for completion of the fellowship program.

(e) Rehabilitation training program deferment. (1) To qualify for a rehabilitation training program deferment, a borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the borrower's rehabilitation training program certifying that the borrower is either receiving, or is scheduled to receive, services under an eligible rehabilitation training program for disabled individuals.

(2) For purposes of paragraph (e)(1) of this section, an eligible rehabilitation training program for disabled individuals is a program that—

(i) Is licensed, approved, certified, or otherwise recognized as providing rehabilitation training to disabled individuals by—

(A) A State agency with responsibility for vocational rehabilitation programs;

(B) A State agency with responsibility for drug abuse treatment programs;

(C) A State agency with responsibility for mental health services program;

(D) A State agency with responsibility for alcohol abuse treatment programs; or

(E) The Department of Veterans Affairs; and

(ii) Provides or will provide the borrower with rehabilitation services under a written plan that—

(A) Is individualized to meet the borrower's needs;

(B) Specifies the date on which the services to the borrower are expected to end; and

(C) Is structured in a way that requires a substantial commitment by the borrower to his or her rehabilitation. The Secretary considers a substantial commitment by the borrower to be a commitment of time and effort that normally would prevent an individual from engaging in full-time employment, either because of the number of hours that must be devoted to rehabilitation or because of the nature of the rehabilitation. For the purpose of this paragraph, full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work per week and is expected to last at least three months.

(f) Temporary total disability deferment. (1) To qualify for a temporary total disability deferment, a borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from a physician, who is a doctor of medicine or osteopathy and is legally authorized to practice, certifying that the borrower is temporarily totally disabled as defined in §682.200(b).

(2) A borrower is not considered temporarily totally disabled on the basis of a condition that existed before he or she applied for the loan, unless the condition has substantially deteriorated so as to render the borrower temporarily totally disabled, as substantiated by the statement required under paragraph (f)(1) of this section, after the borrower submitted the loan application.

(3) A lender may not grant a deferment based on a single certification under paragraph (f)(1) of this section beyond the date that is six months after the date of certification.

(g) Dependent's disability deferment. (1) To qualify for a deferment given to a borrower whose spouse or other dependent requires continuous nursing or similar services for a period of at least 90 days, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement—

(i) From a physician, who is a doctor of medicine or osteopathy and is legally authorized to practice, certifying that the borrower's spouse or dependent requires continuous nursing or similar services for a period of at least 90 days; and

(ii) From the borrower, certifying that the borrower is unable to secure full-time employment because he or she is providing continuous nursing or similar services to the borrower's spouse or other dependent. For the purpose of this paragraph, full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work per week and is expected to last at least three months.

(2) A lender may not grant a deferment based on a single certification under paragraph (g)(1) of this section beyond the date that is six months after the date of the certification.

(h) Unemployment deferment. (1) A borrower qualifies for an unemployment deferment by providing evidence of eligibility for unemployment benefits to the lender.

(2) A borrower also qualifies for an unemployment deferment by providing to the lender a written certification, or an equivalent as approved by the Secretary, that—

(i) The borrower has registered with a public or private employment agency, if one is available to the borrower within a 50-mile radius of the borrower's current address; and

(ii) For all requests beyond the initial request, the borrower has made at least six diligent attempts during the preceding 6-month period to secure full-time employment.

(3) For purposes of obtaining an unemployment deferment under paragraph (h)(2) of this section, the following rules apply:

(i) A borrower may qualify for an unemployment deferment whether or not the borrower has been previously employed.

(ii) An unemployment deferment is not justified if the borrower refuses to seek or accept employment in kinds of positions or at salary and responsibility levels for which the borrower feels overqualified by virtue of education or previous experience.

(iii) Full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work a week and is expected to last at least three months.

(iv) The initial period of unemployment deferment may be granted for a period of unemployment beginning up to 6 months before the date the lender receives the borrower's request, and may be granted for up to 6 months after that date.

(4) A lender may not grant an unemployment deferment beyond the date that is 6 months after the date the borrower provides evidence of the borrower's eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits under paragraph (h)(1) of this section or the date the borrower provides the written certification, or an approved equivalent, under paragraph (h)(2) of this section.

(i) Military deferment. (1) To qualify for a military deferment, a borrower or a borrower's representative shall provide the lender with—

(i) A written statement from the borrower's commanding or personnel officer certifying—

(A) That the borrower is on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States;

(B) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(C) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end; or

(ii)(A) A copy of the borrower's official military orders; and

(B) A copy of the borrower's military identification.

(2) For the purpose of this section, the Armed Forces means the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard.

(3) A borrower enlisted in a reserve component of the Armed Forces may qualify for a military deferment only for service on a full-time basis that is expected to last for a period of at least one year in length, as evidenced by official military orders, unless an order for national mobilization of reservists is issued.

(4) A borrower enlisted in the National Guard qualifies for a military deferment only while the borrower is on active duty status as a member of the U.S. Army or Air Force Reserves, and meets the requirements of paragraph (i)(3) of this section.

(5) A lender that grants a military service deferment based on a request from a borrower's representative must notify the borrower that the deferment has been granted and that the borrower has the option to cancel the deferment and continue to make payments on the loan. The lender may also notify the borrower's representative of the outcome of the deferment request.

(j) Public Health Service deferment. To qualify for a Public Health Service deferment, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) certifying—

(1) That the borrower is engaged in full-time service as an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the USPHS;

(2) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(3) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end.

(k) Peace Corps deferment. (1) To qualify for a deferment for service under the Peace Corps Act, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the Peace Corps certifying—

(i) That the borrower has agreed to serve for a term of at least one year;

(ii) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(iii) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end.

(2) The lender must grant a deferment for the borrower's full term of service in the Peace Corps, not to exceed three years.

(l) Full-time volunteer service in the ACTION programs. To qualify for a deferment as a full-time paid volunteer in an ACTION program, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the program certifying—

(1) That the borrower has agreed to serve for a term of at least one year;

(2) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(3) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end.

(m) Deferment for full-time volunteer service for a tax-exempt organization. To qualify for a deferment as a full-time paid volunteer for a tax-exempt organization, a borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the volunteer program certifying—

(1) That the borrower—

(i) Serves in an organization that has obtained an exemption from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

(ii) Provides service to low-income persons and their communities to assist them in eliminating poverty and poverty-related human, social, and environmental conditions;

(iii) Does not receive compensation that exceeds the rate prescribed under section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (the Federal minimum wage), except that the tax-exempt organization may provide health, retirement, and other fringe benefits to the volunteer that are substantially equivalent to the benefits offered to other employees of the organization;

(iv) Does not, as part of his or her duties, give religious instruction, conduct worship services, engage in religious proselytizing, or engage in fund-raising to support religious activities; and

(v) Has agreed to serve on a full-time basis for a term of at least one year;

(2) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(3) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end.

(n) Internship or residency deferment. (1) To qualify for an internship or residency deferment under paragraphs (b)(2)(v) or (b)(5)(iii) of this section, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the organization with which the borrower is undertaking the internship or residency program certifying—

(i) That the internship or residency program is a supervised training program that requires the borrower to hold at least a baccalaureate degree prior to acceptance into the program;

(ii) That, except for a borrower that provides the statement from a State official described in paragraph (n)(2) of this section, the internship or residency program leads to a degree or certificate awarded by an institution of higher education, a hospital, or a health care facility that offers postgraduate training;

(iii) That the borrower has been accepted into the internship or residency program; and

(iv) The anticipated dates on which the borrower will begin and complete the internship or residency program, or, in the case of a borrower providing the statement described in paragraph (n)(2) of this section, the anticipated date on which the borrower will begin and complete the minimum period of participation in the internship program that the State requires be completed before an individual may be certified for professional practice or service.

(2) For a borrower who does not provide a statement certifying to the matters set forth in paragraph (n)(1)(ii) of this section to qualify for an internship deferment under paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an official of the appropriate State licensing agency certifying that the internship or residency program, or a portion thereof, is required to be completed before the borrower may be certified for professional practice or service.

(o) Parental-leave deferment. (1) To qualify for the parental-leave deferment described in paragraph (b)(3) of this section, the borrower shall provide the lender with—

(i) A statement from an authorized official of a participating school certifying that the borrower was enrolled on at least a half-time basis during the six months preceding the beginning of the deferment period;

(ii) A statement from the borrower certifying that the borrower—

(A) Is pregnant, caring for his or her newborn child, or caring for a child immediately following the placement of the child with the borrower in connection with an adoption;

(B) Is not, and will not be, attending school during the deferment period; and

(C) Is not, and will not be, engaged in full-time employment during the deferment period; and

(iii) A physician's statement demonstrating the existence of the pregnancy, a birth certificate, or a statement from the adoption agency official evidencing a pre-adoption placement.

(2) For purposes of paragraph (o)(1)(ii)(C) of this section, full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work per week and is expected to last at least three months.

(p) NOAA deferment. To qualify for a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) deferment, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement from an authorized official of the NOAA corps, certifying—

(1) That the borrower is on active duty service in the NOAA corps;

(2) The date on which the borrower's service began; and

(3) The date on which the borrower's service is expected to end.

(q) Targeted teacher deferment. (1) To qualify for a targeted teacher deferment under paragraph (b)(5)(ii) of this section, the borrower, for each school year of service for which a deferment is requested, must provide to the lender—

(i) A statement by the chief administrative officer of the public or nonprofit private elementary or secondary school in which the borrower is teaching, certifying that the borrower is employed as a full-time teacher; and

(ii) A certification that he or she is teaching in a teacher shortage area designated by the Secretary as provided in paragraphs (q) (5) through (7) of this section, as described in paragraph (q)(2) of this section.

(2) In order to satisfy the requirement for certification that a borrower is teaching in a teacher shortage area designated by the Secretary, a borrower must do one of the following:

(i) If the borrower is teaching in a State in which the Chief State School Officer has complied with paragraph (q)(3) of this section and provides an annual listing of designated teacher shortage areas to the State's chief administrative officers whose schools are affected by the Secretary's designations, the borrower may obtain a certification that he or she is teaching in a teacher shortage area from his or her school's chief administrative officer.

(ii) If a borrower is teaching in a State in which the Chief State School Officer has not complied with paragraph (q)(3) of this section or does not provide an annual listing of designated teacher shortage areas to the State's chief administrative officers whose schools are affected by the Secretary's designations, the borrower must obtain certification that he or she is teaching in a teacher shortage area from the Chief State School Officer for the State in which the borrower is teaching.

(3) In the case of a State in which borrowers wish to obtain certifications as provided for in paragraph (q)(2)(i) of this section, the State's Chief State School Officer must first have notified the Secretary, by means of a one-time written assurance, that he or she provides annually to the State's chief administrative officers whose schools are affected by the Secretary's designations and the guaranty agency for that State, a listing of the teacher shortage areas designated by the Secretary as provided for in paragraphs (q) (5) through (7) of this section.

(4) If a borrower who receives a deferment continues to teach in the same teacher shortage area as that in which he or she was teaching when the deferment was originally granted, the borrower shall, at the borrower's request, continue to receive the deferment for those subsequent years, up to the three-year maximum deferment period, even if his or her position does not continue to be within an area designated by the Secretary as a teacher shortage area in those subsequent years. To continue to receive the deferment in a subsequent year under this paragraph, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement by the chief administrative officer of the public or nonprofit private elementary or secondary school that employs the borrower, certifying that the borrower continues to be employed as a full-time teacher in the same teacher shortage area for which the deferment was received for the previous year.

(5) For purposes of this section a teacher shortage area is—

(i)(A) A geographic region of the State in which there is a shortage of elementary or secondary school teachers; or

(B) A specific grade level or academic, instructional, subject-matter, or discipline classification in which there is a statewide shortage of elementary or secondary school teachers; and

(ii) Designated by the Secretary under paragraphs (q)(6) or (q)(7) of this section.

(6)(i) In order for the Secretary to designate one or more teacher shortage areas in a State for a school year, the Chief State School Officer shall by January 1 of the calendar year in which the school year begins, and in accordance with objective written standards, propose teacher shortage areas to the Secretary for designation. With respect to private nonprofit schools included in the recommendation, the Chief State School Officer shall consult with appropriate officials of the private nonprofit schools in the State prior to submitting the recommendation.

(ii) In identifying teacher shortage areas to propose for designation under paragraph (q)(6)(i) of this section, the Chief State School Officer shall consider data from the school year in which the recommendation is to be made, unless that data is not yet available, in which case he or she may use data from the immediately preceding school year, with respect to—

(A) Teaching positions that are unfilled;

(B) Teaching positions that are filled by teachers who are certified by irregular, provisional, temporary, or emergency certification; and

(C) Teaching positions that are filled by teachers who are certified, but who are teaching in academic subject areas other than their area of preparation.

(iii) If the total number of unduplicated full-time equivalent (FTE) elementary or secondary teaching positions identified under paragraph (q)(6)(ii) of this section in the shortage areas proposed by the State for designation does not exceed 5 percent of the total number of FTE elementary and secondary teaching positions in the State, the Secretary designates those areas as teacher shortage areas.

(iv) If the total number of unduplicated FTE elementary and secondary teaching positions identified under paragraph (q)(6)(ii) of this section in the shortage areas proposed by the State for designation exceeds 5 percent of the total number of elementary and secondary FTE teaching positions in the State, the Chief State School Officer shall submit, with the list of proposed areas, supporting documentation showing the methods used for identifying shortage areas, and an explanation of the reasons why the Secretary should nevertheless designate all of the proposed areas as teacher shortage areas. The explanation must include a ranking of the proposed shortage areas according to priority, to assist the Secretary in determining which areas should be designated. The Secretary, after considering the explanation, determines which shortage areas to designate as teacher shortage areas.

(7) A Chief State School Officer may submit to the Secretary for approval an alternative written procedure to the one described in paragraph (q)(6) of this section, for the Chief State School Officer to use to select the teacher shortage areas recommended to the Secretary for designation, and for the Secretary to use to choose the areas to be designated. If the Secretary approves the proposed alternative procedure, in writing, that procedure, once approved, may be used instead of the procedure described in paragraph (q)(6) of this section for designation of teacher shortage areas in that State.

(8) For purposes of paragraphs (q)(1) through (7) of this section—

(i) The definition of the term school in §682.200(b) does not apply;

(ii) Elementary school means a day or residential school that provides elementary education, as determined under State law;

(iii) Secondary school means a day or residential school that provides secondary education, as determined under State law. In the absence of applicable State law, the Secretary may determine, with respect to that State, whether the term “secondary school” includes education beyond the twelfth grade;

(iv) Teacher means a professional who provides direct and personal services to students for their educational development through classroom teaching;

(v) Chief State School Officer means the highest ranking educational official for elementary and secondary education for the State;

(vi) School year means the period from July 1 of a calendar year through June 30 of the following calendar year;

(vii) Teacher shortage area means an area of specific grade, subject matter, or discipline classification, or a geographic area in which the Secretary determines that there is an inadequate supply of elementary or secondary school teachers; and

(viii) Full-time equivalent means the standard used by a State in defining full-time employment, but not less than 30 hours per week. For purposes of counting full-time equivalent teacher positions, a teacher working part of his or her total hours in a position that is designated as a teacher shortage area is counted on a pro rata basis corresponding to the percentage of his or her working hours spent in such a position.

(r) Working-mother deferment. (1) To qualify for the working-mother deferment described in paragraph (b)(5)(iv) of this section, the borrower shall provide the lender with a statement certifying that she—

(i) Is the mother of a preschool-age child;

(ii) Entered or reentered the workforce not more than one year before the beginning date of the period for which the deferment is being sought;

(iii) Is currently engaged in full-time employment; and

(iv) Does not receive compensation that exceeds $1 per hour above the rate prescribed under section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (the Federal minimum wage).

(2) In addition to the certification required under paragraph (r)(1) of this section, the borrower shall provide to the lender documents demonstrating the age of her child (e.g., a birth certificate) and the rate of her compensation (e.g., a pay stub showing her hourly rate of pay).

(3) For purposes of this paragraph—

(i) A preschool-age child is one who has not yet enrolled in first grade or a higher grade in elementary school; and

(ii) Full-time employment involves at least 30 hours of work a week and is expected to last at least 3 months.

(s) Deferments for new borrowers on or after July 1, 1993 —(1) General. (i) A new borrower who receives an FFEL Program loan first disbursed on or after July 1, 1993 is entitled to receive deferments under paragraphs (s)(2) through (s)(6) of this section. For purposes of paragraphs (s)(2) through (s)(6) of this section, a “new borrower” is an individual who has no outstanding principal or interest balance on an FFEL Program loan as of July 1, 1993 or on the date he or she obtains a loan on or after July 1, 1993. This term also includes a borrower who obtains a Federal Consolidation Loan on or after July 1, 1993 if the borrower has no other outstanding FFEL Program loan when the Consolidation Loan was made.

(ii) As a condition for receiving a deferment, except for purposes of paragraph (s)(2) of this section, the borrower must request the deferment and provide the lender with all information and documents required to establish eligibility for the deferment.

(iii) After receiving a borrower's written or verbal request, a lender may grant a deferment under paragraphs (s)(3) through (s)(6) of this section if the lender is able to confirm that the borrower has received a deferment on another FFEL loan or on a Direct Loan for the same reason and the same time period. The lender may grant the deferment based on information from the other FFEL loan holder or the Secretary or from an authoritative electronic database maintained or authorized by the Secretary that supports eligibility for the deferment for the same reason and the same time period.

(iv) A lender may rely in good faith on the information it receives under paragraph (s)(1)(iii) of this section when determining a borrower's eligibility for a deferment unless the lender, as of the date of the determination, has information indicating that the borrower does not qualify for the deferment. A lender must resolve any discrepant information before granting a deferment under paragraph (s)(1)(iii) of this section.

(v) A lender that grants a deferment under paragraph (s)(1)(iii) of this section must notify the borrower that the deferment has been granted and that the borrower has the option to pay interest that accrues on an unsubsidized FFEL loan or to cancel the deferment and continue to make payments on the loan.

(2) In-school deferment. An eligible borrower is entitled to a deferment based on the borrower's at least half-time study in accordance with the rules prescribed in §682.210(c), except that the borrower is not required to obtain a Stafford or SLS loan for the period of enrollment covered by the deferment.

(3) Graduate fellowship deferment. An eligible borrower is entitled to a graduate fellowship deferment in accordance with the rules prescribed in §682.210(d).

(4) Rehabilitation training program deferment. An eligible borrower is entitled to a rehabilitation training program deferment in accordance with the rules prescribed in §682.210(e).

(5) Unemployment deferment. An eligible borrower is entitled to an unemployment deferment in accordance with the rules prescribed in §682.210(h) for periods that, collectively, do not exceed 3 years.

(6) Economic hardship deferment. An eligible borrower is entitled to an economic hardship deferment for periods of up to one year at a time that, collectively, do not exceed 3 years (except that a borrower who receives a deferment under paragraph (s)(6)(vi) of this section is entitled to an economic hardship deferment for the lesser of the borrower's full term of service in the Peace Corps or the borrower's remaining period of economic hardship deferment eligibility under the 3-year maximum), if the borrower provides documentation satisfactory to the lender showing that the borrower is within any of the categories described in paragraphs (s)(6)(i) through (s)(6)(vi) of this section.

(i) Has been granted an economic hardship deferment under either the Direct Loan or Federal Perkins Loan Programs for the period of time for which the borrower has requested an economic hardship deferment for his or her FFEL loan.

(ii) Is receiving payment under a Federal or State public assistance program, such as Aid to Families with Dependent Children, Supplemental Security Income, Food Stamps, or State general public assistance.

(iii) Is working full-time and has a monthly income that does not exceed the greater of (as calculated on a monthly basis)—

(A) The minimum wage rate described in section 6 of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938; or

(B) An amount equal to 150 percent of the poverty guideline applicable to the borrower's family size as published annually by the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 9902(2). If a borrower is not a resident of a State identified in the poverty guidelines, the poverty guideline to be used for the borrower is the poverty guideline (for the relevant family size) used for the 48 contiguous States.

(iv) Is serving as a volunteer in the Peace Corps.

(v) For an initial period of deferment granted under paragraph (s)(6)(iii) of this section, the lender must require the borrower to submit evidence showing the amount of the borrower's monthly income.

(vi) To qualify for a subsequent period of deferment that begins less than one year after the end of a period of deferment under paragraph (s)(6)(iii) of this section, the lender must require the borrower to submit evidence showing the amount of the borrower's monthly income or a copy of the borrower's most recently filed Federal income tax return.

(vii) For purposes of paragraph (s)(6) of this section, a borrower's monthly income is the gross amount of income received by the borrower from employment and from other sources, or one-twelfth of the borrower's adjusted gross income, as recorded on the borrower's most recently filed Federal income tax return.

(viii) For purposes of paragraph (s)(6) of this section, a borrower is considered to be working full-time if the borrower is expected to be employed for at least three consecutive months at 30 hours per week.

(ix) For purposes of paragraph (s)(6)(iii)(B) of this section, family size means the number that is determined by counting the borrower, the borrower's spouse, and the borrower's children, including unborn children who will be born during the period covered by the deferment, if the children receive more than half their support from the borrower. A borrower's family size includes other individuals if, at the time the borrower requests the economic hardship deferment, the other individuals—

(A) Live with the borrower; and

(B) Receive more than half their support from the borrower and will continue to receive this support from the borrower for the year the borrower certifies family size. Support includes money, gifts, loans, housing, food, clothes, car, medical and dental care, and payment of college costs.

(t) Military service deferments. (1) A borrower who receives a FFEL Program loan may receive a military service deferment for such loan for any period during which the borrower is—

(i) Serving on active duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency; or

(ii) Performing qualifying National Guard duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency.

(2) For a borrower whose active duty service includes October 1, 2007, or begins on or after that date, the deferment period ends 180 days after the demobilization date for each period of service described in paragraph (t)(1)(i) and (t)(1)(ii) of this section.

(3) Serving on active duty during a war or other military operation or national emergency means service by an individual who is—

(i) A Reserve of an Armed Force ordered to active duty under 10 U.S.C. 12301(a), 12301(g), 12302, 12304 or 12306;

(ii) A retired member of an Armed Force ordered to active duty under 10 U.S.C. 688 for service in connection with a war or other military operation or national emergency, regardless of the location at which such active duty service is performed; or

(iii) Any other member of an Armed Force on active duty in connection with such emergency or subsequent actions or conditions who has been assigned to a duty station at a location other than the location at which member is normally assigned.

(4) Qualifying National Guard duty during a war or other operation or national emergency means service as a member of the National Guard on full-time National Guard duty, as defined in 10 U.S.C. 101(d)(5), under a call to active service authorized by the President or the Secretary of Defense for a period of more than 30 consecutive days under 32 U.S.C. 502(f) in connection with a war, other military operation, or national emergency declared by the President and supported by Federal funds.

(5) Payments made by or on behalf of a borrower during a period for which the borrower qualified for a military service deferment are not refunded.

(6) As used in this paragraph—

(i) Active duty means active duty as defined in 10 U.S.C. 101(d)(1) except that it does not include active duty for training or attendance at a service school;

(ii) Military operation means a contingency operation as defined in 10 U.S.C. 101(a)(13); and

(iii) National emergency means the national emergency by reason of certain terrorist attacks declared by the President on September 14, 2001, or subsequent national emergencies declared by the President by reason of terrorist attacks.

(7) To receive a military service deferment, the borrower, or the borrower's representative, must request the deferment and provide the lender with all information and documents required to establish eligibility for the deferment, except that a lender may grant a borrower a military service deferment under the procedures specified in paragraphs (s)(1)(iii) through (s)(1)(v) of this section.

(8) A lender that grants a military service deferment based on a request from a borrower's representative must notify the borrower that the deferment has been granted and that the borrower has the option to cancel the deferment and continue to make payments on the loan. The lender may also notify the borrower's representative of the outcome of the deferment request.

(9) Without supporting documentation, a military service deferment may be granted to an otherwise eligible borrower for a period not to exceed the initial 12 months from the date the qualifying eligible service began based on a request from the borrower or the borrower's representative.

(u) Post-active duty student deferment. (1) Effective October 1, 2007, a borrower who receives a FFEL Program loan and is serving on active duty on that date, or begins serving on or after that date, is entitled to receive a post-active duty student deferment for 13 months following the conclusion of the borrower's active duty military service and any applicable grace period if—

(i) The borrower is a member of the National Guard or other reserve component of the Armed Forces of the United States or a member of such forces in retired status; and

(ii) The borrower was enrolled, on at least a half-time basis, in a program of instruction at an eligible institution at the time, or within six months prior to the time, the borrower was called to active duty.

(2) As used in paragraph (u)(1) of this section, “active duty” means active duty as defined in section 101(d)(1) of title 10, United States Code for at least a 30-day period, except that—

(i) Active duty includes active State duty for members of the National Guard under which a Governor activates National Guard personnel based on State statute or policy and the activities of the National Guard are paid for with State funds;

(ii) Active duty includes full-time National Guard duty under which a Governor is authorized, with the approval of the President or the U.S. Secretary of Defense, to order a member to State active duty and the activities of the National Guard are paid for with Federal funds;

(iii) Active duty does not include active duty for training or attendance at a service school; and

(iv) Active duty does not include employment in a full-time, permanent position in the National Guard unless the borrower employed in such a position is reassigned to active duty under paragraph (u)(2)(i) of this section or full-time National Guard duty under paragraph (u)(2)(ii) of this section.

(3) If the borrower returns to enrolled student status, on at least a half-time basis, during the 13-month deferment period, the deferment expires at the time the borrower returns to enrolled student status, on at least a half-time basis.

(4) If a borrower qualifies for both a military service deferment and a post-active duty student deferment, the 180-day post-demobilization military service deferment period and the 13-month post-active duty student deferment period apply concurrently.

(5) To receive a military active duty student deferment, the borrower must request the deferment and provide the lender with all information and documents required to establish eligibility for the deferment, except that a lender may grant a borrower a military active duty student deferment under the procedures specified in paragraphs (s)(1)(iii) through (s)(1)(v) of this section.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, 1085)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9120, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 25746, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33594, June 29, 1994; 59 FR 61215, Nov. 29, 1994; 60 FR 30788, June 12, 1995; 60 FR 61756, Dec. 1, 1995; 64 FR 18977, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 57531, Oct. 25, 1999; 64 FR 58626, Oct. 29, 1999; 64 FR 58958, Nov. 1, 1999; 65 FR 65619, Nov. 1, 2000; 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 67 FR 67078, Nov. 1, 2002; 68 FR 75429, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 45701, Aug. 9, 2006; 72 FR 62001, Nov. 1, 2007; 73 FR 63248, Oct. 23, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55994, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a)(1) The Secretary encourages a lender to grant forbearance for the benefit of a borrower or endorser in order to prevent the borrower or endorser from defaulting on the borrower's or endorser's repayment obligation, or to permit the borrower or endorser to resume honoring that obligation after default. Forbearance means permitting the temporary cessation of payments, allowing an extension of time for making payments, or temporarily accepting smaller payments than previously were scheduled.

(2) Subject to paragraph (g) of this section, a lender may grant forbearance of payments of principal and interest under paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section only if—

(i) The lender reasonably believes, and documents in the borrower's file, that the borrower or endorser intends to repay the loan but, due to poor health or other acceptable reasons, is currently unable to make scheduled payments; or

(ii) The borrower's payments of principal are deferred under §682.210 and the Secretary does not pay interest benefits on behalf of the borrower under §682.301.

(3) If two individuals are jointly liable for repayment of a PLUS loan or a Consolidation loan, the lender may grant forbearance on repayment of the loan only if the ability of both individuals to make scheduled payments has been impaired based on the same or differing conditions.

(4) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(10) of this section, if payments of interest are forborne, they may be capitalized as provided in §682.202(b).

(b) A lender may grant forbearance if—

(1) The lender and the borrower or endorser agree to the terms of the forbearance and, unless the agreement was in writing, the lender sends, within 30 days, a notice to the borrower or endorser confirming the terms of the forbearance and records the terms of the forbearance in the borrower's file; or

(2) In the case of forbearance of interest during a period of deferment, if the lender informs the borrower at the time the deferment is granted that interest payments are to be forborne.

(c) A lender may grant forbearance for a period of up to one year at a time if both the borrower or endorser and an authorized official of the lender agree to the terms of the forbearance. If the lender and the borrower or endorser agree to the terms orally, the lender must notify the borrower or endorser of the terms within 30 days of that agreement.

(d) A guaranty agency may authorize a lender to grant forbearance to permit a borrower or endorser to resume honoring the agreement to repay the debt after default but prior to claim payment. The terms of the forbearance agreement in this situation must include a new signed agreement to repay the debt.

(e) Except in the case of forbearance of interest payments during a deferment period, if a forbearance involves the postponement of all payments, the lender must contact the borrower or endorser at least once every six months during the period of forbearance to inform the borrower or endorser of—

(1) The outstanding obligation to repay;

(2) The amount of the unpaid principal balance and any unpaid interest that has accrued on the loan;

(3) The fact that interest will accrue on the loan for the full term of the forbearance; and

(4) The borrower's or endorser's option to discontinue the forbearance at any time.

(f) A lender may grant forbearance, upon notice to the borrower or if applicable, the endorser, with respect to payments of interest and principal that are overdue or would be due—

(1) For a properly granted period of deferment for which the lender learns the borrower did not qualify;

(2) Upon the beginning of an authorized deferment period under §682.210, or an administrative forbearance period as specified under paragraph (f)(11) or (i)(2) of this section;

(3) For the period beginning when the borrower entered repayment without the lender's knowledge until the first payment due date was established;

(4) For the period prior to the borrower's filing of a bankruptcy petition as provided in §682.402(f);

(5) For the periods described in §682.402(c) in regard to the borrower's total and permanent disability;

(6) Upon receipt of a valid identity theft report as defined in section 603(q)(4) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681a) or notification from a credit bureau that information furnished by the lender is a result of an alleged identity theft as defined in §682.402(e)(14), for a period not to exceed 120 days necessary for the lender to determine the enforceability of the loan. If the lender determines that the loan does not qualify for discharge under §682.402(e)(1)(i)(C), but is nonetheless unenforceable, the lender must comply with §§682.300(b)(2)(ix) and 682.302(d)(1)(viii).

(7) For a period not to exceed an additional 60 days after the lender has suspended collection activity for the initial 60-day period required pursuant to §682.211(i)(6) and §682.402(b)(3), when the lender receives reliable information that the borrower (or student on whose behalf a parent has borrowed a PLUS Loan) has died;

(8) For periods necessary for the Secretary or guaranty agency to determine the borrower's eligibility for discharge of the loan because of an unpaid refund, attendance at a closed school or false certification of loan eligibility, pursuant to §682.402(d) or (e), or the borrower's or, if applicable, endorser's bankruptcy, pursuant to §682.402(f);

(9) For a period of delinquency at the time a loan is sold or transferred, if the borrower or endorser is less than 60 days delinquent on the loan at the time of sale or transfer;

(10) For a period of delinquency that may remain after a borrower ends a period of deferment or mandatory forbearance until the next due date, which can be no later than 60 days after the period ends;

(11) For a period not to exceed 60 days necessary for the lender to collect and process documentation supporting the borrower's request for a deferment, forbearance, change in repayment plan, or consolidation loan. Interest that accrues during this period is not capitalized; or

(12) For a period not to exceed 3 months when the lender determines that a borrower's ability to make payments has been adversely affected by a natural disaster, a local or national emergency as declared by the appropriate government agency, or a military mobilization.

(13) For a period not to exceed 60 days necessary for the lender to collect and process documentation supporting the borrower's eligibility for loan forgiveness under the income-based repayment program. The lender must notify the borrower that the requirement to make payments on the loans for which forgiveness was requested has been suspended pending approval of the forgiveness by the guaranty agency.

(14) For a period of delinquency at the time a borrower makes a change to the repayment plan.

(g) In granting a forbearance under this section, except for a forbearance under paragraph (i)(5) of this section, a lender shall grant a temporary cessation of payments, unless the borrower chooses another form of forbearance subject to paragraph (a)(1) of this section.

(h) Mandatory forbearance —(1) Medical or dental interns or residents. Upon receipt of a request and sufficient supporting documentation, as described in §682.210(n), from a borrower serving in a medical or dental internship or residency program, a lender shall grant forbearance to the borrower in yearly increments (or a lesser period equal to the actual period during which the borrower is eligible) if the borrower has exhausted his or her eligibility for a deferment under §682.210(n), or the borrower's promissory note does not provide for such a deferment—

(i) For the length of time remaining in the borrower's medical or dental internship or residency that must be successfully completed before the borrower may begin professional practice or service; or

(ii) For the length of time that the borrower is serving in a medical or dental internship or residency program leading to a degree or certificate awarded by an institution of higher education, a hospital, or a health care facility that offers postgraduate training.

(2) Borrowers who are not medical or dental interns or residents, and endorsers. Upon receipt of a request and sufficient supporting documentation from an endorser (if applicable), or from a borrower (other than a borrower who is serving in a medical or dental internship or residency described in paragraph (h)(1) of this section), a lender shall grant forbearance—

(i) In increments up to one year, for periods that collectively do not exceed three years, if—

(A) The borrower or endorser is currently obligated to make payments on Title IV loans; and

(B) The amount of those payments each month (or a proportional share if the payments are due less frequently than monthly) is collectively equal to or greater than 20 percent of the borrower's or endorser's total monthly income;

(ii) In yearly increments (or a lesser period equal to the actual period during which the borrower is eligible) for as long as a borrower—

(A) Is serving in a national service position for which the borrower receives a national service educational award under the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993;

(B) Is performing the type of service that would qualify the borrower for a partial repayment of his or her loan under the Student Loan Repayment Programs administered by the Department of Defense under 10 U.S.C. 2171; or

(C) Is performing the type of service that would qualify the borrower for loan forgiveness and associated forbearance under the requirements of the teacher loan forgiveness program in §682.215; and

(iii) In yearly increments (or a lesser period equal to the actual period for which the borrower is eligible) when a member of the National Guard who qualifies for a post-active duty student deferment, but does not qualify for a military service deferment or other deferment, is engaged in active State duty as defined in §682.210(u)(2)(i) and (ii) for a period of more than 30 consecutive days, beginning—

(A) On the day after the grace period expires for a Stafford loan that has not entered repayment; or

(B) On the day after the borrower ceases at least half-time enrollment, for a FFEL loan in repayment.

(3) Forbearance agreement. After the lender determines the borrower's or endorser's eligibility, and the lender and the borrower or endorser agree to the terms of the forbearance granted under this section, the lender sends, within 30 days, a notice to the borrower or endorser confirming the terms of the forbearance and records the terms of the forbearance in the borrower's file.

(4) Documentation. (i) Before granting a forbearance to a borrower or endorser under paragraph (h)(2)(i) of this section, the lender shall require the borrower or endorser to submit at least the following documentation:

(A) Evidence showing the amount of the most recent total monthly gross income received by the borrower or endorser from employment and from other sources; and

(B) Evidence showing the amount of the monthly payments owed by the borrower or endorser to other entities for the most recent month for the borrower's or endorser's Title IV loans.

(ii) Before granting a forbearance to a borrower or endorser under paragraph (h)(2)(ii)(B) of this section, the lender shall require the borrower or endorser to submit documentation showing the beginning and ending dates that the Department of Defense considers the borrower to be eligible for a partial repayment of his or her loan under the Student Loan Repayment Programs.

(iii) Before granting a forbearance to a borrower under paragraph (h)(2)(ii)(C) of this section, the lender must require the borrower to—

(A) Submit documentation for the period of the annual forbearance request showing the beginning and anticipated ending dates that the borrower is expected to perform, for that year, the type of service described in §682.215(c); and

(B) Certify the borrower's intent to satisfy the requirements of §682.215(c).

(i) Mandatory administrative forbearance. (1) The lender shall grant a mandatory administrative forbearance for the periods specified in paragraph (i)(2) of this section until the lender is notified by the Secretary or a guaranty agency that the forbearance period no longer applies. The lender may not require a borrower who is eligible for a forbearance under paragraph (i)(2)(ii) of this section to submit a request or supporting documentation, but shall require a borrower (or endorser, if applicable) who requests forbearance because of a military mobilization to provide documentation showing that he or she is subject to a military mobilization as described in paragraph (i)(4) of this section.

(2) The lender is not required to notify the borrower (or endorser, if applicable) at the time the forbearance is granted, but shall grant a forbearance to a borrower or endorser during a period, and the 30 days following the period, when the lender is notified by the Secretary that—

(i) Exceptional circumstances exist, such as a local or national emergency or military mobilization; or

(ii) The geographical area in which the borrower or endorser resides has been designated a disaster area by the president of the United States or Mexico, the Prime Minister of Canada, or by a Governor of a State.

(3) As soon as feasible, or by the date specified by the Secretary, the lender shall notify the borrower (or endorser, if applicable) that the lender has granted a forbearance and the date that payments should resume. The lender's notification shall state that the borrower or endorser—

(i) May decline the forbearance and continue to be obligated to make scheduled payments; or

(ii) Consents to making payments in accordance with the lender's notification if the forbearance is not declined.

(4) For purposes of paragraph (i)(2)(i) of this section, the term “military mobilization” shall mean a situation in which the Department of Defense orders members of the National Guard or Reserves to active duty under sections 688, 12301(a), 12301(g), 12302, 12304, and 12306 of title 10, United States Code. This term also includes the assignment of other members of the Armed Forces to duty stations at locations other than the locations at which they were normally assigned, only if the military mobilization involved the activation of the National Guard or Reserves.

(5) The lender shall grant a mandatory administrative forbearance to a borrower (or endorser, if applicable) during a period when the borrower (or endorser, if applicable) is making payments for a period of—

(i) Up to 3 years of payments in cases where the effect of a variable interest rate on a standard or graduated repayment schedule would result in a loan not being repaid within the maximum repayment term; or

(ii) Up to 5 years of payments in cases where the effect of decreased installment amounts paid under an income-sensitive repayment schedule would result in the loan not being repaid within the maximum repayment term.

(6) The lender shall grant a mandatory administrative forbearance to a borrower for a period not to exceed 60 days after the lender receives reliable information indicating that the borrower (or student in the case of a PLUS loan) has died, until the lender receives documentation of death pursuant to §682.402(b)(3).

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1080, 1082)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992]

Editorial Note:   ForFederal Registercitations affecting §682.211, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and on GPO Access.

§ 682.212   Prohibited transactions.

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55664, Oct. 28, 2009.

(a) No points, premiums, payments, or additional interest of any kind may be paid or otherwise extended to any eligible lender or other party in order to—

(1) Secure funds for making loans; or

(2) Induce a lender to make loans to either the students or the parents of students of a particular school or particular category of students or their parents.

(b) The following are examples of transactions that, if entered into for the purposes described in paragraph (a) of this section, are prohibited:

(1) Cash payments by or on behalf of a school made to a lender or other party.

(2) The maintaining of a compensating balance by or on behalf of a school with a lender.

(3) Payments by or on behalf of a school to a lender of servicing costs on loans that the school does not own.

(4) Payments by or on behalf of a school to a lender of unreasonably high servicing costs on loans that the school does own.

(5) Purchase by or on behalf of a school of stock of the lender.

(6) Payments ostensibly made for other purposes.

(c) Except when purchased by an agency of any State functioning as a secondary market or in any other circumstances approved by the Secretary, notes, or any interest in notes, may not be sold or otherwise transferred at discount if the underlying loans were made—

(1) By a school; or

(2) To students or parents of students attending a school by a lender having common ownership with that school.

(d) Except to secure a loan from an agency of a State functioning as a secondary market or in other circumstances approved by the Secretary, a school or lender (with respect to a loan made to a student, or a parent of a student, attending a school having common ownership with that lender), may not use a loan made under the FFEL programs as collateral for any loan bearing aggregate interest and other charges in excess of the sum of the interest rate applicable to the loan plus the rate of the most recently prescribed special allowance under §682.302.

(e) The prohibitions described in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this section apply to any school, lender, or other party that would participate in a proscribed transaction.

(f) This section does not preclude a buyer of loans made by a school from obtaining from the loan seller a warranty that—

(1) Covers future reductions by the Secretary or a guaranty agency in computing the amount of loss payable on default claims filed on the loans, if the reductions are attributable to an act, or failure to act, on the part of the seller or previous holder; and

(2) Does not cover matters for which a purchaser is charged with responsibility under this part, such as due diligence in collecting loans.

(g) Section 490(c) of the Act provides that any person who knowingly and willfully makes an unlawful payment to an eligible lender as an inducement to make, or to acquire by assignment, a FFEL loan shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not more than $10,000 or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

(h)(1) A school may, at its option, make available a list of recommended or suggested lenders, in print or any other medium or form, for use by the school's students or their parents, provided such list—

(i) Is not used to deny or otherwise impede a borrower's choice of lender;

(ii) Does not contain fewer than three lenders that are not affiliated with each other and that will make loans to borrowers or students attending the school; and

(iii) Does not include lenders that have offered, or have offered in response to a solicitation by the school, financial or other benefits to the school in exchange for inclusion on the list or any promise that a certain number of loan applications will be sent to the lender by the school or its students.

(2) A school that provides or makes available a list of recommended or suggested lenders must—

(i) Disclose to prospective borrowers, as part of the list, the method and criteria used by the school in selecting any lender that it recommends or suggests;

(ii) Provide comparative information to prospective borrowers about interest rates and other benefits offered by the lenders;

(iii) Include a prominent statement in any information related to its list of lenders, advising prospective borrowers that they are not required to use one of the school's recommended or suggested lenders;

(iv) For first-time borrowers, not assign, through award packaging or other methods, a borrower's loan to a particular lender;

(v) Not cause unnecessary certification delays for borrowers who use a lender that has not been recommended or suggested by the school; and

(vi) Update any list of recommended or suggested lenders and any information accompanying such a list no less often than annually.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (h) of this section, a lender is affiliated with another lender if—

(i) The lenders are under the ownership or control of the same entity or individuals;

(ii) The lenders are wholly or partly owned subsidiaries of the same parent company; or

(iii) The directors, trustees, or general partners (or individuals exercising similar functions) of one of the lenders constitute a majority of the persons holding similar positions with the other lender.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, 1097)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 72 FR 62002, Nov. 1, 2007]

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For purposes of the calculations required by this part, a lender may not use the Rule of 78s to calculate the outstanding principal balance of a loan, except for a loan made to a borrower who entered repayment before June 26, 1987 and who was informed in the promissory note that interest on the loan would be calculated using the Rule of 78s. For those loans, the Rule of 78s must be used for the life of the loan.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 68 FR 75429, Dec. 31, 2003]

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In making a Stafford loan on which interest benefits are to be paid, a lender shall comply with the equal credit opportunity requirements of Regulation B (12 CFR part 202). With regard to Regulation B, the Secretary considers the Stafford loan program to be a credit-assistance program authorized by Federal law for the benefit of an economically disadvantaged class of persons within the meaning of 12 CFR 202.8(a)(1). Therefore, under 12 CFR 202.8(d), the lender may request a loan applicant to disclose his or her marital status, income from alimony, child support, and separate maintenance income, and spouse's financial resources.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1071–1087–2)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9119, Feb. 19, 1993; 64 FR 58965, Nov. 1, 1999]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55995, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) Definitions. As used in this section—

(1) Adjusted gross income (AGI) means the borrower's adjusted gross income as reported to the Internal Revenue Service. For a married borrower filing jointly, AGI includes both the borrower's and spouse's income. For a married borrower filing separately, AGI includes only the borrower's income.

(2) Eligible loan means any outstanding loan made to a borrower under the FFEL and Direct Loan programs except for a defaulted loan, a FFEL or Direct PLUS Loan made to a parent borrower, or a FFEL or Direct Consolidation Loan that repaid a FFEL or Direct PLUS Loan made to a parent borrower.

(3) Family size means the number that is determined by counting the borrower, the borrower's spouse, and the borrower's children, including unborn children who will be born during the year the borrower certifies family size, if the children receive more than half their support from the borrower. A borrower's family size includes other individuals if, at the time the borrower certifies family size, the other individuals—

(i) Live with the borrower; and

(ii) Receive more than half their support from the borrower and will continue to receive this support from the borrower for the year the borrower certifies family size. Support includes money, gifts, loans, housing, food, clothes, car, medical and dental care, and payment of college costs.

(4) Partial financial hardship means a circumstance in which the annual amount due on all of a borrower's eligible loans, as calculated under a standard repayment plan based on a 10-year repayment period, exceeds 15 percent of the difference between the borrower's AGI and 150 percent of the poverty guideline for the borrower's family size.

(5) Poverty guideline refers to the income categorized by State and family size in the poverty guidelines published annually by the United States Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 9902(2). If a borrower is not a resident of a State identified in the poverty guidelines, the poverty guideline to be used for the borrower is the poverty guideline (for the relevant family size) used for the 48 contiguous States.

(b) Repayment plan. (1) A borrower may elect the income-based repayment plan only if the borrower has a partial financial hardship. Except as provided under paragraph (b)(1)(i), (b)(1)(ii), and (b)(1)(iii) of this section, the borrower's aggregate monthly loan payments are limited to no more than 15 percent of the amount by which the borrower's AGI exceeds 150 percent of the poverty line income applicable to the borrower's family size, divided by 12. The loan holder adjusts the calculated monthly payment if—

(i) The total amount of the borrower's eligible loans includes loans not held by the loan holder, in which case the loan holder determines the borrower's adjusted monthly payment by multiplying the calculated payment by the percentage of the total outstanding principal amount of eligible loans that are held by the loan holder;

(ii) The calculated amount under paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(1)(i) of this section is less than $5.00, in which case the borrower's monthly payment is $0.00; or

(iii) The calculated amount under paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(1)(i) of this section is equal to or greater than $5.00 but less than $10.00, in which case the borrower's monthly payment is $10.00.

(2) A borrower with eligible loans held by two or more loan holders must request income-based repayment from each loan holder if the borrower wants to repay all of his or her eligible loans under an income-based repayment plan. Each loan holder must apply the payment calculation rules in paragraphs (b)(1)(ii) and (iii) of this section to loans they hold.

(3) If a borrower elects an income-based repayment plan, the loan holder must, unless the borrower requests otherwise, require that all eligible loans owed by the borrower to that holder be repaid under the income-based repayment plan.

(4) If the borrower's monthly payment amount is not sufficient to pay the accrued interest on the borrower's subsidized Stafford Loans or the subsidized portion of the borrower's Federal Consolidation loan, the Secretary pays to the holder the remaining accrued interest for a period not to exceed three consecutive years from the established repayment period start date on each loan repaid under the income-based repayment plan. On a Consolidation Loan that repays loans on which the Secretary has paid accrued interest under this section, the three-year period includes the period for which the Secretary paid accrued interest on the underlying loans. The three-year period does not include any period during which the borrower receives an economic hardship deferment.

(5) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(4) of this section, accrued interest is capitalized at the time the borrower chooses to leave the income-based repayment plan or no longer has a partial financial hardship.

(6) If the borrower's monthly payment amount is not sufficient to pay any principal due, the payment of that principal is postponed until the borrower chooses to leave the income-based repayment plan or no longer has a partial financial hardship.

(7) The special allowance payment to a lender during the period in which the borrower has a partial financial hardship under an income-based repayment plan is calculated on the principal balance of the loan and any accrued interest unpaid by the borrower.

(8) The repayment period for a borrower under an income-based repayment plan may be greater than 10 years.

(c) Payment application and prepayment. (1) The loan holder shall apply any payment made under an income-based repayment plan in the following order:

(i) Accrued interest.

(ii) Collection costs.

(iii) Late charges.

(iv) Loan principal.

(2) The borrower may prepay the whole or any part of a loan at any time without penalty.

(3) If the prepayment amount equals or exceeds a monthly payment amount of $10.00 or more under the repayment schedule established for the loan, the loan holder shall apply the prepayment consistent with the requirements of §682.209(b)(2)(ii).

(4) If the prepayment amount exceeds the monthly payment amount of $0.00 under the repayment schedule established for the loan, the loan holder shall apply the prepayment consistent with the requirements of paragraph (c)(1) of this section.

(d) Changes in the payment amount. (1) If a borrower no longer has a partial financial hardship, the borrower may continue to make payments under the income-based repayment plan but the loan holder must recalculate the borrower's monthly payment. The loan holder also recalculates the monthly payment for a borrower who chooses to stop making income-based payments. In either case, as a result of the recalculation—

(i) The maximum monthly amount that the loan holder may require the borrower to repay is the amount the borrower would have paid under the FFEL standard repayment plan based on a 10-year repayment period on the borrower's eligible loans that were outstanding at the time the borrower began repayment on the loans with that holder under the income-based repayment plan; and

(ii) The borrower's repayment period based on the recalculated payment amount may exceed 10 years.

(2) If a borrower no longer wishes to pay under the income-based repayment plan, the borrower must pay under the FFEL standard repayment plan and the loan holder recalculates the borrower's monthly payment based on—

(i) The time remaining under the maximum ten-year repayment period for the amount of the borrower's loans that were outstanding at the time the borrower discontinued paying under the income-based repayment plan; or

(ii) For a Consolidation Loan, the applicable repayment period remaining specified in §682.209(h)(2) for the total amount of that loan and the balance of other student loans that was outstanding at the time the borrower discontinued paying under the income-based repayment plan.

(e) Eligibility documentation and verification. (1) The loan holder determines whether a borrower has a partial financial hardship to qualify for the income-based repayment plan for the year the borrower elects the plan and for each subsequent year that the borrower remains on the plan. To make this determination, the loan holder requires the borrower to—

(i)(A) Provide written consent to the disclosure of AGI and other tax return information by the Internal Revenue Service to the loan holder. The borrower provides consent by signing a consent form and returning it to the loan holder;

(B) If the borrower's AGI is not available, or the loan holder believes that the borrower's reported AGI does not reasonably reflect the borrower's current income, the loan holder may use other documentation provided by the borrower to verify income; and

(ii) Annually certify the borrower's family size. If the borrower fails to certify family size, the loan holder must assume a family size of one for that year.

(2) The loan holder designates the repayment option described in paragraph (d)(1) of this section for any borrower who selects the income-based repayment plan but—

(i) Fails to renew the required written consent for income verification; or

(ii) Withdraws consent and does not select another repayment plan.

(f) Loan forgiveness. (1) To qualify for loan forgiveness after 25 years, the borrower must have participated in the income-based repayment plan and satisfied at least one of the following conditions during that period—

(i) Made reduced monthly payments under a partial financial hardship as provided under paragraph (b)(1) of this section. Monthly payments of $0.00 qualify as reduced monthly payments as provided in paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section;

(ii) Made reduced monthly payments after the borrower no longer had a partial financial hardship or stopped making income-based payments as provided in paragraph (d)(1) of this section;

(iii) Made monthly payments under any repayment plan, that were not less than the amount required under the FFEL standard repayment plan described in §682.209(a)(6)(vi) with a 10-year repayment period;

(iv) Made monthly payments under the FFEL standard repayment plan described in §682.209(a)(6)(vi) based on a 10-year repayment period for the amount of the borrower's loans that were outstanding at the time the borrower first selected the income-based repayment plan; or

(v) Received an economic hardship deferment on eligible FFEL loans.

(2) As provided under paragraph (f)(4) of this section, the Secretary repays any outstanding balance of principal and accrued interest on FFEL loans for which the borrower qualifies for forgiveness if the guaranty agency determines that—

(i) The borrower made monthly payments under one or more of the repayment plans described in paragraph (f)(1) of this section, including a monthly amount of $0.00 as provided in paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section; and

(ii)(A) The borrower made those monthly payments each year for a 25-year period; or

(B) Through a combination of monthly payments and economic hardship deferments, the borrower made the equivalent of 25 years of payments.

(3) For a borrower who qualifies for the income-based repayment plan, the beginning date for the 25-year period is—

(i) For a borrower who has a FFEL Consolidation Loan, the date the borrower made a payment or received an economic hardship deferment on that loan, before the date the borrower qualified for income-based repayment. The beginning date is the date the borrower made the payment or received the deferment, but no earlier than July 1, 2009;

(ii) For a borrower who has one or more other eligible FFEL loans, the date the borrower made a payment or received an economic hardship deferment on that loan. The beginning date is the date the borrower made that payment or received the deferment on that loan, but no earlier than July 1, 2009;

(iii) For a borrower who did not make a payment or receive an economic hardship deferment on the loan under paragraph (f)(3)(i) or (ii) of this section, the date the borrower made a payment under the income-based repayment plan on the loan; or

(iv) If the borrower consolidates his or her eligible loans, the date the borrower made a payment on the FFEL Consolidation Loan that met the conditions in (f)(1) after qualifying for the income-based repayment plan.

(4) If a borrower satisfies the loan forgiveness requirements, the Secretary repays the outstanding balance and accrued interest on the FFEL Consolidation Loan described in paragraph (f)(3)(i), (iii), or (iv) of this section or other eligible FFEL loans described in paragraph (f)(3)(ii) or (iv) of this section.

(5) A borrower repaying a defaulted loan is not considered to be repaying under a qualifying repayment plan for the purpose of loan forgiveness, and any payments made on a defaulted loan are not counted toward the 25-year forgiveness period.

(g) Loan forgiveness processing and payment. (1) No later than 60 days after the loan holder determines that a borrower qualifies for loan forgiveness under paragraph (f) of this section, the loan holder must request payment from the guaranty agency.

(2) If the loan holder requests payment from the guaranty agency later than the period specified in paragraph (g)(1) of this section, interest that accrues on the discharged amount after the expiration of the 60-day filing period is ineligible for reimbursement by the Secretary, and the holder must repay all interest and special allowance received on the discharged amount for periods after the expiration of the 60-day filing period. The holder cannot collect from the borrower any interest that is not paid by the Secretary under this paragraph.

(3)(i) Within 45 days of receiving the holder's request for payment, the guaranty agency must determine if the borrower meets the eligibility requirements for loan forgiveness under this section and must notify the holder of its determination.

(ii) If the guaranty agency approves the loan forgiveness, it must, within the same 45-day period required under paragraph (g)(3)(i) of this section, pay the holder the amount of the forgiveness.

(4) After being notified by the guaranty agency of its determination of the eligibility of the borrower for loan forgiveness, the holder must, within 30 days, inform the borrower of the determination and, if appropriate, that the borrower's repayment obligation on the loans for which income-based forgiveness was requested is satisfied. The lender must also provide the borrower with information on the required handling of the forgiveness amount.

(5)(i) The holder must apply the proceeds of the income-based repayment loan forgiveness amount to satisfy the outstanding balance on those loans for which income-based forgiveness was requested; or

(ii) If the forgiveness amount exceeds the outstanding balance on the eligible loans subject to forgiveness, the loan holder must refund the excess amount to the guaranty agency.

(6) If the guaranty agency does not pay the forgiveness claim, the lender will continue the borrower in repayment on the loan. The lender is deemed to have exercised forbearance of both principal and interest from the date the borrower's repayment obligation was suspended until a new payment due date is established. Unless the denial of the forgiveness claim was due to an error by the lender, the lender may capitalize any interest accrued and not paid during this period, in accordance with §682.202(b).

(7) The loan holder must promptly return to the sender any payment received on a loan after the guaranty agency pays the loan holder the amount of loan forgiveness.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1098e)

[73 FR 63249, Oct. 23, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55995, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. The teacher loan forgiveness program is intended to encourage individuals to enter and continue in the teaching profession. For new borrowers, the Secretary repays the amount specified in this paragraph on the borrower's subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loans, Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and in certain cases, Federal Consolidation Loans or Direct Consolidation Loans. The forgiveness program is only available to a borrower who has no outstanding loan balance under the FFEL Program or the Direct Loan Program on October 1, 1998 or who has no outstanding loan balance on the date he or she obtains a loan after October 1, 1998. The borrower must have been employed as a full-time teacher for five consecutive complete academic years, at least one of which was after the 1997–1998 academic year, in certain eligible elementary or secondary schools that serve low-income families. All borrowers eligible for teacher loan forgiveness may receive loan forgiveness of up to a combined total of $5,000 on the borrower's eligible FFEL and Direct Loan Program loans. If the borrower taught for five consecutive years as a highly qualified mathematics or science teacher in an eligible secondary school or as a special education teacher in an eligible elementary or secondary school, the borrower may receive loan forgiveness of up to a combined total of $17,500 on the borrower's eligible FFEL and Direct Loan Program loans. The loan for which the borrower is seeking forgiveness must have been made prior to the end of the borrower's fifth year of qualifying teaching service.

(b) Definitions. The following definitions apply to this section:

Academic year means one complete school year at the same school, or two complete and consecutive half years at different schools, or two complete and consecutive half years from different school years at either the same school or different schools. Half years exclude summer sessions and generally fall within a twelve-month period. For schools that have a year-round program of instruction, a minimum of nine months is considered an academic year.

Elementary school means a public or nonprofit private school that provides elementary education as determined by State law or the Secretary if that school is not in a State.

Full-time means the standard used by a State in defining full-time employment as a teacher. For a borrower teaching in more than one school, the determination of full-time is based on the combination of all qualifying employment.

Highly qualified means highly qualified as defined in section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended.

Secondary school means a public or nonprofit private school that provides secondary education as determined by State law or the Secretary if the school is not in a State.

Teacher means a person who provides direct classroom teaching or classroom-type teaching in a non-classroom setting, including Special Education teachers.

(c) Borrower eligibility. (1) A borrower may obtain loan forgiveness under this program if he or she has been employed as a full-time teacher for five consecutive complete academic years, at least one of which was after the 1997–1998 academic year, in an elementary or secondary school that—

(i) Is in a school district that qualifies for funds under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended;

(ii) Has been selected by the Secretary based on a determination that more than 30 percent of the school's total enrollment is made up of children who qualify for services provided under title I; and

(iii) Is listed in the Annual Directory of Designated Low-Income Schools for Teacher Cancellation Benefits. If this directory is not available before May 1 of any year, the previous year's directory may be used. The Secretary considers all elementary and secondary schools operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) or operated on Indian reservations by Indian tribal groups under contract with the BIA to qualify as schools serving low-income students.

(2) If the school at which the borrower is employed meets the requirements specified in paragraph (c)(1) of this section for at least one year of the borrower's five consecutive complete academic years of teaching and the school fails to meet those requirements in subsequent years, those subsequent years of teaching qualify for purposes of this section for that borrower.

(3) In the case of a borrower whose five consecutive complete years of qualifying teaching service began before October 30, 2004, the borrower—

(i) May receive up to $5,000 of loan forgiveness if the borrower—

(A) Demonstrated knowledge and teaching skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and other areas of the elementary school curriculum, as certified by the chief administrative officer of the eligible elementary school in which the borrower was employed; or

(B) Taught in a subject area that is relevant to the borrower's academic major as certified by the chief administrative officer of the eligible secondary school in which the borrower was employed.

(ii) May receive up to $17,500 of loan forgiveness if the borrower—

(A) Taught mathematics or science on a full-time basis in an eligible secondary school and was a highly qualified mathematics or science teacher; or

(B) Taught as a special education teacher on a full-time basis to children with disabilities in an eligible elementary or secondary school and was a highly qualified special education teacher whose special education training corresponded to the children's disabilities and who has demonstrated knowledge and teaching skills in the content areas of the elementary or secondary school curriculum.

(4) In the case of a borrower whose five consecutive years of qualifying teaching service began on or after October 30, 2004, the borrower—

(i) May receive up to $5,000 of loan forgiveness if the borrower taught full time in an eligible elementary or secondary school and was a highly qualified elementary or secondary school teacher.

(ii) May receive up to $17,500 of loan forgiveness if the borrower—

(A) Taught mathematics or science on a full-time basis in an eligible secondary school and was a highly qualified mathematics or science teacher; or

(B) Taught as a special education teacher on a full-time basis to children with disabilities in an eligible elementary or secondary school and was a highly qualified special education teacher whose special education training corresponded to the children's disabilities and who has demonstrated knowledge and teaching skills in the content areas of the elementary or secondary school curriculum.

(5) To qualify for loan forgiveness as a highly qualified teacher, the teacher must have been a highly qualified teacher for all five years of eligible teaching service.

(6) For teacher loan forgiveness applications received by the loan holder on or after July 1, 2006, a teacher in a private, non-profit elementary or secondary school who is exempt from State certification requirements (unless otherwise applicable under State law) may qualify for loan forgiveness under paragraphs (c)(3)(ii) or (c)(4) of this section if—

(i) The private school teacher is permitted to and does satisfy rigorous subject knowledge and skills tests by taking competency tests in applicable grade levels and subject areas;

(ii) The competency tests are recognized by 5 or more States for the purposes of fulfilling the highly qualified teacher requirements under section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965; and

(iii) The private school teacher achieves a score on each test that equals or exceeds the average passing score for those 5 states.

(7) The academic year may be counted as one of the borrower's five consecutive complete academic years if the borrower completes at least one-half of the academic year and the borrower's employer considers the borrower to have fulfilled his or her contract requirements for the academic year for the purposes of salary increases, tenure, and retirement if the borrower is unable to complete an academic year due to—

(i) A return to postsecondary education, on at least a half-time basis, that is directly related to the performance of the service described in this section;

(ii) A condition that is covered under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) (29 U.S.C. 2601, et seq. ); or

(iii) A call or order to active duty status for more than 30 days as a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces named in section 10101 of title 10, United States Code.

(8) A borrower's period of postsecondary education, qualifying FMLA condition, or military active duty as described in paragraph (c)(7) of this section, including the time necessary for the borrower to resume qualifying teaching no later than the beginning of the next regularly scheduled academic year, does not constitute a break in the required five consecutive years of qualifying teaching service.

(9) A borrower who taught in more than one qualifying school during an academic year and demonstrates that the combined teaching was the equivalent of full-time, as supported by the certification of one or more of the chief administrative officers of the schools involved, is considered to have completed one academic year of qualifying teaching.

(10) A borrower is not eligible for teacher loan forgiveness on a defaulted loan unless the borrower has made satisfactory repayment arrangements to re-establish title IV eligibility, as defined in §682.200.

(11) A borrower may not receive loan forgiveness for qualifying teaching service under this section if the borrower receives a benefit for the same teaching service under subtitle D of title I of the National and Community Service Act of 1990.

(d) Forgiveness amount. (1) A qualified borrower is eligible for forgiveness of up to $5,000, or up to $17,500 if the borrower meets the requirements of paragraphs (c)(3)(ii) or (c)(4)(ii) of this section. The forgiveness amount is deducted from the aggregate amount of the borrower's subsidized or unsubsidized Federal Stafford or Federal Consolidation Loan obligation that is outstanding after the borrower completes his or her fifth consecutive complete academic year of teaching as described in paragraph (c) of this section. Only the outstanding portion of the consolidation loan that was used to repay an eligible subsidized or unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan, an eligible Direct Subsidized Loan, or an eligible Direct Unsubsidized Loan qualifies for loan forgiveness under this section.

(2) A borrower may not receive more than a total of $5,000, or $17,500 if the borrower meets the requirements of paragraphs (c)(3)(ii) or (c)(4)(ii) of this section, in loan forgiveness for outstanding principal and accrued interest under both this section and under section 34 CFR 685.217.

(3) The holder does not refund payments that were received from or on behalf of a borrower who qualifies for loan forgiveness under this section.

(e) Authorized forbearance during qualifying teaching service and discharge processing. (1) A holder grants a forbearance—

(i) Under §682.211(h)(2)(ii)(C) and (h)(3)(iii), in annual increments for each of the years of qualifying teaching service, if the holder believes, at the time of the borrower's annual request, that the expected cancellation amount will satisfy the anticipated remaining outstanding balance on the loan at the time of the expected cancellation;

(ii) For a period not to exceed 60 days while the holder is awaiting a completed teacher loan forgiveness application from the borrower; and

(iii) For the period beginning on the date the holder receives a completed loan forgiveness application to the date the holder receives either a denial of the request or the loan discharge amount from the guaranty agency, in accordance with paragraph (f) of this section.

(2) At the conclusion of a forbearance authorized under paragraph (e)(1) of this section, the holder must resume collection activities and may capitalize any interest accrued and not paid during the forbearance period in accordance with §682.202(b).

(3) Nothing in paragraph (e) of this section restricts holders from offering other forbearance options to borrowers who do not meet the requirements of paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section.

(f) Application and processing. (1) A borrower, after completing the qualifying teaching service, requests loan forgiveness from the holder of the loan on a form approved by the Secretary.

(2)(i) The holder must file a request for payment with the guaranty agency on a teacher forgiveness discharge no later than 60 days after the receipt, from the borrower, of a completed teacher loan forgiveness application.

(ii) When filing a request for payment on a teacher forgiveness discharge, the holder must provide the guaranty agency with the completed loan forgiveness application submitted by the borrower and any required supporting documentation.

(iii) If the holder files a request for payment later than 60 days after the receipt of the completed teacher loan forgiveness application form, interest that accrued on the discharged amount after the expiration of the 60-day filing period is ineligible for reimbursement by the Secretary, and the holder must repay all interest and special allowance received on the discharged amount for periods after the expiration of the 60-day filing period. The holder cannot collect from the borrower any interest that is not paid by the Secretary under this paragraph.

(3)(i) Within 45 days of receiving the holder's request for payment, the guaranty agency must determine if the borrower meets the eligibility requirements for loan forgiveness under this section and must notify the holder of its determination of the borrower's eligibility for loan forgiveness under this section.

(ii) If the guaranty agency approves the discharge, it must, within the same 45-day period, pay the holder the amount of the discharge, up to $17,500, subject to paragraphs (c)(11), (d)(1), (d)(2) and (f)(2)(iii) of this section.

(4) After being notified by the guaranty agency of its determination of the eligibility of the borrower for the discharge, the holder must, within 30 days, inform the borrower of the determination. If the discharge is approved, the holder must also provide the borrower with information regarding any new repayment terms of remaining loan balances.

(5) Unless otherwise instructed by the borrower, the holder must apply the proceeds of the teacher forgiveness discharge first to any outstanding unsubsidized Federal Stafford loan balances, next to any outstanding subsidized Federal Stafford loan balances, then to any eligible outstanding Federal Consolidation loan balances.

(g) Claims for reimbursement from the Secretary on loans held by guaranty agencies. In the case of a teacher loan forgiveness discharge applied to a defaulted loan held by the guaranty agency, the Secretary pays the guaranty agency a percentage of the amount discharged that is equal to the complement of the reinsurance percentage paid on the loan. The payment of up to $5,000, or up to $17,500, may also include interest that accrues on the discharged amount during the period from the date on which the guaranty agency received payment from the Secretary on a default claim to the date on which the guaranty agency determines that the borrower is eligible for the teacher loan forgiveness discharge.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1078–10)

[65 FR 65627, Nov. 1, 2000, as amended by 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 71 FR 45702, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64398, Nov. 1, 2006; 73 FR 35495, June 23, 2008. Redesignated at 73 FR 63249, Oct. 23, 2008]

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(a) General. The Secretary pays a lender, on behalf of a borrower, a portion of the interest on a subsidized Stafford loan and on all or a portion of a qualifying Consolidation loan that meets the requirements under §682.301. This payment is known as interest benefits.

(b) Covered interest. (1) The Secretary pays a lender the interest that accrues on an eligible Stafford loan—

(i) During all periods prior to the beginning of the repayment period, except as provided in paragraphs (b)(2) and (c) of this section.

(ii) During any period when the borrower has an authorized deferment, and, if applicable, a post-deferment grace period;

(iii) During the repayment period for loans described in paragraph (d)(2) of this section; and

(iv) During a period that does not exceed three consecutive years from the established repayment period start date on each loan under the income-based repayment plan and that excludes any period during which the borrower receives an economic hardship deferment, if the borrower's monthly payment amount under the plan is not sufficient to pay the accrued interest on the borrower's loan or on the qualifying portion of the borrower's Consolidation Loan.

(2) The Secretary's obligation to pay interest benefits on an otherwise eligible loan terminates on the earliest of—

(i) The date the borrower's loan is repaid;

(ii) The date the disbursement check is returned uncashed to the lender, or the 120th day after the date of that disbursement, except as provided in paragraph (c)(4) of this section if—

(A) The check for the disbursement has not been cashed on or before that date; or

(B) The proceeds of the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check in accordance with §682.207(b)(1)(ii) (B) and (C) have not been released from the account maintained by the school on or before that date;

(iii) The date of default by the borrower;

(iv) The date the lender receives payment of a claim for loss on the loan;

(v) The date the borrower's loan is discharged in bankruptcy;

(vi) The date the lender determines that the borrower has died or has become totally and permanently disabled;

(vii) The date the loan ceases to be guaranteed or ceases to be eligible for reinsurance under this part, with respect to that portion of the loan that ceases to be guaranteed or reinsured, regardless of whether the lender has filed a claim for loss on the loan with the guarantor;

(viii) The date the lender determines that the borrower is eligible for loan discharge under §682.402(d), (e), or (l);

(ix) The date on which the lender determines the loan is legally unenforceable based on the receipt of an identity theft report under §682.208(b)(3); or

(x) The date the borrower's payment under the income-based repayment plan is sufficient to pay the accrued interest on the borrower's loan or the qualifying portion of the borrower's Consolidation Loan.

(3) Section 682.412 sets forth circumstances under which a lender may be required to repay interest benefits received on a loan guaranteed by a guaranty agency.

(c) Interest not covered. The Secretary does not pay—

(1) Interest for which the borrower is not otherwise liable;

(2) Interest paid on behalf of the borrower by a guaranty agency;

(3) Interest that accrues on the first disbursement of a loan for any period that is earlier than—

(i) In the case of a subsidized Stafford loan disbursed by a check, 10 days prior to the first day of the period of enrollment for which the loan is intended or, if the loan is disbursed after the first day of the period of enrollment, 3 days after the disbursement date on the check;

(ii) In the case of a loan disbursed by electronic funds transfer or master check, 3 days prior to the first day of the period of enrollment or, if the loan is disbursed after the first day of the period of enrollment, 3 days after disbursement; or

(iii) In the case of a loan disbursed through an escrow agent, 3 days prior to the first day of the period of enrollment or, if the loan is disbursed after the first day of the period of enrollment, 3 days after disbursement.

(4) In the case of a loan disbursed on or after October 1, 1992, interest on a loan if—

(i) The disbursement check is returned uncashed to the lender or the lender is notified that the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check will not be released from the restricted account maintained by the school; or

(ii) The check for the disbursement has not been negotiated before the 120th day after the date of disbursement or the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check has not been released from the restricted account maintained by the school before that date.

(d) Rate. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (d)(2) of this section, the Secretary pays the lender at the actual interest rate on a loan provided that the actual interest rate does not exceed the applicable interest rate.

(2) For a loan disbursed prior to December 15, 1968, or subject to a binding commitment made prior to that date, the Secretary pays an amount during the repayment period equivalent to 3 percent per year of the unpaid principal amount of the loan.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1078, 1082)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 25746, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33352, June 28, 1994; 59 FR 61428, Nov. 30, 1994; 64 FR 18978, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58959, Nov. 1, 1999; 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 71 FR 45703, Aug. 9, 2006; 72 FR 62002, Nov. 1, 2007; 73 FR 63252, Oct. 23, 2008]

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(a) General. (1) To qualify for benefits on a Stafford loan, a borrower must demonstrate financial need in accordance with Part F of the Act.

(2) The Secretary considers a member of a religious order, group, community, society, agency, or other organization who is pursuing a course of study at an institution of higher education to have no financial need if that organization—

(i) Has as its primary objective the promotion of ideals and beliefs regarding a Supreme Being;

(ii) Requires its members to forego monetary or other support substantially beyond the support it provides; and

(iii) (A) Directs the member to pursue the course of study; or

(B) Provides subsistence support to its members.

(3) A Consolidation loan borrower qualifies for interest benefits during authorized periods of deferment on the portion of the loan that does not represent HEAL loans if the loan application was received by the lender—

(i) On or after January 1, 1993 but prior to August 10, 1993;

(ii) On or after August 10, 1993, but prior to November 13, 1997 if the loan consolidates only subsidized Stafford loans; and

(iii) On or after November 13, 1997, for the portion of the loan that repaid subsidized FFEL loans and Direct Subsidized Loans.

(b) Application for interest benefits. To apply for interest benefits on a Stafford loan, the student, or the school at the direction of the student, must submit a statement to the lender pursuant to §682.603. The student must qualify for interest benefits if the eligible institution has determined and documented the student's amount of need for a loan based on the student's estimated cost of attendance, estimated financial assistance, and expected family contribution as determined under part F of the Act.

(c) Use of loan proceeds to replace expected family contribution. A borrower may use the amount of a PLUS, unsubsidized Stafford loan, State sponsored loan, or private program loan obtained for a period of enrollment to replace the expected family contribution for that period of enrollment.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1078, 1082, 1087–1)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9120, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 33352, June 28, 1994; 64 FR 18978, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58959, Nov. 1, 1999]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55996, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General . The Secretary pays a special allowance to a lender on an eligible FFEL loan. The special allowance is a percentage of the average unpaid principal balance of a loan, including capitalized interest computed in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (f) of this section. Special allowance is also paid on the unpaid accrued interest of a loan covered by §682.215(b)(7) computed in the same manner as in paragraphs (c) and (f), as applicable, except for this purpose the applicable interest rate shall be deemed to be zero.

(b) Eligible loans. (1) Except for non-subsidized Federal Stafford loans disbursed on or after October 1, 1981, for periods of enrollment beginning prior to October 1, 1992, or as provided in paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(3), or (e)(1) of this section, FFEL loans that otherwise meet program requirements are eligible for special allowance payments.

(2) For a loan made under the Federal SLS or Federal PLUS Program on or after July 1, 1987 and prior to July 1, 1994, and for any Federal PLUS loan made on or after July 1, 1998 or on or after January 1, 2000 for any period prior to April 1, 2006, or under §682.209(e) or (f), no special allowance is paid for any period for which the interest rate calculated prior to applying the interest rate maximum for that loan does not exceed—

(i) 12 percent in the case of a Federal SLS or PLUS loan made prior to October 1, 1992;

(ii) 11 percent in the case of a Federal SLS loan made on or after October 1, 1992;

(iii) 10 percent in the case of a Federal PLUS loan made on or after October 1, 1992; or

(iv) 9 percent in the case of a Federal PLUS loan made on or after July 1, 1998.

(3) In the case of a subsidized Stafford loan disbursed on or after October 1, 1992, the Secretary does not pay special allowance on a disbursement if—

(i) The disbursement check is returned uncashed to the lender or the lender is notified that the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check will not be released from the restricted account maintained by the school; or

(ii) The check for the disbursement has not been negotiated before the 120th day after the date of disbursement or the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check has not been released from the restricted account maintained by the school before that date.

(c) Rate. (1) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(2), (c)(3), or (e) of this section, the special allowance rate for an eligible loan during a 3-month period is calculated by—

(i) Determining the average of the bond equivalent rates of—

(A) The quotes of the 3-month commercial paper (financial) rates in effect for each of the days in such quarter as reported by the Federal Reserve in Publication H–15 (or its successor) for such 3-month period for a loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after January 1, 2000; or

(B) The 91-day Treasury bills auctioned during the 3-month period for a loan for which the first disbursement is made prior to January 1, 2000;

(ii) Subtracting the applicable interest rate for that loan;

(iii) Adding—

(A)( 1 ) 2.34 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after January 1, 2000;

( 2 ) 2.64 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal PLUS loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after January 1, 2000;

( 3 ) 2.64 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Consolidation Loan that was made based on an application received by the lender on or after January 1, 2000;

( 4 ) 1.74 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after January 1, 2000 during the borrower's in-school, grace, and authorized period of deferment;

( 5 ) 2.8 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1998 and prior to January 1, 2000;

( 6 ) 2.2 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1998 and prior to January 1, 2000, during the borrower's in-school, grace, and authorized period of deferment;

( 7 ) 2.5 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan for which the first disbursement is made on or after July 1, 1995 and prior to July 1, 1998 for interest that accrues during the borrower's in-school, grace, and authorized period of deferment;

(B) 3.1 percent to the resulting percentage for—

( 1 ) A Federal Stafford Loan made on or after October 1, 1992 and prior to July 1, 1998, except as provided in paragraph (c)(1)(iii)(A)( 7 ) of this section;

( 2 ) A Federal SLS Loan made on or after October 1, 1992;

( 3 ) A Federal PLUS Loan made on or after October 1, 1992 and prior to July 1, 1998;

( 4 ) A Federal PLUS Loan made on or after July 1, 1998 and prior to October 1, 1998, except that no special allowance shall be paid any quarter unless the rate determined under §682.202(a)(2)(v)(A) exceeds 9 percent;

( 5 ) A Federal PLUS loan made on or after October 1, 1998 and prior to January 1, 2000, except that no special allowance shall be paid during any quarter unless the rate determined under §682.202(a)(2)(v)(A) exceeds 9 percent;

( 6 ) A Federal Consolidation Loan for which the application was received by the lender prior to January 1, 2000, except that no special allowance shall be paid during any quarter on a loan for which the application was received on or after October 1, 1998 unless the average of the bond equivalent rate of the 91-day Treasury bills auctioned during that quarter, plus 3.1 percent, exceeds the rate determined under Section 682.202(a)(4)(iv);

(C) 3.25 percent to the resulting percentage, for a loan made on or after November 16, 1986, but prior to October 1, 1992;

(D) 3.25 percent to the resulting percentage, for a loan made on or after October 17, 1986 but prior to November 16, 1986, for a period of enrollment beginning on or after November 16, 1986;

(E) 3.5 percent to the resulting percentage, for a loan made prior to October 17, 1986, or a loan described in paragraph (c)(2) of this section; or

(F) 3.5 percent to the resulting percentage, for a loan made on or after October 17, 1986 but prior to November 16, 1986, for a period of enrollment beginning prior to November 16, 1986;

(iv) Rounding the result upward to the nearest one-eighth of 1 percent, for a loan made prior to October 1, 1981; and

(v) Dividing the resulting percentage by 4.

(2) The special allowance rate determined under paragraph (c)(1)(iii)(E) of this section applies to loans made or purchased from funds obtained from the issuance of an obligation of the—

(i) Maine Educational Loan Marketing Corporation to the Student Loan Marketing Association pursuant to an agreement entered into on January 31, 1984; or

(ii) South Carolina Student Loan Corporation to the South Carolina National Bank pursuant to an agreement entered into on July 30, 1986.

(3)(i) Subject to paragraphs (c)(3)(iii), (c)(3)(iv), and (e) of this section, the special allowance rate is that provided in paragraph (c)(3)(ii) of this section for a loan made or guaranteed on or after October 1, 1980 that was made or purchased with funds obtained by the holder from—

(A) The proceeds of tax-exempt obligations originally issued prior to October 1, 1993;

(B) Collections or payments by a guarantor on a loan that was made or purchased with funds obtained by the holder from obligations described in paragraph (c)(3)(i)(A) of this section;

(C) Interest benefits or special allowance payments on a loan that was made or purchased with funds obtained by the holder from obligations described in paragraph (c)(3)(i)(A) of this section;

(D) The sale of a loan that was made or purchased with funds obtained by the holders from obligations described in paragraph (c)(3)(i)(A) of this section; or

(E) The investment of the proceeds of obligations described in paragraph (c)(3)(i)(A) of this section.

(ii) The special allowance rate for a loan described in paragraph (c)(3)(i) is one-half of the rate calculated under paragraph (c)(1) of this section, except that in applying paragraph (c)(1)(iii), 3.5 percent is substituted for the percentages specified therein.

(iii) The special allowance rate applicable to loans described in paragraph (c)(3)(i) of this section that are made prior to October 1, 1992, may not be less than—

(A) 2.5 percent per year on eligible loans for which the applicable interest rate is 7 percent;

(B) 1.5 percent per year on eligible loans for which the applicable interest rate is 8 percent; or

(C) One-half of 1 percent per year on eligible loans for which the applicable rate is 9 percent.

(iv) The special allowance rate applicable to loans described in paragraph (c)(3)(i) of this section that are made on or after October 1, 1992, may not be less than 9.5 percent minus the applicable interest rate.

(4) Loans made or purchased with funds obtained by the holder from the issuance of tax-exempt obligations originally issued on or after October 1, 1993, and loans made with funds derived from default reimbursement collections, interest, or other income related to eligible loans made or purchased with those tax-exempt funds, do not qualify for the minimum special allowance rate specified in paragraph (c)(3)(iii) or (iv) of this section, and are not subject to the 50 percent limitation on the maximum rate otherwise applicable to loans made with tax-exempt funds.

(5) For purposes of paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4), a loan is purchased with funds described in those paragraphs when the loan is refinanced in consideration of those funds.

(d) Termination of special allowance payments on a loan. (1) The Secretary's obligation to pay special allowance on a loan terminates on the earliest of—

(i) The date a borrower's loan is repaid;

(ii) The date a borrower's loan check is returned uncashed to the lender;

(iii) The date a lender receives payment on a claim for loss on the loan;

(iv) The date a loan ceases to be guaranteed or ceases to be eligible for reinsurance under this part, with respect to that portion of the loan that ceases to be guaranteed or reinsured, regardless of whether the lender has filed a claim for loss on the loan with the guarantor;

(v) The 60th day after the borrower's default on the loan, unless the lender files a claim for loss on the loan with the guarantor together with all required documentation, on or before the 60th day;

(vi) The 120th day after the date of disbursement, if—

(A) The loan check has not been cashed on or before that date; or

(B) the loan proceeds disbursed by electronic funds transfer or master check in accordance with §682.207(b)(1)(ii) (B) and (C) have not been released from the restricted account maintained by the school on or before that date;

(vii) The 30th day after the date the lender received a returned claim from the guaranty agency on a loan submitted by the deadline specified in (d)(1)(v) of this section for loss on the loan to the lender due solely to inadequate documentation unless the lender files a claim for loss on the loan with the guarantor, together with all required documentation, prior to the 30th day; or

(viii) The date on which the lender determines the loan is legally unenforceable based on the receipt of an identity theft report under §682.208(b)(3).

(2) In the case of a loan disbursed on or after October 1, 1992, the Secretary does not pay special allowance on a loan if—

(i) The disbursement check is returned uncashed to the lender or the lender is notified that the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check will not be released from the account maintained by the school; or

(ii) The check for the disbursement has not been negotiated before the 120th day after the date of disbursement or the disbursement made by electronic funds transfer or master check has not been released from the account maintained by the school before that date.

(3) Section 682.413 sets forth the circumstances under which a lender may be required to repay the special allowance received on a loan guaranteed by a guaranty agency.

(e) Limits on special allowance payments on loans made or purchased with funds derived from tax-exempt obligations —(1) General. (i) The Secretary pays a special allowance on a loan described in paragraph (c)(3) or (c)(4) of this section that is held by or on behalf of an Authority only if the loan meets the requirements of §682.800.

(ii) The Secretary pays a special allowance at the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) or (c)(3) of this section on a loan described in paragraph (c)(3)(i) of this section that is held by or on behalf of an Authority in accordance with paragraphs (e)(2) through (e)(5) of this section, as applicable. References to “loan” or “loans” in paragraphs (e)(2) through (e)(5) include only loans described in paragraph (c)(3)(i).

(2) Effect of Refinancing on Special Allowance Payments. Except as provided in paragraphs (e)(3) through (e)(5) of this section—

(i) The Secretary pays a special allowance at the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(3) of this section to an Authority that holds a legal or equitable interest in the loan that is pledged or otherwise transferred in consideration of—

(A) Funds listed in paragraph (c)(3)(i) of this section;

(B) Proceeds of a tax-exempt refunding obligation that refinances a debt that—

( 1 ) Was first incurred pursuant to a tax-exempt obligation originally issued prior to October 1, 1993;

( 2 ) Has been financed continuously by tax-exempt obligation.

(ii) The Secretary pays a special allowance to an Authority that holds a legal or equitable interest in the loan that is pledged or otherwise transferred in consideration of funds other than those specified in paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this section either—

(A) At the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, if_

( 1 ) The prior tax-exempt obligation is retired; or

( 2 ) The prior tax-exempt obligation is defeased by means of obligations that the Authority certifies in writing to the Secretary bears a yield that does not exceed the yield restrictions of section 148 of the Internal Revenue Code and the regulations thereunder, or

(B) At the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(3) of this section.

(3) Loans affected by transactions or events after September 30, 2004. The Secretary pays a special allowance to an Authority at the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section if, after September 30, 2004—

(i) The loan is refinanced with funds other than those listed in paragraph (e)(2)(i) of this section;

(ii) The loan is sold or transferred to any other holder; or

(iii)(A) The loan is financed by a tax-exempt obligation included in the sources in paragraph (e)(2)(i), and

(B) That obligation matures, is refunded, is defeased, or is retired, whichever occurs earliest.

(4) Loans Affected by Transactions After February 7, 2006. Except as provided in paragraph (e)(5) or (f) of this section, the Secretary pays a special allowance at the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(1) of this section on any loan—

(i) That was made or purchased on or after February 8, 2006, or

(ii) That was not earning, on February 8, 2006, a quarterly rate of special allowance determined under paragraph (c)(3) of this section.

(5) Loans affected by transactions after December 30, 2010. (i) The Secretary pays a special allowance to a holder described in paragraph (e)(5)(ii) of this section at the rate prescribed in paragraph (c)(3) of this section only on a loan—

(A) That was made or purchased prior to December 31, 2010, or

(B) That was earning, before December 31, 2010, a quarterly rate of special allowance determined under paragraph (c)(3) of this section.

(ii) A holder for purposes of this paragraph is an entity that—

(A) On February 8, 2006 and during the quarter for which special allowance is determined under this paragraph—

( 1 ) Is a unit of State or local government or a private nonprofit entity, and

( 2 ) Is not owned or controlled by, or under common ownership or control by, a for-profit entity; and

(B) In the most recent quarterly special allowance payment prior to September 30, 2005, held, directly or through any subsidiary, affiliate, or trustee, a total unpaid balance of principal of $100,000,000 or less for which special allowance was determined and paid under paragraph (c)(3) of this section.

(f) Special allowance rates for loans made on or after October 1, 2007. With respect to any loan for which the first disbursement of principal is made on or after October 1, 2007, other than a loan described in paragraph (e)(5) of this section, the special allowance rate for an eligible loan made during a 3-month period is calculated according to the formulas described in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this section.

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(2) of this section, the special allowance formula shall be computed by—

(i) Determining the average of the bond equivalent rates of the quotes of the 3-month commercial paper (financial) rates in effect for each of the days in such quarter as reported by the Federal Reserve in Publication H–15 (or its successor) for such 3-month period;

(ii) Subtracting the applicable interest rate for that loan;

(iii) Adding—

(A) 1.79 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan;

(B) 1.19 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford Loan during the borrower's in-school period, grace period and authorized period of deferment;

(C) 1.79 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal PLUS loan; and

(D) 2.09 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Consolidation loan; and

(iv) Dividing the resulting percentage by 4.

(2) For loans held by an eligible not-for-profit holder as defined in paragraph (f)(3) of this section, the special allowance formula shall be computed by—

(i) Determining the average of the bond equivalent rates of the quotes of the 3-month commercial paper (financial) rates in effect for each of the days in such quarter as reported by the Federal Reserve in Publication H–15 (or its successor) for such 3-month period;

(ii) Subtracting the applicable interest rate for that loan;

(iii) Adding—

(A) 1.94 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford loan;

(B) 1.34 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Stafford Loan during the borrower's in-school period, grace period and authorized period of deferment;

(C) 1.94 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal PLUS loan; and

(D) 2.24 percent to the resulting percentage for a Federal Consolidation loan; and

(iv) Dividing the resulting percentage by 4.

(3) Eligible Not-for-Profit Holder. (i) For purposes of this section, the term “eligible not-for-profit holder” means an eligible lender under section 435(d) of the Act (except an eligible institution) that requests special allowance payments from the Secretary and that is—

(A) A State, or a political subdivision, authority, agency, or other instrumentality thereof, including such entities that are eligible to issue bonds described in 26 CFR 1.103–1, or section 144(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

(B) An entity described in section 150(d)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that has not made the election described in section 150(d)(3) of that Code;

(C) An entity described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; or

(D) A trustee acting as an eligible lender on behalf of an entity that is not an eligible institution and that is a State or non-profit entity or a special purpose entity for a State or non-profit entity.

(ii) For purposes of paragraph (f)(3) of this section—

(A) The term “State or non-profit entity” means an entity described in paragraph (f)(3)(i)(A), (f)(3)(i)(B), or (f)(3)(i)(C) of this section, regardless of whether such entity is an eligible lender under section 435(d) of that Act.

(B) The term “special purpose entity” means an entity established for the limited purpose of financing the acquisition of loans from or at the direction of a State or non-profit entity, or servicing and collecting such loans, and that is—

( 1 ) An entity established by such State or non-profit entity, or

( 2 ) An entity established by an entity described in paragraph (f)(3)(ii)(B)(1) of this section.

(C) A special purpose entity is a “related special purpose entity” with respect to a State or non-profit entity if it holds any interest in loans acquired from or at the direction of that State or non-profit entity or from a special purpose entity established by that State or non-profit entity.

(iii) An entity that otherwise qualifies under paragraph (f)(3)(i) of this section shall not be considered an eligible not-for-profit holder unless such entity—

(A) Was a State or non-profit entity and an eligible lender under section 435(d) of the Act, other than a school lender, and on or before September 27, 2007 had made or acquired a FFEL loan, unless the State waives this requirement under paragraph (f)(3)(iv) of this section; or

(B) Is acting as an eligible lender trustee on behalf of a State or non-profit entity that was the sole beneficial owner of a loan eligible for a special allowance payment on September 27, 2007.

(iv) Subject to the provisions of section 435(d)(1)(D) of the Act, a State may waive the requirement of paragraph (f)(3)(iii)(A) of this section to identify a new eligible not-for-profit holder pursuant to a written application filed in accordance with paragraph (f)(3)(x) of this section, for the purposes of carrying out a public purpose of the State, except that a State may not designate a trustee for this purpose.

(v) A State or non-profit entity, and a trustee to the extent acting on behalf of such an entity or its related special purpose entity, shall not be an eligible not-for-profit holder if the State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity is owned or controlled, in whole or in part, by a for-profit entity. For purposes of this paragraph, a for-profit entity has ownership and control of a State or non-profit entity, or its related special purpose entity, if—

(A) The for-profit entity is a member or shareholder of a State or non-profit entity or related special purpose entity that is a membership or stock corporation, and the for-profit entity has sufficient power to control the State or non-profit entity or its special purpose entity;

(B) The for-profit-entity employs or appoints individuals that together constitute a majority of the State, non-profit, or special purpose entity's board of trustees or directors, or a majority of such board's audit committee, executive committee, or compensation committee; or

(C) For a State, non-profit, or special purpose entity that has no board of trustees or directors and associated committees of such, the for-profit entity is authorized by law, agreement, or otherwise to approve decisions by the entity regarding its audits, investments, hiring, retention, or compensation of officials, unless the Secretary determines that the particular authority to approve such decisions is not likely to affect the integrity of those decisions.

(vi) For purposes of paragraph (f)(3) of this section—

(A) A for-profit entity has sufficient power to control a State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity, if it possesses directly, or represents, either alone or together with other persons, under a voting trust, power of attorney, proxy, or similar agreement, one or more persons who hold, individually or in combination with the other person represented or the persons representing them, a sufficient voting percentage of the membership interests or voting securities to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of the State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity.

(B) An individual is deemed to be employed or appointed by a for-profit entity if the for-profit entity employs a family member, as defined in §600.21(f), of that individual, unless the Secretary determines that the particular nature of the family member's employment is not likely to affect the integrity of decisions made by the board or committee member.

(C) “Beneficial owner” (including “beneficial ownership” and “owner of a beneficial interest”) means the entity that has those rights with respect to the loan or income from the loan that are the normal incidents of ownership, including the right to receive, possess, use, and sell or otherwise exercise control over the loan and the income from the loan, subject to any rights granted and limitations imposed in connection with or related to the granting of a security interest described in paragraph (f)(3)(ix) of this section, and subject to any limitations on such rights under the Act as a result of such entity not qualifying as an eligible lender or holder under the Act.

(D) “Sole owner” means the entity that has all the rights described in paragraph (f)(3)(vi)(C) of this section, which may be subject to the rights and limitations described in paragraph (f)(3)(vi)(C), to the exclusion of any other entity, with respect both to a loan and the income from a loan.

(vii)(A) No State or non-profit entity, and no trustee to the extent acting on behalf of such a State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity, shall be an eligible not-for-profit holder with respect to any loan or income from any loan on which payment is claimed at the rate established under paragraph (f)(2) of this section, unless such State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity is the sole owner of the beneficial interest in such loan and the income from such loan.

(B) A State or non-profit entity that had sole ownership of the beneficial interest in a loan and the income from such loan is considered to retain that sole ownership for purposes of paragraph (f)(3)(vii)(A) of this section if such entity transferred beneficial interest in the loan to its related special purpose entity and no party other than that State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity owns any beneficial interest or residual ownership interest in the loan or income from the loan.

(viii)(A) A trustee described in paragraph (f)(3)(i)(D) of this section shall not receive compensation as consideration for acting as an eligible lender on behalf of a State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity in excess of reasonable and customary fees paid for providing the particular service or services that the trustee undertakes to provide to such entity.

(B) Fees are reasonable and customary, for purposes of this paragraph (f)(3)(viii), if they do not exceed the amounts received by the trustee for similar services with regard to similar portfolios of loans of that State or non-profit entity or its related special purpose entity that are not eligible to receive special allowance at the rate established under paragraph (f)(2) of this section, or if they do not exceed an amount as determined by such other method requested by the State or non-profit entity that the Secretary considers reliable.

(C) Loans owned by the State or non-profit entity or a related special purpose entity for which the trustee receives fees in excess of the amount permitted by paragraph (f)(3)(viii) of this section cease to qualify for a special allowance payment at the rate prescribed under paragraph (f)(2) of this section.

(ix) For purposes of paragraph (f)(3) of this section, if a State or non-profit entity, its related special purpose entity, or a trustee acting on behalf of any of these entities, grants a security interest in, or otherwise pledges as collateral, a loan, or the income from a loan, to secure a debt obligation for which such State or non-profit entity, or its related special purpose entity, is the issuer of that debt obligation, none of these entities shall, by such action—

(A) Be deemed to be owned or controlled, in whole or in part, by a for-profit entity; or

(B) Lose its status as the sole owner of a beneficial interest in a loan and the income from a loan.

(x) Not-for-Profit Holder Eligibility Determination. A State or non-profit entity that seeks to qualify as an eligible not-for-profit holder, either in its own right or through a trust agreement with an eligible lender trustee, must provide to the Secretary—

(A) A certification on the State or non-profit entity's letterhead signed by the State or non-profit entity's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) which—

( 1 ) States the basis upon which the entity qualifies as a State or non-profit entity;

( 2 ) Includes documentation establishing its status as a State or non-profit entity;

( 3 ) Includes the name and lender identification number(s) of the entities for which designation is being certified;

( 4 ) Includes the name of any related special purpose entities that hold any interest in any loan on which special allowance is claimed under paragraph (f)(2)of this section, describes the role of such entity with respect to the loans, and provides with respect to that entity the certifications and documentation described in paragraph (f)(3)(x)(A) and (B) of this section; and

( 5 ) For an entity establishing status under section 150(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, includes copies of the requests of the State or political subdivision or subdivisions thereof or requirements described in section 150(d)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code and the CEO's additional certification that the entity has not elected under section 150(d)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to cease its status as a qualified scholarship funding corporation.

(B) A separately submitted certification or opinion by the State or non-profit entity's external legal counsel or the office of the attorney general of the State, with supporting documentation that shows that the State or non-profit entity—

( 1 ) Is constituted a State entity by operation of specific State law;

( 2 ) Has been designated by the State or one or more political subdivisions of the State to serve as a qualified scholarship funding corporation under section 150(d) of the Internal Revenue Code, has not made the election described under section 150(d)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and is incorporated under State law as a not-for-profit organization;

( 3 ) Is incorporated under State law as a not-for-profit organization or is an entity described in section 503(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; or

( 4 ) Has in effect a relationship with an eligible lender under which the lender is acting as trustee on behalf of the State or non-profit entity.

(xi) Annual Certification by Eligible Not-for-Profit Holder. A State or non-profit entity that seeks to retain its eligibility as an eligible not-for-profit holder, either in its own right or through a trust agreement with an eligible lender trustee, must annually provide to the Secretary—

(A) A certification on the State or non-profit entity's letterhead signed by the State or non-profit entity's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) which—

( 1 ) Includes the name and lender identification number(s) of the entities for which designation is being recertified;

( 2 ) States that the State or non-profit entity has not altered its status as a State or non-profit entity since its prior certification to the Secretary, or, if it has altered its status, describes any such alterations; and

( 3 ) States that the State or non-profit entity continues to satisfy the requirements of an eligible not-for-profit holder, either in its own right or through a trust agreement with an eligible lender trustee; and

(B) A copy of its IRS Form 990, if applicable, and that of any related special purpose entity that holds an interest in loans on which it seeks to claim special allowance at the rate provided under paragraph (f)(2) of this section, at the same time these returns are filed with the Internal Revenue Service.

(xii) Not-for-Profit Holder Change of Status. Within 10 business days of becoming aware of the occurrence of a change that may result in a State or non-profit entity that has been designated an eligible not-for-profit holder, either directly or through an eligible lender trustee, losing that eligibility, the State or non-profit entity must—

(A) Submit details of the change to the Secretary; and

(B) Cease billing for special allowance at the rate established under paragraph (f)(2) of this section for the period from the date of the change that may result in it no longer being eligible for the rate established under paragraph (f)(2) of this section to the date of the Secretary's determination that such entity has not lost its eligibility as a result of such change; provided, however, that in the quarter following the Secretary's determination that such eligible not-for-profit holder has not lost its eligibility, the eligible not-for-profit holder may submit a billing for special allowance during the period from the date of the change to the date of the Secretary's determination equal to the difference between special allowance at the rate established under paragraph (f)(2) of this section and the amount it actually billed at the rate established under paragraph (f)(1) of this section.

(xiii) In the case of a loan for which the special allowance payment is calculated under paragraph (f)(2) of this section and that is sold by the eligible not-for-profit holder holding the loan to an entity that is not an eligible not-for-profit holder, the special allowance payment for such loan shall, beginning on the date of the sale, no longer be calculated under paragraph (f)(2) and shall be calculated under paragraph (f)(1) of this section instead.

(4) In the case of a loan for which the special allowance payment is calculated under paragraph (f)(2) of this section and that is sold by the eligible not-for-profit holder holding the loan to an entity that is not an eligible not-for-profit holder, the special allowance payment for such loan shall, beginning on the date of the sale, no longer be calculated under paragraph (f)(2) and shall be calculated under paragraph (f)(1) of this section instead.

(g) For purposes of this section—

(1) A tax-exempt obligation is an obligation the income of which is exempt from taxation under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C.);

(2) The date on which an obligation is considered to be “originally issued” is determined under §682.302(f)(2)(i) or (ii), as applicable.

(i) An obligation issued to obtain funds to make loans, or to purchase a legal or equitable interest in loans, including by pledge as collateral for that obligation, is considered to be originally issued on the date issued.

(ii) A tax-exempt obligation that refunds, or is one of a series of tax-exempt refundings with respect to a tax-exempt obligation described in §682.302(f)(2)(i), is considered to be originally issued on the date on which the obligation described in §682.302(f)(2)(i) was issued.

(3) A loan is refinanced when an Authority that has pledged the loan as collateral for an obligation of that Authority retains an interest in the loan, but causes the loan to be released from the lien of that obligation and pledged as collateral for a different obligation of that Authority.

(4) References to an Authority include a successor entity that may not qualify as an Authority under §682.200(b).

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 25746, May 17, 1994; 59 FR 33353, June 28, 1994; 59 FR 61428, Nov. 30, 1994; 64 FR 18978, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58626, Oct. 29, 1999; 66 FR 34763, June 29, 2001; 68 FR 75429, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 45703, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64398, Nov. 1, 2006; 72 FR 62002, Nov. 1, 2007; 73 FR 63252, Oct. 23, 2008]

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(a) General. The Secretary pays a lender interest benefits and special allowance on eligible loans on a quarterly basis. These calendar quarters end on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31 of each year. A lender may use either the average daily balance method or the actual accrual method to determine the amount of interest benefits payable on a lender's loans. A lender shall use the average daily balance method to determine the balance on which the Secretary computes the amount of special allowance payable on its loans.

(b) Average daily balance method for interest benefits. (1) Under this method, the lender adds the unpaid principal balance outstanding on all loans qualifying for interest benefits at each actual interest rate for each day of the quarter, divides the sum by the number of days in the quarter, and rounds the result to the nearest whole dollar. The resulting figure is the average daily balance for qualified loans outstanding at each actual interest rate.

(2) The Secretary computes the interest benefits due on all qualified loans at each actual interest rate by multiplying the average daily balance thereof by the actual interest rate, multiplying this result by the number of days in the quarter, and then dividing this result by the actual number of days in the year.

(c) Actual accrual method for interest benefits. (1) Under this method, the lender computes the total unpaid principal balance outstanding on all qualified loans at each actual interest rate on each day of the quarter, multiplies this result by the actual interest rate, and divides this result by the actual number of days in the year, or, alternatively, 365.25 days. A lender who chooses to divide by 365.25 days must do so for four consecutive years.

(2) The interest benefits due for a quarter equal the sum of the daily interest benefits due, computed under paragraph (c)(1) of this section, for each day of the quarter.

(d) Average daily balance method for special allowance. (1) To compute the average daily balance outstanding for purposes of special allowance, the lender adds the unpaid principal balance outstanding on all qualified loans at each applicable interest rate for each day of the quarter, divides this sum by the number of days in the quarter, and rounds the result to the nearest whole dollar. The resulting figure is the average daily balance for the quarter for qualifying loans at each applicable interest rate.

(2) To compute the average daily balance of unpaid accrued interest for purposes of special allowance on loans covered by §682.215(b)(7), the lender adds the unpaid accrued interest on such loans for each eligible day of the quarter, divides this sum by the number of days in the quarter, and rounds the result to the nearest whole dollar. The resulting figure is the average daily balance for the quarter for qualifying loans at the applicable interest rate.

(3) The Secretary computes the special allowance payable to a lender based upon the average daily balance computed by the lender under paragraphs (d)(1) and (2) of this section.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1082, 1087–1)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 73 FR 63254, Oct. 23, 2008]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55996, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. (1) If a lender owes origination fees or loan fees under paragraph (a) of this section, it must submit quarterly reports to the Secretary on a form provided or prescribed by the Secretary, even if the lender is not owed, or does not wish to receive, interest benefits or special allowance from the Secretary.

(2) The lender shall report, on the quarterly report required by paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the amount of origination fees it was authorized to collect and the amount of those fees refunded to borrowers during the quarter covered by the report.

(3)(i)(A) The Secretary reduces the amount of interest benefits and special allowance payable to the lender by—

( 1 ) The amount of origination fees the lender was authorized to collect during the quarter under §682.202(c), whether or not the lender actually collected that amount; and

( 2 ) The amount of lender fees payable under paragraph (a)(3)(ii) of this section; and

( 3 ) The amount of excess interest, as calculated in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section.

(B) The Secretary increases the amount of interest benefits and special allowance payable to the lender by the amount of origination fees refunded to borrowers during the quarter under §682.202(c).

(ii)(A) For any FFEL loan made on or after October 1, 1993, a lender shall pay the Secretary a loan fee equal to 0.50% of the principal amount of the loan.

(B) For any FFEL loan made on or after October 1, 2007, a lender shall pay the Secretary a loan fee equal to 1.0 percent of the principal amount of the loan.

(iii) The Secretary collects from an originating lender the amount of origination fees the originating lender was authorized to collect from borrowers during the quarter whether or not the originating lender actually collected those fees. The Secretary also collects the fees the originating lender is required to pay under paragraph (a)(3)(ii) of this section. Generally, the Secretary collects the fees from the originating lender by offsetting the amount of interest benefits and special allowance payable to the originating lender in a quarter, and, if necessary, the amount of interest benefits and special allowance payable in subsequent quarters may be offset until the total amount of fees has been recovered.

(iv) If the full amount of the fees cannot be collected within two quarters by reducing interest and special allowance payable to the originating lender, the Secretary may collect the unpaid amount directly from the originating lender.

(v) If the full amount of the fees cannot be collected within two quarters from the originating lender in accordance with paragraphs (a)(3)(iii) and (iv) of this section and if the originating lender has transferred the loan to a subsequent holder, the Secretary may, following written notice, collect the unpaid amount from the holder by using the same steps described in paragraphs (a)(3)(iii) and (iv) of this section, with the term “holder” substituting for the term “originating lender”.

(4) If an originating lender sells or otherwise transfers a loan to a new holder, the originating lender remains liable to the Secretary for payment of the origination fees. The Secretary will not pay interest benefits or special allowance to the new holder or pay reinsurance to the guaranty agency until the origination fees are paid to the Secretary.

(b) Penalty interest. (1)(i) If the Secretary does not pay interest benefits or the special allowance within 30 days after the Secretary receives an accurate, timely, and complete request for payment from a lender, the Secretary pays the lender penalty interest.

(ii) The payment of interest benefits or special allowance is deemed to occur, for purposes of this paragraph, when the Secretary—

(A) Authorizes the Treasury Department to pay the lender;

(B) Credits the payment due the lender against a debt that the Secretary determines is owed the Secretary by the lender; or

(C) Authorizes the Treasury Department to pay the amount due by the lender to another Federal agency for credit against a debt that the Federal agency has determined the lender owes.

(2) Penalty interest is an amount that accrues daily on interest benefits and special allowance due to the lender. The penalty interest is computed by—

(i) Multiplying the daily interest rate applicable to loans on which payment for interest benefits was requested, by the amount of interest benefits due on those loans for each interest rate;

(ii) Multiplying the daily special allowance rate applicable to loans on which special allowance was requested by the amount of special allowance due on those loans for each interest rate and special allowance category;

(iii) Adding the results of paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section to determine the gross penalty interest to be paid for each day that penalty interest is due;

(iv) Dividing the results of paragraph (b)(2)(iii) of this section by the gross amount of interest benefits and special allowance due to obtain the average penalty interest rate;

(v) Multiplying the rate obtained in paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section by the total amount of reduction to gross interest benefits and special allowance due (e.g., origination fees or other debts owed to the Federal Government);

(vi) Subtracting the amount calculated in paragraph (b)(2)(v) of this section from the amount calculated under paragraph (b)(2)(iii) of this section to obtain the net amount of penalty interest due per day; and

(vii) Multiplying the amount calculated in paragraph (b)(2)(vi) of this section by the number of days calculated under paragraph (b)(3) of this section.

(3) The Secretary pays penalty interest for the period—

(i) Beginning on the later of—

(A) The 31st day after the final day of the quarter covered by the request for payment; or

(B) The 31st day after the Secretary's receipt of an accurate, timely, and complete request for payment from the lender; and

(ii) Ending on the day the Secretary pays the interest benefits and the special allowance at issue, in accordance with paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section.

(4) A request for interest benefits and special allowance is considered timely only if it is received by the Secretary within 90 days following the end of the quarter to which the request pertains.

(5) A request for interest benefits and special allowance is not considered accurate and complete if it—

(i) Requests payments to which the lender is not entitled under §§682.300 through 682.302;

(ii) Includes loans that the Secretary, in writing, has directed that the lender exclude from the request;

(iii) Does not contain all information required by the Secretary or contains conflicting information; or

(iv) Is not provided and certified on the form and in the manner prescribed by the Secretary.

(c) Independent audits. (1) A lender (other than a school lender) originating or holding more than $5 million in FFEL loans during its fiscal year, and a school lender under §682.601 that originates or holds any FFEL loans during its fiscal year, must submit an independent annual compliance audit for that year, conducted by a qualified independent organization or person. The Secretary may, following written notice, suspend the payment of interest benefits and special allowance to a lender that does not submit its audit within the time period prescribed in paragraph (c)(2) or this section.

(2) The audit required under paragraph (c)(1) of this section must—

(i) Examine the lender's compliance with the Act and applicable regulations;

(ii) Examine the lender's financial management of its FFEL program activities;

(iii) Be conducted in accordance with the standards for audits issued by the United States General Accounting Office's (GAO's) Government Auditing Standards. Procedures for audits are contained in an audit guide developed by and available from the Office of the Inspector General of the Department;

(iv) Be conducted at least annually and be submitted to the Secretary within six months of the end of the audit period. The initial audit must be of the lender's first fiscal year that begins after July 23, 1992, and must be submitted within six months of the end of the audit period. Each subsequent audit must cover the lender's activities for the period beginning no later than the end of the period covered by the preceding audit;

(v) With regard to a lender that is a governmental entity or a nonprofit organization, the audit required by this paragraph must be conducted in accordance with 31 U.S.C. 7502 and 34 CFR §§74.26 and 80.26, as applicable; and

(vi) With regard to a school that makes or originates loans, the audit requirements are in 34 CFR §682.601(a)(7).

(vii) The Secretary may determine that a lender has met the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section if the lender has been audited in accordance with 31 U.S.C. 7502 for other purposes, the lender submits the results of the audit to the Office of Inspector General, and the Secretary determines that the audit meets the requirements of this paragraph.

(d) Recovery of excess interest paid by the Secretary.

(1) For any loan for which the first disbursement of principal is made on or after April 1, 2006, the Secretary collects the amount of excess interest paid to a lender on a quarterly basis when the applicable interest rate on a loan for each quarter exceeds the special allowance support level in paragraph (d)(2) of this section for the loan. Excess interest is calculated and recovered each quarter by subtracting the special allowance support level from the applicable interest rate, multiplying the result by the average daily principal balance of the loan (not including unearned interest added to principal) during the quarter, and dividing by four.

(2) The term special allowance support level means a number expressed as a percentage equal to the sum of—

(i) The average of the bond equivalent rates of the quotes of the 3-month commercial paper (financial) rates in effect for each of the days in such quarter as reported by the Federal Reserve in Publication H–15 (or its successor) for such 3-month period; plus

(ii) 2.34 percent for a Federal Stafford loan in repayment;

(iii) 1.74 percent for a Federal Stafford loan during the in-school, grace, and deferment periods; or

(iv) 2.64 percent for a Federal PLUS or Consolidation Loan.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1077, 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, 1087–1)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 58 FR 9119, Feb. 19, 1993; 59 FR 61428, Nov. 30, 1994; 60 FR 31411, June 15, 1995; 64 FR 18978, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58627, Oct. 29, 1999; 71 FR 45705, Aug. 9, 2006; 71 FR 64398, Nov. 1, 2006; 72 FR 62003, Nov. 1, 2007]

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(a) The Secretary enters into agreements with a guaranty agency whose loan guarantee program meets the requirements of this subpart. The agreements enable the guaranty agency to participate in the FFEL programs and to receive the various payments and benefits related to that participation.

(b) There are four agreements:

(1) Basic program agreement. In order to participate in the FFEL programs, a guaranty agency must have a basic program agreement. Under this agreement—

(i) Borrowers whose Stafford and Consolidation loans that consolidate only subsidized Stafford loans are guaranteed by the agency may qualify for interest benefits that are paid to the lender on the borrower's behalf; and

(ii) Lenders under the guaranty agency program may receive special allowance payments from the Secretary and have death, disability, bankruptcy, closed school and false certification discharge claims paid by the Secretary through the guaranty agency.

(2) Federal advances for claim payments agreement. A guaranty agency must have an agreement for Federal advances for claim payments to receive and use Federal advances to pay default claims.

(3) Reinsurance agreement. A guaranty agency must have a reinsurance agreement to receive reimbursement from the Secretary for its losses on default claims.

(4) Loan Rehabilitation Agreement. A guaranty agency must have an agreement for rehabilitating a loan for which the Secretary has made a reinsurance payment under section 428(c)(1) of the Act.

(c) The Secretary's execution of an agreement does not indicate acceptance of any current or past standards or procedures used by the agency.

(d) All of the agreements are subject to subsequent changes in the Act, in other applicable Federal statutes, and in regulations that apply to the FFEL programs.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1072, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082, 1087, 1087–1)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992, as amended at 59 FR 33353, June 28, 1994; 64 FR 18978, Apr. 16, 1999; 64 FR 58627, Oct. 29, 1999]

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55996, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. In order to participate in the FFEL programs, a guaranty agency shall enter into a basic agreement with the Secretary.

(b) Terms of agreement. In the basic agreement, the guaranty agency shall agree to ensure that its loan guarantee program meets the following requirements at all times:

(1) Aggregate loan limits. The aggregate guaranteed unpaid principal amount for all Stafford and SLS, loans made to a borrower may not exceed the amounts set forth in §682.204 (b), (e), and (g).

(2) Annual loan limits. (i) The annual loan maximum amount for a borrower that may be guaranteed for an academic year may not exceed the amounts set forth in §682.204 (a), (c), (d), (f), and (h).

(ii) A guaranty agency may make the loan amounts authorized under paragraph (b)(2)(i) of this section applicable for either—

(A) A period of not less than that attributable to the academic year, as defined in 34 CFR 668.3; or

(B) A period attributable to the academic year that is not less than the period specified in paragraph (b)(2)(ii)(A) of this section, in which the student earns the amount of credit in the student's program of study required by the student's school as the amount necessary for the student to advance in academic standing as normally measured on an academic year basis (for example, from freshman to sophomore or, in the case of schools using clock hours, completion of at least 900 clock hours).

(iii) The amount of a loan guaranteed may not exceed the amount set forth in §682.204(k).

(3) Duration of borrower eligibility. (i) A student borrower under the Stafford Loan Program or the PLUS Loan Program and a parent borrower under the PLUS Program are eligible to receive a guaranteed loan for any year of the student's study at a participating school.

(ii) Loans must be available to or on behalf of any student for at least six academic years of study.

(4) Reinstatement of borrower eligibility. Except as provided in §668.35(b) for a borrower with a defaulted loan on which a judgment has been obtained and §668.35(i) for a borrower who fraudulently obtained title IV, HEA program assistance, reinstatement of Title IV eligibility for a borrower with a defaulted loan must be in accordance with this paragraph (b)(4). For a borrower's loans held by a guaranty agency on which a reinsurance claim has been paid by the Secretary, the guaranty agency must afford a defaulted borrower, upon the borrower's request, renewed eligibility for Title IV assistance once the borrower has made satisfactory repayment arrangements as that term is defined in §682.200.

(i) For purposes of this section, the determination of reasonable and affordable must—

(A) Include consideration of the borrower's and spouse's disposable income and necessary expenses including, but not limited to, housing, utilities, food, medical costs, dependent care costs, work-related expenses and other Title IV repayment;

(B) Not be a required minimum payment amount, e.g. $50, if the agency determines that a smaller amount is reasonable and affordable based on the borrower's total financial circumstances. The agency must include documentation in the borrower's file of the basis for the determination, if the monthly reasonable and affordable payment established under this section is less than $50.00 or the monthly accrued interest on the loan, whichever is greater.

(C) Be based on the documentation provided by the borrower or other sources including, but not limited to—

( 1 ) Evidence of current income (e.g. proof of welfare benefits, Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security Income, Workers' Compensation, child support, veterans' benefits, two most recent pay stubs, most recent copy of U.S. income tax return, State Department of Labor reports);

( 2 ) Evidence of current expenses (e.g. a copy of the borrower's monthly household budget, on a form provided by the guaranty agency); and

( 3 ) A statement of the unpaid balance on all FFEL loans held by other holders.

(ii) A borrower may request that the monthly payment amount be adjusted due to a change in the borrower's total financial circumstances upon providing the documentation specified in paragraph (b)(4)(i)(C) of this section.

(iii) A guaranty agency must provide the borrower with a written statement of the reasonable and affordable payment amount required for the reinstatement of the borrower's eligibility for Title IV student assistance, and provide the borrower with an opportunity to object to those terms.

(iv) A guaranty agency must provide the borrower with written information regarding the possibility of loan rehabilitation if the borrower makes three additional reasonable and affordable monthly payments after making payments to regain eligibility for Title IV assistance and the consequences of loan rehabilitation.

(v) A guaranty agency must inform the borrower that he or she may only obtain reinstatement of borrower eligibility under this section once.

(5) Borrower responsibilities. (i) The borrower must indicate his or her preferred lender on the promissory note or other written or electronic documentation submitted during the loan origination process if he or she has such a preference.

(ii) The borrower must give the lender, as part of the promissory note or application process for a parent PLUS loan—

(A) A statement, as described in 34 CFR part 668, that the loan will be used for the cost of the student's attendance;

(B) A statement from the student authorizing the school to release information relevant to the student's eligibility to have a parent borrow on the student's behalf (e.g., the student's enrollment status, financial assistance, and employment records); and

(C) Information from the school providing the maximum amount that may be borrowed on behalf of the student.

(iii) The borrower shall give the lender, as part of the application process for a Consolidation loan—

(A) Information demonstrating that the borrower is eligible for the loan under §682.201(c); and

(B) A statement that the borrower does not currently have another application for a Consolidation loan pending.

(iv) The borrower shall promptly notify—

(A) The current holder or the guaranty agency of any change of name, address, student status to less than half-time, employer, or employer's address; and

(B) The school of any change in local address during enrollment.

(6) School eligibility —(i) General. A school that has a program participation agreement in effect with the Secretary under §682.14(a) is eligible to participate in the program of the agency under reasonable criteria established by the guaranty agency, and approved by the Secretary, under paragraph (d)(2) of this section, except to the extent that—

(A) The school's eligibility is limited, suspended, or terminated by the Secretary under 34 CFR part 668 or by the guaranty agency under standards and procedures that are substantially the same as those in 34 CFR part 668;

(B) The Secretary upholds the limitation, suspension, or termination of a school by a guaranty agency and extends that sanction to all guaranty agency programs under section 432(h)(3) of the Act or §682.713;

(C) The school is ineligible under section 435(a)(2) of the Act;

(D) There is a State constitutional prohibition affecting the school's eligibility;

(E) The school's programs consist of study solely by correspondence;

(F) The agency determines, subject to the agreement of the Secretary, that the school does not satisfy the standards of administrative capability and financial responsibility as defined in 34 CFR part 668;

(G) The school fails to make timely refunds to students as required in §682.607(c);

(H) The school has not satisfied, within 30 days of issuance, a final judgment obtained by a student seeking a refund;

(I) The school or an owner, director, or officer of the school is found guilty or liable in any criminal, civil, or administrative proceeding regarding the obtaining, maintenance, or disbursement of State or Federal student grant, loan, or work assistance funds; or

(J) The school or an owner, director, or officer of the school has unpaid financial liabilities involving the improper acquisition, expenditure, or refund of State or Federal student financial assistance funds.

(ii) Limitation by a guaranty agency of a school's participation. For purposes of this paragraph, a school that is subject to limitation of participation in the guaranty agency's program may be either a school that is applying to participate in the agency's program for the first time, or a school that is renewing its application to continue participation in the agency's program. A guaranty agency may limit the total number of loans or the volume of loans made to students attending a particular school, or otherwise establish appropriate limitations on the school's participation, if the agency makes a determination that the school does not satisfy—

(A) The standards of financial responsibility defined in 34 CFR 668.5; or

(B) The standards of administrative capability defined in 34 CFR 668.16.

(iii) Limitation, suspension, or termination of school eligibility. A guaranty agency may limit, suspend, or terminate the participation of an eligible school. If a guaranty agency limits, suspends, or terminates the participation of a school from the agency's program, the Secretary applies that limitation, suspension, or termination to all locations of the school.

(iv) Condition for guaranteeing loans for students attending a school. The guaranty agency may require the school to execute a participation agreement with the agency and to submit documentation that establishes the school's eligibility to participate in the agency's program.

(7) Lender eligibility. (i) An eligible lender may participate in the program of the agency under reasonable criteria established by the guaranty agency except to the extent that—

(A) The lender's eligibility has been limited, suspended, or terminated by the Secretary under subpart G of this part or by the agency under standards and procedures that are substantially the same as those in subpart G of this part; or

(B) The lender is disqualified by the Secretary under sections 432(h)(1), 432(h)(2), 435(d)(3), or 435(d)(5) of the Act or §682.712; or

(C) There is a State constitutional prohibition affecting the lender's eligibility.

(ii) The agency may not guarantee a loan made by a school lender that is not located in the geographical area that the agency serves.

(iii) The guaranty agency may refuse to guarantee loans made by a school on behalf of students not attending that school.

(iv) The guaranty agency may, in determining whether to enter into a guarantee agreement with a lender, consider whether the lender has had prior experience in a similar Federal, State, or private nonprofit student loan program and the amount and percentage of loans that are currently delinquent or in default under that program.

(8) Out-of-State schools. The agency shall guarantee Stafford, SLS, and PLUS loans for students who are legal residents of any State served by the agency under §682.404(h)(2) but who attend schools out of that State and for parents who are legal residents of that State and are borrowing on behalf of students attending schools out of that State. In guaranteeing these loans, the agency may not impose any restrictions that it does not apply to borrowers who are legal residents of the State attending in-State schools or to parent borrowers who are legal residents of the State and are borrowing for students attending in-State schools.

(9) Out-of-State residents. The agency shall guarantee Stafford, SLS, and PLUS loans for students who are not legal residents of any State served by the agency under §682.404(h)(2) but who attend schools in that State, and for parents who are not legal residents of that State and who are borrowing on behalf of students attending schools in that State. In guaranteeing these loans, the agency may not impose any restrictions that it does not apply to borrowers who are legal residents of the State attending in-State schools, or to parent borrowers who are legal residents of the State and who are borrowing for students attending in-State schools.

(10) Insurance premiums and Federal default fees. (i) Except for a Consolidation Loan or SLS or PLUS loans refinanced under §682.209 (e) or (f), a guaranty agency:

(A) May charge the lender an insurance premium for Stafford, SLS, or PLUS loans it guarantees prior to July 1, 2006; and

(B) Must collect, either from the lender or by payment from any other non-Federal source, a Federal default fee for any Stafford or PLUS loans it guarantees on or after July 1, 2006, to be deposited into the Federal Fund under §682.419.

(ii) The guaranty agency may not use the Federal default fee for incentive payments to lenders, and may only use the insurance premium or the Federal default fee for costs incurred in guaranteeing loans or in the administration of the agency's loan guarantee program, as specified in §682.410(a)(2) or §682.419(c).

(iii) If a lender charges the borrower an insurance premium or Federal default fee, the lender must deduct the charge proportionately from each disbursement of the borrower's loan proceeds.

(iv) The amount of the insurance premium or Federal default fee, as applicable—

(A) May not exceed 3 percent of the principal balance for a loan disbursed on or before June 30, 1994;

(B) May not exceed 1 percent of the principal balance for a loan disbursed on or after July 1, 1994;

(C) Shall be 1 percent of the principal balance of a loan guaranteed on or after July 1, 2006.

(v) If the circumstances specified in paragraph (vi) exist, the guaranty agency shall refund to the lender any insurance premium or Federal default fee paid by the lender.

(vi) The lender shall refund to the borrower by a credit against the borrower's loan balance the insurance premium or Federal default fee paid by the borrower on a loan under the following circumstances:

(A) The insurance premium or Federal default fee attributable to each disbursement of a loan must be refunded if the loan check is returned uncashed to the lender.

(B) The insurance premium or Federal default fee, or an appropriate prorated amount of the premium or fee, must be refunded by application to the borrower's loan balance if—

( 1 ) The loan or a portion of the loan is returned by the school to the lender in order to comply with the Act or with applicable regulations;

( 2 ) Within 120 days of disbursement, the loan or a portion of the loan is repaid or returned, unless—

( i ) The borrower has no FFEL Program loans in repayment status and has requested, in writing, that the repaid or returned funds be used for a different purpose; or

( ii ) The borrower has a FFEL Program loan in repayment status, in which case the payment is applied in accordance with §682.209(b) unless the borrower has requested, in writing, that the repaid or returned funds be applied as a cancellation of all or part of the loan;

( 3 ) Within 120 days of disbursement, the loan check has not been negotiated; or

( 4 ) Within 120 days of disbursement, the loan proceeds disbursed by electronic funds transfer or master check in accordance with §682.207(b)(1)(ii) (B) and (C) have not been released from the restricted account maintained by the school.

(11) Inquiries. The agency must be able to receive and respond to written, electronic, and telephone inquiries.

(12) Administrative fee for Consolidation loans. The guaranty agency may charge a lender a fee, not to exceed $50, reasonably calculated to cover the agency's cost of increased or extended liability incurred in guaranteeing a Consolidation loan. The lender may not pass the fee on to the borrower. If it charges the fee, the agency must charge it for all loans made under the agency's Consolidation Loan program.

(13) Administrative fee for refinancing fixed-rate PLUS or SLS loans. The guaranty agency may require a lender to pay to the guaranty agency up to 50 percent of the fee the lender charges a borrower under §682.202(e) for the purpose of defraying the agency's administrative costs incident to the guarantee of a lender's reissuance of a fixed-rate PLUS or SLS loan at a variable interest rate. If it charges the fee, the agency must charge the same fee to all lenders that refinance under this paragraph.

(14) Guaranty liability. The guaranty agency shall guarantee—

(i) 100 percent of the unpaid principal balance of each loan guaranteed for loans disbursed before October 1, 1993;

(ii) Not more than 98 percent of the unpaid principal balance of each loan guaranteed for loans first disbursed on or after October 1, 1993 and before July 1, 2006; and

(iii) Not more than 97 percent of the unpaid principal balance of each loan guaranteed for loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2006.

(15) Guaranty agency verification of default data. A guaranty agency must meet the requirements and deadlines provided for it in subpart M of 34 CFR part 668 for the cohort default rate process.

(16) Guaranty agency administration. In the case of a State loan guarantee program administered by a State government, the program must be administered by a single State agency, or by one or more private nonprofit institutions or organizations under the supervision of a single State agency. For this purpose, “supervision” includes, but is not limited to, setting policies and procedures, and having full responsibility for the operation of the program.

(17) Loan assignment. (i) Except as provided in paragraph (b)(17)(iii) of this section, the guaranty agency must allow a loan to be assigned only if the loan is fully disbursed and is assigned to—

(A) An eligible lender;

(B) A guaranty agency, in the case of a borrower's default, death, total and permanent disability, or filing of a bankruptcy petition, or for other circumstances approved by the Secretary, such as a loan made for attendance at a school that closed or a false certification claim;

(C) An educational institution, whether or not it is an eligible lender, in connection with the institution's repayment to the agency or to the Secretary of a guarantee or a reinsurance claim payment made on a loan that was ineligible for the payment;

(D) A Federal or State agency or an organization or corporation acting on behalf of such an agency and acting as a conservator, liquidator, or receiver of an eligible lender; or

(E) The Secretary.

(ii) For the purpose of this paragraph, “assigned” means any kind of transfer of an interest in the loan, including a pledge of such an interest as security.

(iii) The guaranty agency must allow a loan to be assigned under paragraph (b)(17)(i) of this section, following the first disbursement of the loan if the assignment does not result in a change in the identity of the party to whom payments must be made.

(18) Transfer of guarantees. Except in the case of a transfer of guarantee requested by a borrower seeking a transfer to secure a single guarantor, the guaranty agency may transfer its guarantee obligation on a loan to another guaranty agency, only with the approval of the Secretary, the transferee agency, and the holder of the loan.

(19) Standards and procedures. (i) The guaranty agency shall establish, disseminate to concerned parties, and enforce standards and procedures for—

(A) Ensuring that all lenders in its program meet the definition of “eligible lender” in section 435(d) of the Act and have a written lender agreement with the agency;

(B) School and lender participation in its program;

(C) Limitation, suspension, termination of school and lender participation;

(D) Emergency action against a participating school or lender;

(E) The exercise of due diligence by lenders in making, servicing, and collecting loans; and

(F) The timely filing by lenders of default, death, disability, bankruptcy, closed school, false certification unpaid refunds, identity theft, and ineligible loan claims.

(ii) The guaranty agency shall ensure that its program and all participants in its program at all times meet the requirements of subparts B, C, D, and F of this part.

(20) Monitoring student enrollment. The guaranty agency shall monitor the enrollment status of a FFEL program borrower or student on whose behalf a parent has borrowed that includes, at a minimum, reporting to the current holder of the loan within 35 days any change in the student's enrollment status reported that triggers—

(i) The beginning of the borrower's grace period; or

(ii) The beginning or resumption of the borrower's immediate obligation to make scheduled payments.

(21) Submission of interest and special allowance information. Upon the Secretary's request, the guaranty agency shall submit, or require its lenders to submit, information that the Secretary deems necessary for determining the amount of interest benefits and special allowance payable on the agency's guaranteed loans.

(22) Submission of information for reports. The guaranty agency shall require lenders to submit to the agency the information necessary for the agency to complete the reports required by §682.414(b).

(23) Guaranty agency transfer of information. (i) A guaranty agency from which another guaranty agency requests information regarding Stafford and SLS loans made after January 1, 1987, to students who are residents of the State for which the requesting agency is the principal guaranty agency shall provide—

(A) The name and social security number of the student; and

(B) The annual loan amount and the cumulative amount borrowed by the student in loans under the Stafford and SLS programs guaranteed by the responding agency.

(ii) The reasonable costs incurred by an agency in fulfilling a request for information made under paragraph (b)(23)(i) of this section must be paid by the guaranty agency making the request.

(24) Information on defaults. The guaranty agency shall, upon the request of a school, furnish information with respect to students, including the names and addresses of such students, who were enrolled at that school and who are in default on the repayment of any loan guaranteed by that agency.

(25) Information on loan sales or transfers. The guaranty agency must, upon the request of a school, furnish to the school last attended by the student, information with respect to the sale or transfer of a borrower's loan prior to the beginning of the repayment period, including—

(i) Notice of assignment;

(ii) The identity of the assignee;

(iii) The name and address of the party by which contact may be made with the holder concerning repayment of the loan; and

(iv) The telephone number of the assignee or, if the assignee uses a lender servicer, another appropriate number for borrower inquiries.

(26) Third-party servicers. The guaranty agency may not enter into a contract with a third-party servicer that the Secretary has determined does not meet the financial and compliance standards under §682.416. The guaranty agency shall provide the Secretary with the name and address of any third-party servicer with which the agency enters into a contract and, upon request by the Secretary, a copy of that contract.

(27) Consolidation of defaulted FFEL loans.

(i) A guaranty agency may charge collection costs in an amount not to exceed 18.5 percent of the outstanding principal and interest on a defaulted FFEL Program loan that is paid off by a Federal Consolidation loan.

(ii) Prior to October 1, 2006, when returning the proceeds from the consolidation of a defaulted loan to the Secretary, a guaranty agency may only retain the amount charged to the borrower pursuant to this paragraph.

(iii) On or after October 1, 2006, when returning proceeds to the Secretary from the consolidation of a defaulted loan, a guaranty agency that charged the borrower collection costs must remit an amount that equals the lesser of the actual collection costs charged or 8.5 percent of the outstanding principal and interest of the loan.

(iv) On or after October 1, 2009, when returning proceeds to the Secretary from the consolidation of a defaulted loan that is paid off with excess consolidation proceeds as defined in paragraph (b)(27)(v) of this section, a guaranty agency must remit the entire amount of collection costs repaid through the consolidation loan pursuant to paragraph (b)(27)(ii) of this section.

(v) The term excess consolidation proceeds means, for any Federal fiscal year beginning on or after October 1, 2009, the amount of Consolidation Loan proceeds received for defaulted loans under the FFEL Program that exceed 45 percent of the agency's total collections on defaulted loans in that Federal fiscal year.

(28) Change in agency's records system. The agency shall provide written notification to the Secretary at least 30 days prior to placing its new guarantees or converting the records relating to its existing guaranty portfolio to an information or computer system that is owned by, or otherwise under the control of, an entity that is different than the party that owns or controls the agency's existing information or computer system. If the agency is soliciting bids from third parties with respect to a proposed conversion, the agency shall provide written notice to the Secretary as soon as the solicitation begins. The notification described in this paragraph must include a concise description of the agency's conversion project and the actual or estimated cost of the project.

(29) Plans to Reduce Consolidation of defaulted loans. A guaranty agency shall establish and submit to the Secretary for approval, procedures to ensure that consolidation loans are not an excessive proportion of the guaranty agency's recoveries on defaulted loans.

(c) Lender-of-last-resort. (1) The guaranty agency must ensure that it, or an eligible lender described in section 435(d)(1)(D) of the Act, serves as a lender-of-last-resort in the State in which the guaranty agency is the designated guaranty agency. The guaranty agency or an eligible lender described in section 435(d)(1)(D) of the Act may arrange for a loan required to be made under paragraph (c)(2) of this section to be made by another eligible lender. As used in this paragraph, the term “designated guaranty agency” means the guaranty agency in the State for which the Secretary has signed a Basic Program Agreement under this section.

(2) The lender-of-last-resort must make subsidized Federal Stafford loans and unsubsidized Federal Stafford loans to any eligible student who—

(i) Qualifies for interest benefits pursuant to §682.301;

(ii) Qualifies for a combined loan amount of at least $200; and

(iii) Has been otherwise unable to obtain loans from another eligible lender for the same period of enrollment.

(3) The lender-of-last resort may make unsubsidized Federal Stafford and Federal PLUS loans to borrowers who have been otherwise unable to obtain those loans from another eligible lender.

(4) The guaranty agency must develop policies and operating procedures for its lender-of-last-resort program that provide for the accessibility of lender-of-last-resort loans. These policies and procedures must be submitted to the Secretary for approval as required under paragraph (d)(2) of this section. The policies and procedures for the agency's lender-of-last-resort program must ensure that—

(i) The guaranty agency will serve eligible students attending any eligible school;

(ii) The program establishes operating hours and methods of application designed to facilitate application by students; and

(iii) Information about the availability of loans under the program is made available to schools in the State;

(iv) Appropriate steps are taken to ensure that borrowers receiving loans under the program are appropriately counseled on their loan obligation;

(v) The guaranty agency will respond to a student within 60 days after the student submits an original complete application; and

(vi) Borrowers are not required to obtain more than two objections from eligible lenders prior to requesting assistance under the lender-of-last-resort program.

(5)(i) Upon request of the guaranty agency, the Secretary may advance Federal funds to the agency, on terms and conditions agreed to by the Secretary and the agency, to ensure the availability of loan capital for subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Stafford and Federal PLUS loans to borrowers who are otherwise unable to obtain those loans if the Secretary determines that—

(A) Eligible borrowers in a State who qualify for subsidized Federal Stafford loans are seeking and are unable to obtain subsidized Federal Stafford loans;

(B) The guaranty agency designated for that State has the capability for providing lender-of-last-resort loans in a timely manner, either directly or indirectly using a third party, in accordance with the guaranty agency's obligations under the Act, but cannot do so without advances provided by the Secretary; and

(C) It would be cost-effective to advance Federal funds to the agency.

(ii) If the Secretary determines that the designated guaranty agency does not have the capability to provide lender-of-last-resort loans, in accordance with paragraph (c)(5)(i) of this section, the Secretary may provide Federal funds to another guaranty agency, under terms and conditions agreed to by the Secretary and the agency, to make lender-of-last-resort loans in that State.

(d) Review of forms and procedures. (1) The guaranty agency shall submit to the Secretary its write-off criteria and procedures. The agency may not use these materials until the Secretary approves them.

(2) The guaranty agency shall promptly submit to the Secretary its regulations, statements of procedures and standards, agreements, and other materials that substantially affect the operation of the agency's program, and any proposed changes to those materials. Except as provided in paragraph (d)(1) of this section, the agency may use these materials unless and until the Secretary disapproves them.

(3) The guaranty agency must use common application forms, promissory notes, Master Promissory Notes (MPN), and other common forms approved by the Secretary.

(4)(i) The Secretary authorizes the use of the multi-year feature of the MPN—

(A) For students and parents for attendance at four-year or graduate/professional schools; and

(B) For students and parents for attendance at other institutions meeting criteria or otherwise designated at the sole discretion of the Secretary.

(ii) The Secretary may prohibit use of the multi-year feature of the MPN at specific schools described under paragraph (4)(i) of this section under circumstances including, but not limited to, the school being subject to an emergency action or a limitation, suspension, or termination action, or not meeting other performance criteria determined by the Secretary.

(iii) A student or parent borrower who is borrowing funds for attendance at a school for which the multi-year feature of the MPN has not been authorized must complete a new promissory note for each academic year.

(iv) Each loan made under an MPN is enforceable in accordance with the terms of the MPN and is eligible for claim payment based on a true and exact copy of such MPN.

(v) A lender's ability to make additional loans under an MPN will automatically expire upon the earliest of—

(A) The date the lender receives written notification from the borrower requesting that the MPN no longer be used as the basis for additional loans;

(B) Twelve months after the date the borrower signed the MPN if no disbursements are issued by the lender under that MPN; or

(C) Ten years from the date the borrower signed the MPN or the date the lender receives the MPN. However, if a portion of a loan is made on or before 10 years from the signature date, remaining disbursements of that loan may be made.

(vi) The lender and school must develop and document a confirmation process in accordance with guidelines established by the Secretary for loans made under the multi-year feature of the MPN.

(5) The guaranty agency must develop and implement appropriate procedures that provide for the granting of a student deferment as specified in §682.210(a)(6)(iv) and (c)(3) and require their lenders to use these procedures.

(6) The guaranty agency shall ensure that all program materials meet the requirements of Federal and State law, including, but not limited to, the Act and the regulations in this part and part 668.

(e) Prohibited activities. (1) A guaranty agency may not, directly or through an agent or contractor—

(i) Except as provided in paragraph (e)(2) of this section, offer directly or indirectly from any fund or assets available to the guaranty agency, any premium, payment, or other inducement to any prospective borrower of an FFEL loan, or to a school or school-affiliated organization or an employee of a school or school-affiliated organization, to secure applications for FFEL loans. This includes, but is not limited to—

(A) Payments or offerings of other benefits, including prizes or additional financial aid funds, to a prospective borrower in exchange for processing a loan using the agency's loan guarantee;

(B) Payments or other benefits, including prizes or additional financial aid funds under any Title IV or State or private program, to a school or school-affiliated organization based on the school's or organization's voluntary or coerced agreement to use the guaranty agency for processing loans, or to provide a specified volume of loans using the agency's loan guarantee;

(C) Payments or other benefits to a school or any school-affiliated organization, or to any individual in exchange for FFEL loan applications or application referrals, a specified volume or dollar amount of FFEL loans using the agency's loan guarantee, or the placement of a lender that uses the agency's loan guarantee on a school's list of recommended or suggested lenders;

(D) Payment of entertainment expenses, including expenses for private hospitality suites, tickets to shows or sporting events, meals, alcoholic beverages, and any lodging, rental, transportation or other gratuities related to any activity sponsored by the guaranty agency or a lender participating in the agency's program, for school employees or employees of school-affiliated organizations;

(E) Philanthropic activities, including providing scholarships, grants, restricted gifts, or financial contributions in exchange for FFEL loan applications or application referrals, a specified volume or dollar amount of FFEL loans using the agency's loan guarantee, or the placement of a lender that uses the agency's loan guarantee on a school's list of recommended or suggested lenders; and

(F) Staffing services to a school, except for services provided to participating foreign schools at the direction of the Secretary, as a third-party servicer or otherwise on more than a short-term, emergency basis, which is non-recurring, to assist the institution with financial aid-related functions.

(ii) Assess additional costs or deny benefits otherwise provided to schools and lenders participating in the agency's program on the basis of the lender's or school's failure to agree to participate in the agency's program, or to provide a specified volume of loan applications or loan volume to the agency's program or to place a lender that uses the agency's loan guarantee on a school's list of recommended or suggested lenders.

(iii) Offer, directly or indirectly, any premium, incentive payment, or other inducement to any lender, or any person acting as an agent, employee, or independent contractor of any lender or other guaranty agency to administer or market FFEL loans, other than unsubsidized Stafford loans or subsidized Stafford loans made under a guaranty agency's lender-of-last-resort program, in an effort to secure the guaranty agency as an insurer of FFEL loans. Examples of prohibited inducements include, but are not limited to—

(A) Compensating lenders or their representatives for the purpose of securing loan applications for guarantee;

(B) Performing functions normally performed by lenders without appropriate compensation;

(C) Providing equipment or supplies to lenders at below market cost or rental; and

(D) Offering to pay a lender that does not hold loans guaranteed by the agency a fee for each application forwarded for the agency's guarantee.

(iv) Mail or otherwise distribute unsolicited loan applications to students enrolled in a secondary school or a postsecondary institution, or to parents of those students, unless the potential borrower has previously received loans insured by the guaranty agency.

(v) Conduct fraudulent or misleading advertising concerning loan availability.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (e)(1)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this section, a guaranty agency is not prohibited from providing—

(i) Assistance to a school that is comparable to that provided by the Secretary to a school under the Direct Loan Program, as identified by the Secretary in a public announcement, such as a notice in theFederal Register;

(ii) Default aversion activities approved by the Secretary under section 422(h)(4)(B) of the Act;

(iii) Student aid and financial-literacy related outreach activities, excluding in-person school-required initial and exit counseling, as long as the name of the entity that developed and paid for any materials is provided to participants and the guaranty agency does not promote its student loan or other products; but a guaranty agency may promote benefits provided under other Federal or State programs administered by the guaranty agency;

(iv) Meals and refreshments that are reasonable in cost and provided in connection with guaranty agency provided training of program participants and elementary, secondary, and postsecondary school personnel and with workshops and forums customarily used by the agency to fulfill its responsibilities under the Act;

(v) Meals, refreshments and receptions that are reasonable in cost and scheduled in conjunction with training, meeting, or conference events if those meals, refreshments, or receptions are open to all training, meeting, or conference attendees;

(vi) Travel and lodging costs that are reasonable as to cost, location, and duration to facilitate the attendance of school staff in training or service facility tours that they would otherwise not be able to undertake, or to participate in the activities of an agency's governing board, a standing official advisory committee, or in support of other official activities of the agency;

(vii) Toll-free telephone numbers for use by schools or others to obtain information about FFEL loans and free data transmission services for use by schools to electronically submit applicant loan processing information or student status confirmation data;

(viii) Payment of Federal default fees in accordance with the Act;

(ix) Items of nominal value to schools, school-affiliated organizations, and borrowers that are offered as a form of generalized marketing or advertising, or to create good will;

(x) Loan forgiveness programs for public service and other targeted purposes approved by the Secretary, provided the programs are not marketed to secure loan applications or loan guarantees; and

(xi) Other services as identified and approved by the Secretary through a public announcement, such as a notice in theFederal Register.

(3) For the purposes of this section—

(i) The term “school-affiliated organization” is defined in §682.200.

(ii) The term “applications” includes the FAFSA, FFEL loan master promissory notes, and FFEL consolidation loan application and promissory notes.

(iii) The terms “other benefits” includes, but is not limited to, preferential rates for or access to a guaranty agency's products and services, computer hardware or non-loan processing or non-financial aid related computer software at below market rental or purchase cost, and the printing and distribution of college catalogs and other non-counseling or non-student financial aid-related materials at reduced or not costs.

(iv) The terms “premium,” “incentive payment,” and “other inducement” do not include services directly related to the enhancement of the administration of the FFEL Program that the guaranty agency generally provides to lenders that participate in its program. However, the terms “premium,” “incentive payment,” and “inducement” do apply to other activities specifically intended to secure a lender's participation in the agency's program.

(v) The term “emergency basis” for the purpose of staffing services to a school under paragraph (e)(1)(i)(F) of this section means a State- or Federally-declared natural disaster, a Federally-declared national disaster, and other localized disasters and emergencies identified by the Secretary.

(f) College Access Initiative. (1) A guaranty agency shall establish a plan to promote access to postsecondary education by—

(i) Providing the Secretary and the public with information on Internet web links and a comprehensive listing of postsecondary education opportunities, programs, publications and other services available in the State, or States for which the guaranty agency serves as the designated guaranty agency;

(ii) Promoting and publicizing information for students and traditionally underrepresented populations on college planning, career preparation, and paying for college in coordination with other entities that provide or distribute such information in the State, or States for which the guaranty agency serves as the designated guaranty agency;

(2) The activities required by this section may be funded from the guaranty agency's Operating Fund in accordance with §682.423(c)(1)(vii) or from funds remaining in restricted accounts established pursuant to section 422(h)(4) of the HEA.

(3) The guaranty agency shall ensure that the information required by this subsection is available to the public by November 5, 2006 and is—

(i) Free of charge; and

(ii) Available in print.

(Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1078, 1078–1, 1078–2, 1078–3, 1082)

[57 FR 60323, Dec. 18, 1992]

Editorial Note:   ForFederal Registercitations affecting §682.401, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and on GPO Access.

§ 682.402   Death, disability, closed school, false certification, unpaid refunds, and bankruptcy payments.

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Link to an amendment published at 74 FR 55997, Oct. 29, 2009.

(a) General. (1) Rules governing the payment of claims based on filing for relief in bankruptcy, and discharge of loans due to death, total and permanent disability, attendance at a school that closes, false certification by a school of a borrower's eligibility for a loan, and unpaid refunds by a school are set forth in this section.

(2) If a Consolidation loan was obtained jointly by a married couple, the amount of the Consolidation loan that is discharged if one of the borrowers dies or becomes totally and permanently disabled is equal to the portion of the outstanding balance of the Consolidation loan, as of the date the borrower died or became totally and permanently disabled, attributable to any of that borrower's loans that would have been eligible for discharge.

(3) If a PLUS loan was obtained by two parents as co-makers, and only one of the borrowers dies, becomes totally and permanently disabled, has collection of his or her loan obligation stayed by a bankruptcy filing, or has that obligation discharged in bankruptcy, the other borrower remains obligated to repay the loan unless that borrower would qualify for discharge of the loan under these regulations.

(4) Except for a borrower's loan obligation discharged by the Secretary under the false certification discharge provision of paragraphs (e)(1)(ii) or (iii) of this section, a loan qualifies for payment under this section and as provided in paragraph (h)(1)(iv) of this section, only to the extent that the loan is legally enforceable under applicable law by the holder of the loan.

(5) For purposes of this section—

(i) The legal enforceability of a loan is conclusively determined on the basis of a ruling by a court or administrative tribunal of competent jurisdiction with respect to that loan, or a ruling with respect to another loan in a judgment that collaterally estops the holder from contesting the enforceability of the loan;

(ii) A loan is conclusively determined to be legally unenforceable to the extent that the guarantor determines, pursuant to an objection presented in a proceeding conducted in connection with credit bureau reporting, tax refund offset, wage garnishment, or in any other administrative proceeding, that the loan is not legally enforceable; and

(iii) If an objection has been raised by the borrower or another party about the legal enforceability of the loan and no determination has been made under paragraph (a)(5) (i) or (ii) of this section, the Secretary may authorize the payment of a claim under this section under conditions the Secretary considers appropriate. If the Secretary determines in that or any other case that a claim was paid under this section with respect to a loan that was not a legally enforceable obligation of the borrower, the recipient of that payment must refund that amount of the payment to the Secretary.

(b) Death. (1) If an individual borrower dies, or the student for whom a parent received a PLUS loan dies, the obligation of the borrower and any endorser to make any further payments on the loan is discharged.

(2) A discharge of a loan based on the death of the borrower (or student in the case of a PLUS loan) must be based on an original or certified copy of the death certificate, or an accurate and complete photocopy of the original or certified copy of the death certificate. Under exceptional circumstances and on a case-by-case basis, the chief executive officer of the guaranty agency may approve a discharge based upon other reliable documentation supporting the discharge request.

(3) After receiving reliable information indicating that the borrower (or student) has died, the lender must suspend any collection activity against the borrower and any endorser for up to 60 days and promptly request the documentation described in paragraph (b)(2) of this section. If additional time is required to obtain the documentation, the period of suspension of collection activity may be extended up to an additional 60 days. If the lender is not able to obtain an original or certified copy of the death certificate, or an accurate and complete photocopy of the original or certified copy of the death certificate or other documentation acceptable to the guaranty agency, under the provisions of paragraph (b)(2) of this section, during the period of suspension, the lender must resume collection activity from the point that it had been discontinued. The lender is deemed to have exercised forbearance as to repayment of the loan during the period when collection activity was suspended.

(4) Once the lender has determined under paragraph (b)(2) of this section that the borrower (or student) has died, the lender may not attempt to collect on the loan from the borrower's estate or from any endorser.

(5) The lender shall return to the sender any payments received from the estate or paid on behalf of the borrower after the date of the borrower's (or student's) death.

(6) In the case of a Federal Consolidation Loan that includes a Federal PLUS or Direct PLUS loan borrowed for a dependent who has died, the obligation of the borrower or any endorser to make any further payments on the portion of the outstanding balance of the Consolidation Loan attributable to the Federal PLUS or Direct PLUS loan is discharged as of the date of the dependent's death.

(c)(1) Total and permanent disability. A borrower's loan is discharged if the borrower becomes totally and permanently disabled, as defined in §682.200(b), and satisfies the additional eligibility requirements contained in this section.

(2) Discharge application process. After being notified by the borrower or the borrower's representative that the borrower claims to be totally and permanently disabled, the lender promptly requests that the borrower or the borrower's representative submit a discharge application to the lender, on a form approved by the Secretary. The application must contain a certification by a physician, who is a doctor of medicine or osteopathy legally authorized to practice in a State, that the borrower is totally and permanently disabled as defined in §682.200(b). The borrower must submit the application to the lender within 90 days of the date the physician certifies the application. If the lender and guaranty agency approve the discharge claim, under the procedures in paragraph (c)(5) of this section, the guaranty agency must assign the loan to the Secretary.

(3) Secretary's initial eligibility determination. (i) If, after reviewing the borrower's application, the Secretary determines that the certification provided by the borrower supports the conclusion that the borrower meets the criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge, as defined in §682.200(b), the borrower is considered totally and permanently disabled as of the date the physician completes and certifies the borrower's application.

(ii) Upon making an initial determination that the borrower is totally and permanently disabled as defined in §682.200(b), the Secretary notifies the borrower that the loan will be in a conditional discharge status for a period of up to three years and that no payments are due on the loan. The notification to the borrower identifies the conditions of the conditional discharge specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section. The conditional discharge period begins on the date the physician certified on the application that the borrower is totally and permanently disabled, as defined in §682.200(b).

(iii) If the Secretary determines that the certification provided by the borrower does not support the conclusion that the borrower meets the criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section, the Secretary notifies the borrower that the application for a disability discharge has been denied, and that the loan is due and payable to the Secretary under the terms of the promissory note.

(4) Eligibility requirements for total and permanent disability discharge. (i) A borrower meets the eligibility criteria for a discharge of a loan based on total and permanent disability if, from the date the physician certifies the borrower's application, through the end of the three-year conditional discharge period—

(A) The borrower's annual earnings from employment do not exceed 100 percent of the poverty line for a family of two, as determined in accordance with the Community Service Block Grant Act;

(B) The borrower does not receive a new TEACH Grant or a new loan under the Perkins, FFEL, or Direct Loan programs, except for a FFEL or Direct Consolidation Loan that does not include any loans that are in a conditional discharge status; and

(C) The borrower ensures that the full amount of any title IV loan disbursement on any loan received prior to the date the physician completed and certified the application is returned to the holder within 120 days of the disbursement date.

(ii) During the conditional discharge period, the borrower or, if applicable, the borrower's representative—

(A) Is not required to make any payments on the loan;

(B) Is not considered delinquent or in default on the loan, unless the loan was past due or in default at the time the conditional discharge was granted;

(C) Must promptly notify the Secretary of any changes in address or phone number;

(D) Must promptly notify the Secretary if the borrower's annual earnings from employment exceed the amount specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i)(A) of this section; and

(E) Must provide the Secretary, upon request, with additional documentation or information related to the borrower's eligibility for a discharge under this section.

(iii) If the borrower satisfies the criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge during and at the end of the conditional discharge period, the balance of the loan is discharged at the end of the conditional discharge period and any payments received after the physician completed and certified the borrower's loan discharge application are returned to the person who made the payments on the loan.

(iv) If, at any time during or at the end of the three-year conditional discharge period, the Secretary determines that the borrower does not continue to meet the eligibility criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge, the Secretary ends the conditional discharge period and resumes collection activity on the loan. The Secretary does not require the borrower to pay any interest that accrued on the loan from the date of the Secretary's initial eligibility determination described in paragraph (c)(3)(i) of this section through the end of the conditional discharge period.

(v) The Secretary reserves the right to require the borrower to submit additional medical evidence if the Secretary determines that the borrower's application does not conclusively prove that the borrower is disabled. As part of this review or at any time during the application process or during or at the end of the conditional discharge period, the Secretary may arrange for an additional review of the borrower's condition by an independent physician at no expense to the applicant.

(5) Lender and guaranty agency responsibilities. (i) After being notified by a borrower or a borrower's representative that the borrower claims to be totally and permanently disabled, the lender must continue collection activities until it receives either the certification of total and permanent disability from a physician or a letter from a physician stating that the certification has been requested and that additional time is needed to determine if the borrower is totally and permanently disabled, as defined in §682.200(b). Except as provided in paragraph (c)(5)(iii) of this section, after receiving the physician's certification or letter the lender may not attempt to collect from the borrower or any endorser.

(ii) The lender must submit a disability claim to the guaranty agency if the borrower submits a certification by a physician and the lender makes a determination that the certification supports the conclusion that the borrower meets the criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge, as specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section.

(iii) If the lender determines that a borrower who claims to be totally and permanently disabled is not totally and permanently disabled, as defined in §682.200(b), or if the lender does not receive the physician's certification of total and permanent disability within 60 days of the receipt of the physician's letter requesting additional time, as described in paragraph (c)(5)(i) of this section, the lender must resume collection and is deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of both principal and interest from the date collection activity was suspended. The lender may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(iv) The guaranty agency must pay a claim submitted by the lender if the guaranty agency has reviewed the application and determined that it is complete and that it supports the conclusion that the borrower meets the criteria for a total and permanent disability discharge, as specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section.

(v) If the guaranty agency does not pay the disability claim, the guaranty agency must return the claim to the lender with an explanation of the basis for the agency's denial of the claim. Upon receipt of the returned claim, the lender must notify the borrower that the application for a disability discharge has been denied, provide the basis for the denial, and inform the borrower that the lender will resume collection on the loan. The lender is deemed to have exercised forbearance of both principal and interest from the date collection activity was suspended until the first payment due date. The lender may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(vi) If the guaranty agency pays the disability claim, the lender must notify the borrower that—

(A) The loan will be assigned to the Secretary for determination of eligibility for a total and permanent disability discharge and that no payments are due on the loan; and

(B) To remain eligible for the discharge from the date the physician completes and certifies the borrower's total and permanent disability on the application until the borrower receives a final disability discharge, the borrower—

( 1 ) Cannot have annual earnings from employment that exceed 100 percent of the poverty line for a family of two, as determined in accordance with the Community Services Block Grant;

( 2 ) Cannot receive any new Title IV loans except for a FFEL or Direct Consolidation Loan that does not include any loans on which the borrower is seeking a discharge; and

( 3 ) Must ensure that the full amount of any Title IV loan disbursement made to the borrower on or after the date the physician completed and certified the application is returned to the holder within 120 days of the disbursement date.

(vii) After receiving a claim payment from the guaranty agency, the lender must forward to the guaranty agency any payments subsequently received from or on behalf of the borrower.

(viii) The Secretary reimburses the guaranty agency for a disability claim paid to the lender after the agency pays the claim to the lender.

(ix) The guaranty agency must assign the loan to the Secretary after the guaranty agency pays the disability claim.

(d) Closed school —(1) General. (i) The Secretary reimburses the holder of a loan received by a borrower on or after January 1, 1986, and discharges the borrower's obligation with respect to the loan in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section, if the borrower (or the student for whom a parent received a PLUS loan) could not complete the program of study for which the loan was intended because the school at which the borrower (or student) was enrolled, closed, or the borrower (or student) withdrew from the school not more than 90 days prior to the date the school closed. This 90-day period may be extended if the Secretary determines that exceptional circumstances related to a school's closing would justify an extension.

(ii) For purposes of the closed school discharge authorized by this section—

(A) A school's closure date is the date that the school ceases to provide educational instruction in all programs, as determined by the Secretary;

(B) The term “borrower” includes all endorsers on a loan; and

(C) A “school” means a school's main campus or any location or branch of the main campus, regardless of whether the school or its location or branch is considered eligible.

(2) Relief available pursuant to discharge. (i) Discharge under paragraph (d) of this section relieves the borrower of an existing or past obligation to repay the loan and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the holder with respect to the loan that the borrower is, or was otherwise obligated to pay.

(ii) A discharge of a loan under paragraph (d) of this section qualifies the borrower for reimbursement of amounts paid voluntarily or through enforced collection on a loan obligation discharged under paragraph (d) of this section.

(iii) A borrower who has defaulted on a loan discharged under paragraph (d) of this section is not regarded as in default on the loan after discharge, and is eligible to receive assistance under the Title IV, HEA programs.

(iv) A discharge of a loan under paragraph (d) of this section must be reported by the loan holder to all credit reporting agencies to which the holder previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan.

(3) Borrower qualification for discharge. Except as provided in paragraph (d)(8) of this section, in order to qualify for a discharge of a loan under paragraph (d) of this section, a borrower must submit a written request and sworn statement to the holder of the loan. The statement need not be notarized, but must be made by the borrower under the penalty of perjury, and, in the statement, the borrower must state—

(i) Whether the student has made a claim with respect to the school's closing with any third party, such as the holder of a performance bond or a tuition recovery program, and if so, the amount of any payment received by the borrower (or student) or credited to the borrower's loan obligation;

(ii) That the borrower (or the student for whom a parent received a PLUS loan)—

(A) Received, on or after January 1, 1986, the proceeds of any disbursement of a loan disbursed, in whole or in part, on or after January 1, 1986 to attend a school;

(B) Did not complete the educational program at that school because the school closed while the student was enrolled or on an approved leave of absence in accordance with §682.605(c), or the student withdrew from the school not more than 90 days before the school closed; and

(C) Did not complete the program of study through a teach-out at another school or by transferring academic credits or hours earned at the closed school to another school;

(iii) That the borrower agrees to provide, upon request by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, other documentation reasonably available to the borrower that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, that the student meets the qualifications in paragraph (d) of this section; and

(iv) That the borrower agrees to cooperate with the Secretary or the Secretary's designee in enforcement actions in accordance with paragraph (d)(4) of this section, and to transfer any right to recovery against a third party in accordance with paragraph (d)(5) of this section.

(4) Cooperation by borrower in enforcement actions. (i) In any judicial or administrative proceeding brought by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee to recover for amounts discharged under paragraph (d) of this section or to take other enforcement action with respect to the conduct on which those claims were based, a borrower who requests or receives a discharge under paragraph (d) of this section must cooperate with the Secretary or the Secretary's designee. At the request of the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, and upon the Secretary's or the Secretary's designee's tendering to the borrower the fees and costs as are customarily provided in litigation to reimburse witnesses, the borrower shall—

(A) Provide testimony regarding any representation made by the borrower to support a request for discharge; and

(B) Produce any documentation reasonably available to the borrower with respect to those representations and any sworn statement required by the Secretary with respect to those representations and documents.

(ii) The Secretary revokes the discharge, or denies the request for discharge, of a borrower who—

(A) Fails to provide testimony, sworn statements, or documentation to support material representations made by the borrower to obtain the discharge; or

(B) Provides testimony, a sworn statement, or documentation that does not support the material representations made by the borrower to obtain the discharge.

(5) Transfer to the Secretary of borrower's right of recovery against third parties. (i) Upon discharge under paragraph (d) of this section, the borrower is deemed to have assigned to and relinquished in favor of the Secretary any right to a loan refund (up to the amount discharged) that the borrower (or student) may have by contract or applicable law with respect to the loan or the enrollment agreement for the program for which the loan was received, against the school, its principals, affiliates and their successors, its sureties, and any private fund, including the portion of a public fund that represents funds received from a private party.

(ii) The provisions of paragraph (d) of this section apply notwithstanding any provision of State law that would otherwise restrict transfer of such rights by the borrower (or student), limit or prevent a transferee from exercising those rights, or establish procedures or a scheme of distribution that would prejudice the Secretary's ability to recover on those rights.

(iii) Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting or foreclosing the borrower's (or student's) right to pursue legal and equitable relief regarding disputes arising from matters otherwise unrelated to the loan discharged.

(6) Guaranty agency responsibilities —(i) Procedures applicable if a school closed on or after January 1, 1986, but prior to June 13, 1994. (A) If a borrower received a loan for attendance at a school with a closure date on or after January 1, 1986, but prior to June 13, 1994, the loan may be discharged in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (d)(6)(i) of this section.

(B) If a loan subject to paragraph (d) of this section was discharged in part in accordance with the Secretary's “Closed School Policy” as authorized by section IV of Bulletin 89–G–159, the guaranty agency shall initiate the discharge of the remaining balance of the loan not later than August 13, 1994.

(C) A guaranty agency shall review its records and identify all schools that appear to have closed on or after January 1, 1986 and prior to June 13, 1994, and shall identify the loans made to any borrower (or student) who appears to have been enrolled at the school on the school closure date or who withdrew not more than 90 days prior to the closure date.

(D) A guaranty agency shall notify the Secretary immediately if it determines that a school not previously known to have closed appears to have closed, and, within 30 days of making that determination, notify all lenders participating in its program to suspend collection efforts against individuals with respect to loans made for attendance at the closed school, if the student to whom (or on whose behalf) a loan was made, appears to have been enrolled at the school on the closing date, or withdrew not more than 90 days prior to the date the school appears to have closed. Within 30 days after receiving confirmation of the date of a school's closure from the Secretary, the agency shall—

( 1 ) Notify all lenders participating in its program to mail a discharge application explaining the procedures and eligibility criteria for obtaining a discharge and an explanation of the information that must be included in the sworn statement (which may be combined) to all borrowers who may be eligible for a closed school discharge; and

( 2 ) Review the records of loans that it holds, identify the loans made to any borrower (or student) who appears to have been enrolled at the school on the school closure date or who withdrew not more than 90 days prior to the closure date, and mail a discharge application and an explanation of the information that must be included in the sworn statement (which may be combined) to the borrower. The application shall inform the borrower of the procedures and eligibility criteria for obtaining a discharge.

(E) If a loan identified under paragraph (d)(6)(i)(D)( 2 ) of this section is held by the guaranty agency as a defaulted loan and the borrower's current address is known, the guaranty agency shall immediately suspend any efforts to collect from the borrower on any loan received for the program of study for which the loan was made (but may continue to receive borrower payments), and notify the borrower that the agency will provide additional information about the procedures for requesting a discharge after the agency has received confirmation from the Secretary that the school had closed.

(F) If a loan identified under paragraph (d)(6)(i)(D)( 2 ) of this section is held by the guaranty agency as a defaulted loan and the borrower's current address is unknown, the agency shall, by June 13, 1995, further refine the list of borrowers whose loans are potentially subject to discharge under paragraph (d) of this section by consulting with representatives of the closed school, the school's licensing agency, accrediting agency, and other appropriate parties. Upon learning the new address of a borrower who would still be considered potentially eligible for a discharge, the guaranty agency shall, within 30 days after learning the borrower's new address, mail to the borrower a discharge application that meets the requirements of paragraph (d)(6)(i)(E) of this section.

(G) If the guaranty agency determines that a borrower identified in paragraph (d)(6)(i)(E) or (F) of this section has satisfied all of the conditions required for a discharge, the agency shall notify the borrower in writing of that determination within 30 days after making that determination.

(H) If the guaranty agency determines that a borrower identified in paragraph (d)(6)(i)(E) or (F) of this section does not qualify for a discharge, the agency shall notify the borrower in writing of that determination and the reasons for it within 30 days after the date the agency—

( 1 ) Made that determination based on information available to the guaranty agency;

( 2 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the school had not closed;

( 3 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the school had closed on a date that was more than 90 days after the borrower (or student) withdrew from the school;

( 4 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the borrower (or student) was ineligible for a closed school discharge for other reasons; or

( 5 ) Received the borrower's completed application and sworn statement.

(I) If a borrower described in paragraph (d)(6)(i)(E) or (F) of this section fails to submit the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section within 60 days of being notified of that option, the guaranty agency shall resume collection and shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date it suspended collection activity. The agency may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(J) A borrower's request for discharge may not be denied solely on the basis of failing to meet any time limits set by the lender, guaranty agency, or the Secretary.

(ii) Procedures applicable if a school closed on or after June 13, 1994. (A) A guaranty agency shall notify the Secretary immediately whenever it becomes aware of reliable information indicating a school may have closed. The designated guaranty agency in the state in which the school is located shall promptly investigate whether the school has closed and, within 30 days after receiving information indicating that the school may have closed, report the results of its investigation to the Secretary concerning the date of the school's closure and whether a teach-out of the closed school's program was made available to students.

(B) If a guaranty agency determines that a school appears to have closed, it shall, within 30 days of making that determination, notify all lenders participating in its program to suspend collection efforts against individuals with respect to loans made for attendance at the closed school, if the student to whom (or on whose behalf) a loan was made, appears to have been enrolled at the school on the closing date, or withdrew not more than 90 days prior to the date the school appears to have closed. Within 30 days after receiving confirmation of the date of a school's closure from the Secretary, the agency shall—

( 1 ) Notify all lenders participating in its program to mail a discharge application explaining the procedures and eligibility criteria for obtaining a discharge and an explanation of the information that must be included in the sworn statement (which may be combined) to all borrowers who may be eligible for a closed school discharge; and

( 2 ) Review the records of loans that it holds, identify the loans made to any borrower (or student) who appears to have been enrolled at the school on the school closure date or who withdrew not more than 90 days prior to the closure date, and mail a discharge application and an explanation of the information that must be included in the sworn statement (which may be combined) to the borrower. The application shall inform the borrower of the procedures and eligibility criteria for obtaining a discharge.

(C) If a loan identified under paragraph (d)(6)(ii)(B)( 2 ) of this section is held by the guaranty agency as a defaulted loan and the borrower's current address is known, the guaranty agency shall immediately suspend any efforts to collect from the borrower on any loan received for the program of study for which the loan was made (but may continue to receive borrower payments), and notify the borrower that the agency will provide additional information about the procedures for requesting a discharge after the agency has received confirmation from the Secretary that the school had closed.

(D) If a loan identified under paragraph (d)(6)(ii)(B)( 2 ) of this section is held by the guaranty agency as a defaulted loan and the borrower's current address is unknown, the agency shall, within one year after identifying the borrower, attempt to locate the borrower and further determine the borrower's potential eligibility for a discharge under paragraph (d) of this section by consulting with representatives of the closed school, the school's licensing agency, accrediting agency, and other appropriate parties. Upon learning the new address of a borrower who would still be considered potentially eligible for a discharge, the guaranty agency shall, within 30 days after learning the borrower's new address, mail to the borrower a discharge application that meets the requirements of paragraph (d)(6)(ii)(B) of this section.

(E) If the guaranty agency determines that a borrower identified in paragraph (d)(6)(ii)(C) or (D) of this section has satisfied all of the conditions required for a discharge, the agency shall notify the borrower in writing of that determination within 30 days after making that determination.

(F) If the guaranty agency determines that a borrower identified in paragraph (d)(6)(ii)(C) or (D) of this section does not qualify for a discharge, the agency shall notify the borrower in writing of that determination and the reasons for it within 30 days after the date the agency—

( 1 ) Made that determination based on information available to the guaranty agency;

( 2 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the school had not closed;

( 3 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the school had closed on a date that was more than 90 days after the borrower (or student) withdrew from the school;

( 4 ) Was notified by the Secretary that the borrower (or student) was ineligible for a closed school discharge for other reasons; or

( 5 ) Received the borrower's completed application and sworn statement.

(G) Upon receipt of a closed school discharge claim filed by a lender, the agency shall review the borrower's request and supporting sworn statement in light of information available from the records of the agency and from other sources, including other guaranty agencies, state authorities, and cognizant accrediting associations, and shall take the following actions—

( 1 ) If the agency determines that the borrower satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (d) of this section, it shall pay the claim in accordance with §682.402(h) not later than 90 days after the agency received the claim; or

( 2 ) If the agency determines that the borrower does not qualify for a discharge, the agency shall, not later than 90 days after the agency received the claim, return the claim to the lender with an explanation of the reasons for its determination.

(H) If a borrower fails to submit the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section within 60 days of being notified of that option, the lender or guaranty agency shall resume collection and shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date it suspended collection activity. The lender or guaranty agency may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(I) A borrower's request for discharge may not be denied solely on the basis of failing to meet any time limits set by the lender, guaranty agency, or the Secretary.

(7) Lender responsibilities. (i) A lender shall comply with the requirements prescribed in paragraph (d) of this section. In the absence of specific instructions from a guaranty agency or the Secretary, if a lender receives information from a source it believes to be reliable indicating that an existing or former borrower may be eligible for a loan discharge under paragraph (d) of this section, the lender shall immediately notify the guaranty agency, and suspend any efforts to collect from the borrower on any loan received for the program of study for which the loan was made (but may continue to receive borrower payments).

(ii) If the borrower fails to submit the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section within 60 days after being notified of that option, the lender shall resume collection and shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date the lender suspended collection activity. The lender may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(iii) The lender shall file a closed school claim with the guaranty agency in accordance with §682.402(g) no later than 60 days after the lender receives the borrower's written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section. If a lender receives a payment made by or on behalf of the borrower on the loan after the lender files a claim on the loan with the guaranty agency, the lender shall forward the payment to the guaranty agency within 30 days of its receipt. The lender shall assist the guaranty agency and the borrower in determining whether the borrower is eligible for discharge of the loan.

(iv) Within 30 days after receiving reimbursement from the guaranty agency for a closed school claim, the lender shall notify the borrower that the loan obligation has been discharged, and request that all credit bureaus to which it previously reported the status of the loan delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan.

(v) Within 30 days after being notified by the guaranty agency that the borrower's request for a closed school discharge has been denied, the lender shall resume collection and notify the borrower of the reasons for the denial. The lender shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date the lender suspended collection activity, and may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(8) Discharge without an application. A borrower's obligation to repay an FFEL Program loan may be discharged without an application from the borrower if the—

(i) Borrower received a discharge on a loan pursuant to 34 CFR 674.33(g) under the Federal Perkins Loan Program, or 34 CFR 685.213 under the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program; or

(ii) The Secretary or the guaranty agency, with the Secretary's permission, determines that the borrower qualifies for a discharge based on information in the Secretary or guaranty agency's possession.

(e) False certification by a school of a student's eligibility to borrow and unauthorized disbursements —(1) General. (i) The Secretary reimburses the holder of a loan received by a borrower on or after January 1, 1986, and discharges a current or former borrower's obligation with respect to the loan in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (e) of this section, if the borrower's (or the student for whom a parent received a PLUS loan) eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified by an eligible school. On or after July 1, 2006, the Secretary reimburses the holder of a loan, and discharges a borrower's obligation with respect to the loan in accordance with the provisions of paragraph (e) of this section, if the borrower's eligibility to receive the loan was falsely certified as a result of a crime of identity theft. For purposes of a false certification discharge, the term “borrower” includes all endorsers on a loan. A student's or other individual's eligibility to borrow shall be considered to have been falsely certified by the school if the school—

(A) Certified the student's eligibility for a FFEL Program loan on the basis of ability to benefit from its training and the student did not meet the applicable requirements described in 34 CFR part 668 and section 484(d) of the Act, as applicable and as described in paragraph (e)(13) of this section; or

(B) Signed the borrower's name without authorization by the borrower on the loan application or promissory note.

(C) Certified the eligibility of an individual for an FFEL Program loan as a result of the crime of identity theft committed against the individual, as that crime is defined in §682.402(e)(14).

(ii) The Secretary discharges the obligation of a borrower with respect to a loan disbursement for which the school, without the borrower's authorization, endorsed the borrower's loan check or authorization for electronic funds transfer, unless the student for whom the loan was made received the proceeds of the loan either by actual delivery of the loan funds or by a credit in the amount of the contested disbursement applied to charges owed to the school for that portion of the educational program completed by the student. However, the Secretary does not reimburse the lender with respect to any amount disbursed by means of a check bearing an unauthorized endorsement unless the school also executed the application or promissory note for that loan for the named borrower without that individual's consent.

(iii) If a loan was made as a result of the crime of identity theft that was committed by an employee or agent of the lender, or if at the time the loan was made, an employee or agent of the lender knew of the identity theft of the individual named as the borrower—

(A) The Secretary does not pay reinsurance, and does not reimburse the holder, for any amount disbursed on the loan; and

(B) Any amounts received by a holder as interest benefits and special allowance payments with respect to the loan must be refunded to the Secretary, as provided in paragraphs (e)(8)(ii)(B)(4) and (e)(10)(ii)(D) of this section.

(2) Relief available pursuant to discharge. (i) Discharge under paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section relieves the borrower of an existing or past obligation to repay the loan certified by the school, and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the holder with respect to the loan that the borrower is, or was, otherwise obligated to pay.

(ii) A discharge of a loan under paragraph (e) of this section qualifies the borrower for reimbursement of amounts paid voluntarily or through enforced collection on a loan obligation discharged under paragraph (e) of this section.

(iii) A borrower who has defaulted on a loan discharged under paragraph (e) of this section is not regarded as in default on the loan after discharge, and is eligible to receive assistance under the Title IV, HEA programs.

(iv) A discharge of a loan under paragraph (e) of this section is reported by the loan holder to all credit reporting agencies to which the holder previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse or inaccurate credit history assigned to the loan.

(v) Discharge under paragraph (e)(1)(ii) of this section qualifies the borrower for relief only with respect to the amount of the disbursement discharged.

(3) Borrower qualification for discharge. Except as provided in paragraph (e)(14) of this section, to qualify for a discharge of a loan under paragraph (e) of this section, the borrower must submit to the holder of the loan a written request and a sworn statement. The statement need not be notarized, but must be made by the borrower under penalty of perjury, and, in the statement, the borrower must—

(i) State whether the student has made a claim with respect to the school's false certification with any third party, such as the holder of a performance bond or a tuition recovery program, and if so, the amount of any payment received by the borrower (or student) or credited to the borrower's loan obligation;

(ii) In the case of a borrower requesting a discharge based on defective testing of the student's ability to benefit, state that the borrower (or the student for whom a parent received a PLUS loan)—

(A) Received, on or after January 1, 1986, the proceeds of any disbursement of a loan disbursed, in whole or in part, on or after January 1, 1986 to attend a school; and

(B) Was admitted to that school on the basis of ability to benefit from its training and did not meet the applicable requirements for admission on the basis of ability to benefit as described in paragraph (e)(13) of this section;

(iii) In the case of a borrower requesting a discharge because the school signed the borrower's name on the loan application or promissory note—

(A) State that the signature on either of those documents was not the signature of the borrower; and

(B) Provide five different specimens of his or her signature, two of which must be not earlier or later than one year before or after the date of the contested signature;

(iv) In the case of a borrower requesting a discharge because the school, without authorization of the borrower, endorsed the borrower's name on the loan check or signed the authorization for electronic funds transfer or master check, the borrower shall—

(A) Certify that he or she did not endorse the loan check or sign the authorization for electronic funds transfer or master check, or authorize the school to do so;

(B) Provide five different specimens of his or her signature, two of which must be not earlier or later than one year before or after the date of the contested signature; and

(C) State that the proceeds of the contested disbursement were not received either through actual delivery of the loan funds or by a credit in the amount of the contested disbursement applied to charges owed to the school for that portion of the educational program completed by the student;

(v) In the case of an individual who is requesting a discharge of a loan because the individual's eligibility was falsely certified as a result of a crime of identity theft committed against the individual—

(A) Certify that the individual did not sign the promissory note, or that any other means of identification used to obtain the loan was used without the authorization of the individual claiming relief;

(B) Certify that the individual did not receive or benefit from the proceeds of the loan with knowledge that the loan had been made without the authorization of the individual;

(C) Provide a copy of a local, State, or Federal court verdict or judgment that conclusively determines that the individual who is named as the borrower of the loan was the victim of a crime of identify theft by a perpetrator named in the verdict or judgment;

(D) If the judicial determination of the crime does not expressly state that the loan was obtained as a result of the crime, provide—

( 1 ) Authentic specimens of the signature of the individual, as provided in paragraph (e)(3)(iii)(B), or other means of identification of the individual, as applicable, corresponding to the means of identification falsely used to obtain the loan; and

( 2 ) A statement of facts that demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that eligibility for the loan in question was falsely certified as a result of the crime of identity theft committed against that individual.

(vi) That the borrower agrees to provide upon request by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, other documentation reasonably available to the borrower, that demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, that the student meets the qualifications in paragraph (e) of this section; and

(vii) That the borrower agrees to cooperate with the Secretary or the Secretary's designee in enforcement actions in accordance with paragraph (e)(4) of this section, and to transfer any right to recovery against a third party in accordance with paragraph (e)(5) of this section.

(4) Cooperation by borrower in enforcement actions. (i) In any judicial or administrative proceeding brought by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee to recover for amounts discharged under paragraph (e) of this section or to take other enforcement action with respect to the conduct on which those claims were based, a borrower who requests or receives a discharge under paragraph (e) of this section must cooperate with the Secretary or the Secretary's designee. At the request of the Secretary or the Secretary's designee, and upon the Secretary's or the Secretary's designee's tendering to the borrower the fees and costs as are customarily provided in litigation to reimburse witnesses, the borrower shall—

(A) Provide testimony regarding any representation made by the borrower to support a request for discharge; and

(B) Produce any documentation reasonably available to the borrower with respect to those representations and any sworn statement required by the Secretary with respect to those representations and documents.

(ii) The Secretary revokes the discharge, or denies the request for discharge, of a borrower who—

(A) Fails to provide testimony, sworn statements, or documentation to support material representations made by the borrower to obtain the discharge; or

(B) Provides testimony, a sworn statement, or documentation that does not support the material representations made by the borrower to obtain the discharge.

(5) Transfer to the Secretary of borrower's right of recovery against third parties. (i) Upon discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, the borrower is deemed to have assigned to and relinquished in favor of the Secretary any right to a loan refund (up to the amount discharged) that the borrower (or student) may have by contract or applicable law with respect to the loan or the enrollment agreement for the program for which the loan was received, against the school, its principals, affiliates and their successors, its sureties, and any private fund, including the portion of a public fund that represents funds received from a private party.

(ii) The provisions of paragraph (e) of this section apply notwithstanding any provision of state law that would otherwise restrict transfer of such rights by the borrower (or student), limit or prevent a transferee from exercising those rights, or establish procedures or a scheme of distribution that would prejudice the Secretary's ability to recover on those rights.

(iii) Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting or foreclosing the borrower's (or student's) right to pursue legal and equitable relief regarding disputes arising from matters otherwise unrelated to the loan discharged.

(6) Guaranty agency responsibilities—general. (i) A guaranty agency shall notify the Secretary immediately whenever it becomes aware of reliable information indicating that a school may have falsely certified a student's eligibility or caused an unauthorized disbursement of loan proceeds, as described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section. The designated guaranty agency in the state in which the school is located shall promptly investigate whether the school has falsely certified a student's eligibility and, within 30 days after receiving information indicating that the school may have done so, report the results of its preliminary investigation to the Secretary.

(ii) If the guaranty agency receives information it believes to be reliable indicating that a borrower whose loan is held by the agency may be eligible for a discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, the agency shall immediately suspend any efforts to collect from the borrower on any loan received for the program of study for which the loan was made (but may continue to receive borrower payments), and inform the borrower of the procedures for requesting a discharge.

(iii) If the borrower fails to submit the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section within 60 days of being notified of that option, the guaranty agency shall resume collection and shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date it suspended collection activity. The agency may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(iv) Upon receipt of a discharge claim filed by a lender or a request submitted by a borrower with respect to a loan held by the guaranty agency, the agency shall have up to 90 days to determine whether the discharge should be granted. The agency shall review the borrower's request and supporting sworn statement in light of information available from the records of the agency and from other sources, including other guaranty agencies, state authorities, and cognizant accrediting associations.

(v) A borrower's request for discharge and sworn statement may not be denied solely on the basis of failing to meet any time limits set by the lender, the Secretary or the guaranty agency.

(7) Guaranty agency responsibilities with respect to a claim filed by a lender based on the borrower's assertion that he or she did not sign the loan application or the promissory note that he or she was a victim of the crime of identity theft, or that the school failed to test, or improperly tested, the student's ability to benefit. (i) The agency shall evaluate the borrower's request and consider relevant information it possesses and information available from other sources, and follow the procedures described in paragraph (e)(7) of this section.

(ii) If the agency determines that the borrower satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, it shall, not later than 30 days after the agency makes that determination, pay the claim in accordance with §682.402(h) and—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender has been informed of the actions required under paragraph (e)(7)(ii)(C) of this section;

(B) Refund to the borrower all amounts paid by the borrower to the lender or the agency with respect to the discharged loan amount, including any late fees or collection charges imposed by the lender or agency related to the discharged loan amount; and

(C) Notify the lender that the borrower's liability with respect to the amount of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender must—

( 1 ) Immediately terminate any collection efforts against the borrower with respect to the discharged loan amount and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the lender related to the discharged loan amount that the borrower is, or was, otherwise obligated to pay; and

( 2 ) Within 30 days, report to all credit reporting agencies to which the lender previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan; and

(D) Within 30 days, demand payment in full from the perpetrator of the identity theft committed against the individual, and if payment is not received, pursue collection action thereafter against the perpetrator.

(iii) If the agency determines that the borrower does not qualify for a discharge, it shall, within 30 days after making that determination—

(A) Notify the lender that the borrower's liability on the loan is not discharged and that, depending on the borrower's decision under paragraph (e)(7)(iii)(B) of this section, the loan shall either be returned to the lender or paid as a default claim; and

(B) Notify the borrower that the borrower does not qualify for discharge, and state the reasons for that conclusion. The agency shall advise the borrower that he or she remains obligated to repay the loan and warn the borrower of the consequences of default, and explain that the borrower will be considered to be in default on the loan unless the borrower submits a written statement to the agency within 30 days stating that the borrower—

( 1 ) Acknowledges the debt and, if payments are due, will begin or resume making those payments to the lender; or

( 2 ) Requests the Secretary to review the agency's decision.

(iv) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's written statement described in paragraph (e)(7)(iii)(B)( 1 ) of this section, the agency shall return the claim file to the lender and notify the lender to resume collection efforts if payments are due.

(v) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's request for review by the Secretary, the agency shall forward the claim file to the Secretary for his review and take the actions required under paragraph (e)(11) of this section.

(vi) The agency shall pay a default claim to the lender within 30 days after the borrower fails to return either of the written statements described in paragraph (e)(7)(iii)(B) of this section.

(8) Guaranty agency responsibilities with respect to a claim filed by a lender based only on the borrower's assertion that he or she did not sign the loan check or the authorization for the release of loan funds via electronic funds transfer or master check. (i) The agency shall evaluate the borrower's request and consider relevant information it possesses and information available from other sources, and follow the procedures described in paragraph (e)(8) of this section.

(ii) If the agency determines that a borrower who asserts that he or she did not endorse the loan check satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (e)(3)(iv) of this section, it shall, within 30 days after making that determination—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender has been informed of the actions required under paragraph (e)(8)(ii)(B) of this section;

(B) Notify the lender that the borrower's liability with respect to the amount of the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender must—

( 1 ) Immediately terminate any collection efforts against the borrower with respect to the discharged loan amount and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the lender related to the discharged loan amount that the borrower is, or was, otherwise obligated to pay;

( 2 ) Within 30 days, report to all credit reporting agencies to which the lender previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan;

( 3 ) Refund to the borrower, within 30 days, all amounts paid by the borrower with respect to the loan disbursement that was discharged, including any charges imposed or costs incurred by the lender related to the discharged loan amount; and

( 4 ) Refund to the Secretary, within 30 days, all interest benefits and special allowance payments received from the Secretary with respect to the loan disbursement that was discharged; and

(C) Transfer to the lender the borrower's written assignment of any rights the borrower may have against third parties with respect to a loan disbursement that was discharged because the borrower did not sign the loan check.

(iii) If the agency determines that a borrower who asserts that he or she did not sign the electronic funds transfer or master check authorization satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (e)(3)(iv) of this section, it shall, within 30 days after making that determination, pay the claim in accordance with §682.402(h) and—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender has been informed of the actions required under paragraph (e)(8)(iii)(C) of this section;

(B) Refund to the borrower all amounts paid by the borrower to the lender or the agency with respect to the discharged loan amount, including any late fees or collection charges imposed by the lender or agency related to the discharged loan amount; and

(C) Notify the lender that the borrower's liability with respect to the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged, and that the lender must—

( 1 ) Immediately terminate any collection efforts against the borrower with respect to the discharged loan amount and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the lender related to the discharged loan amount that the borrower is, or was, otherwise obligated to pay; and

( 2 ) Within 30 days, report to all credit reporting agencies to which the lender previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan.

(iv) If the agency determines that the borrower does not qualify for a discharge, it shall, within 30 days after making that determination—

(A) Notify the lender that the borrower's liability on the loan is not discharged and that, depending on the borrower's decision under paragraph (e)(8)(iv)(B) of this section, the loan shall either be returned to the lender or paid as a default claim; and

(B) Notify the borrower that the borrower does not qualify for discharge, and state the reasons for that conclusion. The agency shall advise the borrower that he or she remains obligated to repay the loan and warn the borrower of the consequences of default, and explain that the borrower will be considered to be in default on the loan unless the borrower submits a written statement to the agency within 30 days stating that the borrower—

( 1 ) Acknowledges the debt and, if payments are due, will begin or resume making those payments to the lender; or

( 2 ) Requests the Secretary to review the agency's decision.

(v) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's written statement described in paragraph (e)(8)(iv)(B)( 1 ) of this section, the agency shall return the claim file to the lender and notify the lender to resume collection efforts if payments are due.

(vi) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's request for review by the Secretary, the agency shall forward the claim file to the Secretary for his review and take the actions required under paragraph (e)(11) of this section.

(vii) The agency shall pay a default claim to the lender within 30 days after the borrower fails to return either of the written statements described in paragraph (e)(8)(iv)(B) of this section.

(9) Guaranty agency responsibilities in the case of a loan held by the agency for which a discharge request is submitted by a borrower based on the borrower's assertion that he or she did not sign the loan application or the promissory note, that he or she was a victim of the crime of identity theft, or that the school failed to test, or improperly tested, the student's ability to benefit. (i) The agency shall evaluate the borrower's request and consider relevant information it possesses and information available from other sources, and follow the procedures described in paragraph (e)(9) of this section.

(ii) If the agency determines that the borrower satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (e)(3) of this section, it shall immediately terminate any collection efforts against the borrower with respect to the discharged loan amount and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the agency related to the discharged loan amount that the borrower is, or was otherwise obligated to pay and, not later than 30 days after the agency makes the determination that the borrower satisfies the requirements for discharge—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the loan has been discharged;

(B) Report to all credit reporting agencies to which the agency previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan;

(C) Refund to the borrower all amounts paid by the borrower to the lender or the agency with respect to the discharged loan amount, including any late fees or collection charges imposed by the lender or agency related to the discharged loan amount; and

(D) Within 30 days, demand payment in full from the perpetrator of the identity theft committed against the individual, and if payment is not received, pursue collection action thereafter against the perpetrator.

(iii) If the agency determines that the borrower does not qualify for a discharge, it shall, within 30 days after making that determination, notify the borrower that the borrower's liability with respect to the amount of the loan is not discharged, state the reasons for that conclusion, and if the borrower is not then making payments in accordance with a repayment arrangement with the agency on the loan, advise the borrower of the consequences of continued failure to reach such an arrangement, and that collection action will resume on the loan unless within 30 days the borrower—

(A) Acknowledges the debt and, if payments are due, reaches a satisfactory arrangement to repay the loan or resumes making payments under such an arrangement to the agency; or

(B) Requests the Secretary to review the agency's decision.

(iv) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's request for review by the Secretary, the agency shall forward the borrower's discharge request and all relevant documentation to the Secretary for his review and take the actions required under paragraph (e)(11) of this section.

(v) The agency shall resume collection action if within 30 days of giving notice of its determination the borrower fails to seek review by the Secretary or agree to repay the loan.

(10) Guaranty agency responsibilities in the case of a loan held by the agency for which a discharge request is submitted by a borrower based only on the borrower's assertion that he or she did not sign the loan check or the authorization for the release of loan proceeds via electronic funds transfer or master check. (i) The agency shall evaluate the borrower's request and consider relevant information it possesses and information available from other sources, and follow the procedures described in paragraph (e)(10) of this section.

(ii) If the agency determines that a borrower who asserts that he or she did not endorse the loan check satisfies the requirements for discharge under paragraph (e)(3)(iv) of this section, it shall refund to the Secretary the amount of reinsurance payment received with respect to the amount discharged on that loan less any repayments made by the lender under paragraph (e)(10)(ii)(D)( 2 ) of this section, and within 30 days after making that determination—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged;

(B) Report to all credit reporting agencies to which the agency previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan;

(C) Refund to the borrower all amounts paid by the borrower to the lender or the agency with respect to the discharged loan amount, including any late fees or collection charges imposed by the lender or agency related to the discharged loan amount;

(D) Notify the lender to whom a claim payment was made that the lender must refund to the Secretary, within 30 days—

( 1 ) All interest benefits and special allowance payments received from the Secretary with respect to the loan disbursement that was discharged; and

( 2 ) The amount of the borrower's payments that were refunded to the borrower by the guaranty agency under paragraph (e)(10)(ii)(C) of this section that represent borrower payments previously paid to the lender with respect to the loan disbursement that was discharged;

(E) Notify the lender to whom a claim payment was made that the lender must, within 30 days, reimburse the agency for the amount of the loan that was discharged, minus the amount of borrower payments made to the lender that were refunded to the borrower by the guaranty agency under paragraph (e)(10)(ii)(C) of this section; and

(F) Transfer to the lender the borrower's written assignment of any rights the borrower may have against third parties with respect to the loan disbursement that was discharged.

(iii) In the case of a borrower who requests a discharge because he or she did not sign the electronic funds transfer or master check authorization, if the agency determines that the borrower meets the conditions for discharge, it shall immediately terminate any collection efforts against the borrower with respect to the discharged loan amount and any charges imposed or costs incurred by the agency related to the discharged loan amount that the borrower is, or was, otherwise obligated to pay, and within 30 days after making that determination—

(A) Notify the borrower that his or her liability with respect to the amount of the contested disbursement of the loan has been discharged;

(B) Refund to the borrower all amounts paid by the borrower to the lender or the agency with respect to the discharged loan amount, including any late fees or collection charges imposed by the lender or agency related to the discharged loan amount; and

(C) Report to all credit reporting agencies to which the lender previously reported the status of the loan, so as to delete all adverse credit history assigned to the loan.

(iv) The agency shall take the actions required under paragraphs (e)(9) (iii) through (v) if the agency determines that the borrower does not qualify for a discharge.

(11) Guaranty agency responsibilities if a borrower requests a review by the Secretary. (i) Within 30 days after receiving the borrower's request for review under paragraph (e)(7)(iii)(B)( 2 ), (e)(8)(iv)(B)( 2 ), (e)(9)(iii)(B), or (e)(10)(iv) of this section, the agency shall forward the borrower's discharge request and all relevant documentation to the Secretary for his review.

(ii) The Secretary notifies the agency and the borrower of a determination on review. If the Secretary determines that the borrower is not eligible for a discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, within 30 days after being so informed, the agency shall take the actions described in paragraphs (e)(8) (iv) through (vii) or (e)(9)(iii) through (v) of this section, as applicable.

(iii) If the Secretary determines that the borrower meets the requirements for a discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, the agency shall, within 30 days after being so informed, take the actions required under paragraph (e)(7)(ii), (e)(8)(ii), (e)(8)(iii), (e)(9)(ii), (e)(10)(ii), or (e)(10)(iii) of this section, as applicable.

(12) Lender Responsibilities. (i) If the lender is notified by a guaranty agency or the Secretary, or receives information it believes to be reliable from another source indicating that a current or former borrower may be eligible for a discharge under paragraph (e) of this section, the lender shall immediately suspend any efforts to collect from the borrower on any loan received for the program of study for which the loan was made (but may continue to receive borrower payments) and, within 30 days of receiving the information or notification, inform the borrower of the procedures for requesting a discharge.

(ii) If the borrower fails to submit the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section within 60 days of being notified of that option, the lender shall resume collection and shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date the lender suspended collection activity. The lender may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(iii) The lender shall file a claim with the guaranty agency in accordance with §682.402(g) no later than 60 days after the lender receives the borrower's written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section. If a lender receives a payment made by or on behalf of the borrower on the loan after the lender files a claim on the loan with the guaranty agency, the lender shall forward the payment to the guaranty agency within 30 days of its receipt. The lender shall assist the guaranty agency and the borrower in determining whether the borrower is eligible for discharge of the loan.

(iv) The lender shall comply with all instructions received from the Secretary or a guaranty agency with respect to loan discharges under paragraph (e) of this section.

(v) The lender shall review a claim that the borrower did not endorse and did not receive the proceeds of a loan check. The lender shall take the actions required under paragraphs (e)(8)(ii)(A) and (B) of this section if it determines that the borrower did not endorse the loan check, unless the lender secures persuasive evidence that the proceeds of the loan were received by the borrower or the student for whom the loan was made, as provided in paragraph (e)(1)(ii). If the lender determines that the loan check was properly endorsed or the proceeds were received by the borrower or student, the lender may consider the borrower's objection to repayment as a statement of intention not to repay the loan, and may file a claim with the guaranty agency for reimbursement on that ground, but shall not report the loan to credit bureaus as in default until the guaranty agency, or, as applicable, the Secretary, reviews the claim for relief. By filing such a claim, the lender shall be deemed to have agreed to the following—

(A) If the guarantor or the Secretary determines that the borrower endorsed the loan check or the proceeds of the loan were received by the borrower or the student, any failure to satisfy due diligence requirements by the lender prior to the filing of the claim that would have resulted in the loss of reinsurance on the loan in the event of default will be waived by the Secretary; and

(B) If the guarantor or the Secretary determines that the borrower did not endorse the loan check and that the proceeds of the loan were not received by the borrower or the student, the lender will comply with the requirements specified in paragraph (e)(8)(ii)(B) of this section.

(vi) Within 30 days after being notified by the guaranty agency that the borrower's request for a discharge has been denied, the lender shall notify the borrower of the reasons for the denial and, if payments are due, resume collection against the borrower. The lender shall be deemed to have exercised forbearance of payment of principal and interest from the date the lender suspended collection activity, and may capitalize, in accordance with §682.202(b), any interest accrued and not paid during that period.

(13) Requirements for certifying a borrower's eligibility for a loan. (i) For periods of enrollment beginning between July 1, 1987 and June 30, 1991, a student who had a general education diploma or received one before the scheduled completion of the program of instruction is deemed to have the ability to benefit from the training offered by the school.

(ii) A student not described in paragraph (e)(13)(i) of this section is considered to have the ability to benefit from training offered by the school if the student—

(A) For periods of enrollment beginning prior to July 1, 1987, was determined to have the ability to benefit from the school's training in accordance with the requirements of 34 CFR 668.6, as in existence at the time the determination was made;

(B) For periods of enrollment beginning between July 1, 1987 and June 30, 1996, achieved a passing grade on a test—

( 1 ) Approved by the Secretary, for periods of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 1991, or by the accrediting agency for other periods; and

( 2 ) Administered substantially in accordance with the requirements for use of the test;

(C) Successfully completed a program of developmental or remedial education provided by the school; or

(D) For periods of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 1996 through June 30, 2000—

( 1 ) Obtained, within 12 months before the date the student initially receives title IV, HEA program assistance, a passing score specified by the Secretary on an independently administered test in accordance with subpart J of 34 CFR part 668; or

( 2 ) Enrolled in an eligible institution that participates in a State process approved by the Secretary under subpart J of 34 CFR part 668.

(E) For periods of enrollment beginning on or after July 1, 2000—

( 1 ) Met either of the conditions described in paragraph (e)(13)(ii)(D) of this section; or

( 2 ) Was home schooled and met the requirements of 34 CFR 668.32(e)(4).

(iii) Notwithstanding paragraphs (e)(13)(i) and (ii) of this section, a student did not have the ability to benefit from training offered by the school if—

(A) The school certified the eligibility of the student for a FFEL Program loan; and

(B) At the time of certification, the student would not meet the requirements for employment (in the student's State of residence) in the occupation for which the training program supported by the loan was intended because of a physical or mental condition, age, or criminal record or other reason accepted by the Secretary.

(iv) Notwithstanding paragraphs (e)(13)(i) and (ii) of this section, a student has the ability to benefit from the training offered by the school if the student received a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent prior to enrollment at the school.

(14) Identity theft. (i) The unauthorized use of the identifying information of another individual that is punishable under 18 U.S.C. 1028, 1029, or 1030, or substantially comparable State or local law.

(ii) Identifying information includes, but is not limited to—

(A) Name, Social Security number, date of birth, official State or government issued driver's license or identification number, alien registration number, government passport number, and employer or taxpayer identification number;

(B) Unique biometric data, such as fingerprints, voiceprint, retina or iris image, or unique physical representation;

(C) Unique electronic identification number, address, or routing code; or

(D) Telecommunication identifying information or access device (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 1029(e)).

(15) Discharge without an application. A borrower's obligation to repay all or a portion of an FFEL Program loan may be discharged without an application from the borrower if the Secretary, or the guaranty agency with the Secretary's permission, determines that the borrower qualifies for a discharge based on information in the Secretary or guaranty agency's possession.

(f) Bankruptcy —(1) General. If a borrower files a petition for relief under the Bankruptcy Code, the Secretary reimburses the holder of the loan for unpaid principal and interest on the loan in accordance with paragraphs (h) through (k) of this section.

(2) Suspension of collection activity. (i) If the lender is notified that a borrower has filed a petition for relief in bankruptcy, the lender must immediately suspend any collection efforts outside the bankruptcy proceeding against the borrower and—

(A) Must suspend any collection efforts against any co-maker or endorser if the borrower has filed for relief under Chapters 12 or 13 of the Bankruptcy Code; or

(B) May suspend any collection efforts against any co-maker or endorser if the borrower has filed for relief under Chapters 7 or 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

(ii) If the lender is notified that a co-maker or endorser has filed a petition for relief in bankruptcy, the lender must immediately suspend any collection efforts outside the bankruptcy proceeding against the co-maker or endorser and—

(A) Must suspend collection efforts against the borrower and any other parties to the note if the co-maker or endorser has filed for relief under Chapters 12 or 13 of the Bankruptcy Code; or

(B) May suspend any collection efforts against the borrower and any other parties to the note if the co-maker or endorser has filed for relief under Chapters 7 or 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

(3) Determination of filing. The lender must determine that a borrower has filed a petition for relief in bankruptcy on the basis of receiving a notice of the first meeting of creditors or other proof of filing provided by the debtor's attorney or the bankruptcy court.

(4) Proof of claim. (i) Except as provided in paragraph (f)(4)(ii) of this section, the holder of the loan shall file a proof of claim with the bankruptcy court within—

(A) 30 days after the holder receives a notice of first meeting of creditors unless, in the case of a proceeding under chapter 7, the notice states that the borrower has no assets; or

(B) 30 days after the holder receives a notice from the court stating that a chapter 7 no-asset case has been converted to an asset case.

(ii) A guaranty agency that is a state guaranty agency, and on that basis may assert immunity from suit in bankruptcy court, and that does not assign any loans affected by a bankruptcy filing to another guaranty agency—

(A) Is not required to file a proof of claim on a loan already held by the guaranty agency; and

(B) May direct lenders not to file proofs of claim on loans guaranteed by that agency.

(5) Filing of bankruptcy claim with the guaranty agency. (i) The lender shall file a bankruptcy claim on the loan with the guaranty agency in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section, if—

(A) The borrower has filed a petition for relief under chapters 12 or 13 of the Bankruptcy Code; or

(B) The borrower has filed a petition for relief under chapters 7 or 11 of the Bankruptcy Code before October 8, 1998 and the loan has been in repayment for more than seven years (exclusive of any applicable suspension of the repayment period) from the due date of the first payment until the date of the filing of the petition for relief; or

(C) The borrower has begun an action to have the loan obligation determined to be dischargeable on grounds of undue hardship.

(ii) In cases not described in paragraph (f)(5)(i) of this section, the lender shall continue to hold the loan notwithstanding the bankruptcy proceeding. Once the bankruptcy proceeding is completed or dismissed, the lender shall treat the loan as if the lender had exercised forbearance as to repayment of principal and interest accrued from the date of the borrower's filing of the bankruptcy petition until the date the lender is notified that the bankruptcy proceeding is completed or dismissed.

(g) Claim procedures for a loan held by a lender —(1) Documentation. A lender shall provide the guaranty agency with the following documentation when filing a death, disability, closed school, false certification, or bankruptcy claim:

(i) The original or a true and exact copy of the promissory note.

(ii) The loan application, if a separate loan application was provided to the lender.

(iii) In the case of a death claim, an original or certified death certificate, or other documentation supporting the discharge request that formed the basis for the determination of death.

(iv) In the case of a disability claim, a copy of the certification of disability described in paragraph (c)(2) of this section.

(v) In the case of a bankruptcy claim—

(A) Evidence that a bankruptcy petition has been filed, all pertinent documents sent to or received from the bankruptcy court by the lender, and an assignment to the guaranty agency of any proof of claim filed by the lender regarding the loan; and

(B) A statement of any facts of which the lender is aware that may form the basis for an objection or exception to the discharge of the borrower's loan obligation in bankruptcy and all documents supporting those facts.

(vi) In the case of a closed school claim, the documentation described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section, or any other documentation as the Secretary may require;

(vii) In the case of a false certification claim, the documentation described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section.

(2) Filing deadlines. A lender shall file a death, disability, closed school, false certification, or bankruptcy claim within the following periods:

(i) Within 60 days of the date on which the lender determines that a borrower (or the student on whose behalf a parent obtained a PLUS loan) has died, or the lender determines that the borrower is totally and permanently disabled.

(ii) In the case of a closed school claim, the lender shall file a claim with the guaranty agency no later than 60 days after the borrower submits to the lender the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (d)(3) of this section or after the lender is notified by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee or by the guaranty agency to do so.

(iii) In the case of a false certification claim, the lender shall file a claim with the guaranty agency no later than 60 days after the borrower submits to the lender the written request and sworn statement described in paragraph (e)(3) of this section or after the lender is notified by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee or by the guaranty agency to do so.

(iv) A lender shall file a bankruptcy claim with the guaranty agency by the earlier of—

(A) 30 days after the date on which the lender receives notice of the first meeting of creditors or other information described in paragraph (f)(3) of this section; or

(B) 15 days after the lender is served with a complaint or motion to have the loan determined to be dischargeable on grounds of undue hardship, or, if the lender secures an extension of time within which an answer may be filed, 25 days before the expiration of that extended period, whichever is later.

(h) Payment of death, disability, closed school, false certification, and bankruptcy claims by the guaranty agency —(1) General. (i) The guaranty agency shall review a death, disability, bankruptcy, closed school, or false certification claim promptly and shall pay the lender on an approved claim the amount of loss in accordance with paragraphs (h)(2) and (h)(3) of this section—

(A) Not later than 45 days after the claim was filed by the lender for death and bankruptcy claims; and

(B) Not later than 90 days after the claim was filed by the lender for disability, closed school, or false certification claims.

(ii) In the case of a bankruptcy claim, the guaranty agency shall, upon receipt of the claim from the lender, immediately take those actions required under paragraph (i) of this section to oppose the discharge of the loan by the bankruptcy court.

(iii) In the case of a closed school claim or a false certification claim based on the determination that the borrower did not sign the loan application, the promissory note, or the authorization for the electronic transfer of loan funds, or that the school failed to test, or improperly tested, the student's ability to benefit, the guaranty agency shall document its determination that the borrower is eligible for discharge under paragraphs (d) or (e) of this section and pay the borrower or the holder the amount determined under paragraph (h)(2) of this section.

(iv) In reviewing a claim under this section, the issue of confirmation of subsequent loans under an MPN will not be reviewed and a claim will not be denied based on the absence of any evidence relating to confirmation in a particular loan file. However, if a court rules that a loan is unenforceable solely because of the lack of evidence of the confirmation process or processes, insurance benefits must be repaid.

(2)(i) The amount of loss payable—

(A) On a death or disability claim is equal to the sum of the remaining principal balance and interest accrued on the loan, collection costs incurred by the lender and applied to the borrower's account within 30 days of the date those costs were actually incurred, and unpaid interest up to the date the lender should have filed the claim.

(B) On a bankruptcy claim is equal to the unpaid balance of principal and interest determined in accordance with paragraph (h)(3) of this section.

(ii) The amount of loss payable to a lender on a closed school