Overview
A Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge relieves you from the obligation to repay specific student loans. If you qualify, you will no longer be required to pay back the following:
- William D. Ford Federal Direct Loans
- Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL)
- Federal Perkins Loans
- UC San Diego Campus-Based Loans
How to Apply
To receive a TPD discharge, you must submit an application and supporting documentation to Nelnet. Nelnet is the servicer that manages the TPD discharge process on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education.
Qualifying for a TPD Discharge
You must provide documentation from one of the following three sources to show you meet the requirements:
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Provide documentation showing a VA disability determination because you:
- Have a service-connected disability that is 100% disabling; or
- Are totally disabled based on an individual unemployability rating.
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Provide a copy of your SSA notice of award or a Benefits Planning Query showing:
- You are eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI); and
- Your next scheduled disability review will be 5 to 7 years (or more) from the date of your last determination.
Physician Certification
A physician must certify on your application that you are unable to engage in "substantial gainful activity" due to a physical or mental impairment that:
- Can be expected to result in death;
- Has lasted for a continuous period of at least 60 months; or
- Can be expected to last for a continuous period of at least 60 months.
Next Steps
- Visit the TPD Website: Learn more and start your application at the official TPD Discharge website.
- Notify Your Servicers: Inform Nelnet and any campus-based loan holders that you are applying for a discharge.
- Submit Documentation: Ensure all medical or agency records are complete to avoid processing delays.