What Happens to Your Federal Student Loans Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Federal
Discharged at death
Private
Check terms — may not discharge
Servicer
studentaid.gov
Step-by-Step Guide
Federal student loans are discharged at death
Federal student loans (Direct, FFEL, Perkins) are fully discharged upon the borrower death. Contact the loan servicer with death certificate. The estate does NOT owe the balance.
Contact loan servicer with death certificate
Find the servicer at studentaid.gov or call 1-800-557-7394. Submit certified death certificate. Discharge is processed in 30-60 days.
Private student loans: check the terms
Private student loans (Sallie Mae, SoFi, Earnest, etc.) may NOT discharge at death. Check the loan agreement. Many require the estate or cosigner to pay.
Warning: Private student loans may NOT be discharged — check terms carefully
Document Now Checklist
- Federal vs private loan type
- Loan servicer name
- Outstanding balance
- Whether cosigner exists
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Federal Student Loans. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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