1099-C Student loan forgiveness- considered income parents plus loan when student dies

[pertra8]

My son passed away in 2017. My husband signed on Parents Plus loan for his education. The loan was discharged after he passed but we received a 1099-C. Do we have to claim this as income?

[LindaA]

Yes, I'm very sorry but you do need to report the forgiven debt on your tax return because your husband was obligated to pay back the Parent PLUS loan. This is such a sad situation and Congress could act to make things easier for grieving families, but they have not done so. 

[Mrs_A]

Sorry for ur loss