Since the government is temporarily suspending student loan payments, I was wondering if I could go ahead and file now even thou I have one more payment to make to get my student loans out of default

Expert Alumni

Mar 21, 2020 2:34:34 PM

If you are worried that your refund will be offset then you can call Bureau of the Fiscal Service TOP call center for information at 800-304-3107 (or TTY/TDD 866-297-0517), Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.

What is a refund offset?

A refund offset is when an IRS refund is reduced or intercepted to pay off delinquent debt, such as past-due child support, outstanding student loans, or unpaid state income tax.

You'll get an explanatory letter from the Bureau of the Fiscal Service if your refund is offset. The remainder of your refund will be processed as usual. An offset shouldn't delay it, unless your entire refund was applied to your debt.

Level 15

Mar 21, 2020 5:18:32 PM

it's really a little unclear what the rules are going to be.

here is one article that you might read. .....

https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-to-suspend-your-student-loan-payments-11584799200

terminology is critical as this article states "They don’t apply to loans in default, which means payments are 270 or more days late."

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Since the government is temporarily suspending student loan payments, I was wondering if I could go ahead and file now even thou I have one more payment to make to get my student loans out of default