
Do I have to pay my student loans if I’m unemployed?
Many lenders have temporary relief options when you’re in a period of unemployment.
About the author
Jennifer is an editor on the Loans team with previous experience as an editor in the education space on BestColleges.com. She is committed to helping writers develop impactful stories that help guide readers at any stage of their financial journey.
Prior to working as an editor, Jennifer spent almost 8 years working in South Korea in the education sector, where she learned how to be extra frugal so she could continue saving enough money to pay off her student loans and save for her future home. This kickstarted both her passion for helping others take control of their finances and her love of cooking.
On the side, Jennifer likes to write reviews for an independent Seattle publication. She also likes to read, watch witty comedy, run and cycle, travel to visit friends and teach herself the violin. Her friends call her a foodie, and she will find any excuse to eat good food with good company.
Jennifer wants you to know
I feel like the word frugal has a bad rap these days. People seem to associate it with being poor, but this is what I have done since I was 21 and bought a place on my own when I was 40. Budgeting and saving with a lot of patience can go a long way to achieving big financial goals.
Many lenders have temporary relief options when you’re in a period of unemployment.
Firstmark is a division of Nelnet, but it services only private student loans.
The application for the 2025-26 academic year closes on June 30, 2026.
Here’s how much of your salary could go toward student loan payments.
The right parent student loan depends on your priorities and financial situation.
The promise of massive student loan forgiveness may have set up students for financial failure.
Sometimes it’s possible to regain financial aid – but not always.
The main difference between the two loan types comes down to who pays interest.