I am drowning in student loan debt. Is this debt dischargeable in bankruptcy? 

Traditionally, student loans were not considered a dischargeable debt under federal bankruptcy laws. However, as national student loan debt has skyrocketed into the trillions of dollars, struggling graduates may be able to escape the burden of four-figure monthly payments by successfully proving severe financial hardship. As well, there are a number of less common avenues through which student loan debt may be discharged, which could be a financial life-saver for those meeting eligibility criteria. 

Three-prong undue hardship test

Under current consumer bankruptcy law, there is a three-part test to determine if a student loan is dischargeable based on undue hardship. First, you must prove that, if forced to repay the loan under its minimum payment terms, you would be unable to maintain a minimum standard of living. While the phrase “minimum standard of living” has not been officially defined in the bankruptcy code, it is generally considered to mean the financial ability to maintain adequate housing and meet daily needs for the borrower and his or her dependents. 

Second, the borrower must show that the inability to maintain a minimum standard of living is not temporary in nature, and is likely to continue throughout the duration of the loan repayment period. Lastly, discharge may be possible if you have made a true good faith effort to repay the loan prior to filing for bankruptcy – which means a period of at least five years. 

Known as the Brunner test, this three-prong analysis looks for poverty, persistence, and good faith – and may be a good option for borrowers who have tried, but are simply unable, to repay that those looming and unrelenting education debts. 

Other options

As a debtor, there may be other options for avoiding student loan repayment, primarily if your alma mater is involved in any kind of investigation for fraud or consumer deceit. In some instances, students have earned relief from part or all of their student loans by successfully highlighting their school’s false promises or exaggerated graduation/employment rates – thereby triggering a consumer protection or breach of contract action. 

If you are struggling with student and consumer debt, please contact Miami Valley bankruptcy attorneys at Cox, Keller & Lusardi right away.  You can reach our office, conveniently located in Xenia, Ohio, by calling (937)262-4789 today.