Are you struggling to make your loan payments? Do you find yourself falling behind on your bills and wondering how you’ll make ends meet? If so, loan deferment may be the solution you’ve been looking for.
With the ability to pause your loan payments temporarily, loan deferment can provide much-needed relief during financial hardship. But how does loan deferment work?
In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of loan deferment, including what it is, how it works, and when it is the right option for you. Keep reading to learn more!
Financial Hardships and Personal Loan Payments
Before we dive into loan deferment, let’s take a moment to acknowledge the reality of financial hardships. Life is unpredictable; sometimes, despite people’s best efforts, some struggle to make ends meet.
If you struggle to keep up with your loan payments, know you’re not alone. Missing payments can happen to anyone. And it does not reflect your worth or ability to manage your finances.
However, taking action as soon as possible is crucial to avoid damaging your credit score or incurring late fees.
What is Loan Deferment?
Loan deferment is an arrangement between you and your lender that allows you to pause loan payments temporarily. You don’t have to make any payments during the deferment period, and your loan may continue to accrue interest.
The length of the deferment period varies depending on the type of loan and the lender’s policies. For example, interest may be subsidized during the deferment period for some loans, such as federal student loans. That means the government pays the interest on your behalf.
However, deferred payments typically accrue interest for personal loans. Therefore, you’ll have to pay the interest accrued during the deferment period once you resume making payments.
When to Consider Personal Loan Deferment
There are several situations in which you might consider personal loan deferment. Some common reasons include the following:
Loss of income: If you’ve lost your job or experienced a significant reduction in income, loan deferment can help you avoid missing payments or keep you from defaulting on your loan.
Medical emergency: If you or a family member has a medical emergency that requires costly treatment, loan deferment can help you focus on your health without worrying about loan payments.
Natural disaster: If a natural disaster has damaged your home or business, loan deferment can provide temporary relief while you recover.
Military deployment: If you’re called to active military duty, loan deferment can help ease the financial burden while serving your country.
Unexpected expenses: If you’re facing unexpected costs, such as a major car repair or a home repair, loan deferment can provide some breathing room while you figure out how to cover the expenses.
However, it’s important to note that loan deferment should be a last resort. If you’re experiencing financial difficulties, try negotiating a payment plan with your lender.
Use deferment only if you have exhausted all other options. And use it if you can’t make payments without jeopardizing your financial stability.
How to Request Loan Deferment
If you’ve determined that loan deferment is the right option, the first step is to contact your lender to discuss your situation. Each lender has its own policies regarding loan deferment. So it’s important to understand the specific requirements and procedures.
You must provide documentation of your financial hardship. Documentation includes proof of income loss or medical bills. You’ll also need to specify the time you need for deferment and whether you want to defer all or part of your loan payments.
Once your lender approves your deferment request, you’ll receive confirmation of the deferment period. You won’t have to make any payments. However, remember that interest will continue to accrue during the deferment period.
You’ll be responsible for paying it off once you resume making payments. If you can afford to make interest payments during the deferment period, it may be wise to do so. That will minimize the total interest you’ll owe in the long run.
Missed Payments and Late Fees
If you need help making your personal loan payment and don’t qualify for loan deferment, take action before missing payments or incurring late fees. Late payments can negatively impact your credit score. That makes it harder to be eligible for loans in the future.
Lenders may also charge late fees or penalties for missed payments. That can add up over time, making catching up on your costs even more challenging.
If you’re having trouble making payments, the best action is to contact your lender as soon as possible. Many lenders are willing to work with borrowers to develop a payment plan that fits their budget. You can also:
- Negotiate a lower monthly payment
- Create a longer repayment term
- Reduce the interest rate.
And depending on your lender’s policies, you may be able to defer a payment or two without going into deferment.
Taking Action with Loan Deferment
Loan deferment can be a practical option for borrowers experiencing financial difficulties and needing to pause their loan payments temporarily. However, remember that you should only use loan deferment as a last resort and that interest will continue to accrue during the deferment period.
If you’re struggling to make your loan payments, the best course of action is to contact your lender as soon as possible to explore your options. With open communication and a willingness to work together, you can find a solution that allows you to stay on track with your payments and maintain your financial stability.
If you’re experiencing financial difficulties and are struggling to make your loan payments, don’t wait to take action. Instead, contact us today to explore your options, including loan deferment and other payment plans that may be available to you.