New Pushes to Make Student Loans Dischargeable Under Bankruptcy

March 11, 2015

New Pushes to Make Student Loans Dischargeable Under Bankruptcy

Would forgiving student loans during bankruptcy provide relief to millions of Americans shouldering debt from college? That is the question several lawmakers and even the White House are considering this year. In the last few months, congressmen and the White House have both publicly recognized that a new change in bankruptcy law may be called for.

In January, Representative John Delaney of Maryland proposed the Discharge Student Loans in Bankruptcy Act, H.R. 499. This bill would effectively forgive student loan debt under a bankruptcy filing. According to Representative Delaney’s website: “”Student loan debt is dragging down economic growth, keeping the American Dream out of reach for many and is a monthly strain for millions. While student loan debt is a complex problem that will require many solutions… we also need to reform our laws to help those with the absolute greatest need.”

Representative Delaney’s website also links to a study by The Institute of College Access & Success called “Student Debt and the Class of 2013”. The study found:

  • 69% of 2013 graduates has student debt
  • The national average for student debt is $28,400
  • The average student debt in New York is $26,381

Expansion of Bankruptcy Laws

Just this week, President Obama revealed that his administration is looking into just how effective making student loans dischargeable during bankruptcy would be in providing relief for borrowers. According to the Wall Street Journal, federal loans make up about 90% of all student loans in America, but the White House is looking into measures that would affect all student loans, even those from private lenders.

Still, even those hopeful for this expansion of bankruptcy law are skeptical that any of it will come to pass. Not only would the president and Representative Delaney’s proposals face a Republican-controlled Congress, but many are doubtful that filing for bankruptcy would be a viable option for those struggling with student loans. Even more concerning for some is that a change in bankruptcy law would not affect the principle cause for student over-borrowing: rising tuition fees.

If you are facing significant financial strain and want to explore how bankruptcy could provide you relief, then we invite you to contact Jacoby & Jacoby. Our legal team has accumulated more than half a century of bankruptcy law experience and is ready to help you explore your financial options during this difficult time.

Call us today to schedule a free case evaluation.

Why Choose Jacoby & Jacoby?

Experienced and Qualified Representation

When you work with a New York bankruptcy lawyer at Jacoby & Jacoby, you have the benefit of our years of experience and our extensive resources, all at your disposal as you face these trying times. The stress and emotions associated with mounting debt may leave you feeling hopeless and lost. Thankfully, with the help of a lawyer at our firm, you can begin to take control of your finances and experience much needed relief.

By discussing your situation with an attorney at our firm, you can decide whether bankruptcy is right for you. You can learn what your options are. When you work with an experienced attorney at Jacoby & Jacoby, you will have the support and legal counsel of a professional who will know what to do to help. Finally, you can experience relief from creditors. You can stop worrying about losing your possessions or your home.

Contact our firm today, and learn more about the many ways that we can come to your aid. Call Jacoby & Jacoby at (888)452-2629.

  • NACBA logo
  • NYSBA logo
  • SCBA logo
  • NYSTLA logo

Schedule a Free Consultation

Schedule your FREE bankruptcy evaluation at (888)452-2629

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

  • Suffolk County Offices

  • Medford Main Office

    1737 North Ocean Avenue
    Medford, NY 11763

    (631)289-4600

  • Shirley Office

    450 William Floyd Parkway, Suite B
    Shirely, NY 11967

    (631)281-2234

  • Bohemia Office

    80 Orville Drive, Suite 100
    Bohemia, NY 11716

    (631)289-4600

  • Hauppauge Office

    150 Motor Parkway, Suite 401
    Hauppauge, NY 11788

    (631)289-4600

  • Melville Office

    200 Broadhollow Road, Ste. 207
    Melville, NY 11747

    631-289-4600

  • Riverhead Office

    30 West Main Street
    Riverhead, NY 11901

    (888)452-2629

  • Nassau County Offices

  • East Meadow Main Office

    2545 Hempstead Turnpike, Suite 304
    East Meadow, NY 11554

    (516)396-9318

  • Uniondale Office

    626 Rexcorp. Plaza
    Uniondale, NY 11553

    (516)396-9318

  • Valley Stream Office

    70 East Sunrise Highway, Suite 500
    Valley Stream, NY 11581

    (516)396-9318

  • Queens Office

    Mercury Center
    9-10 Main Street, Suite 300
    Flushing, NY 11354

    (888)452-2629

  • Lake Success Office

    1979 Marcus Avenue, Suite 210E, Lake Success, NY 11020

    (888)452-2629

"We are a designated debt relief agency under Federal Law & we provide legal assistance to consumers seeking relief under the Bankruptcy Code".