False Certification Tips and FAQs
Q: Is there anything I can do to stop collection while I am waiting for a response to a false certification discharge application?
A: Yes. One strategy is to request forbearance. Interest will continue to accrue, but collection will stop. If you want to go back to school before a decision on the discharge is made, you should consider reviewing repayment, loan rehabilitation, and consolidation options. Be careful as some options, such as consolidation, may affect your ability to get a discharge.
Q: Can I borrow to return to school if the decision on my discharge is pending?
A: If you are in default, but you want to go back to school before a decision on the discharge is made, you should consider reviewing repayment, loan rehabilitation, and consolidation options. Be careful as some options, such as consolidation, may affect your ability to get a discharge.
Q: In applying for a false certification ATB discharge, do I have to show that I did not find a job after attending school?
A: No.The government used to require you to do this, but not any more.
Q: Are there different types of false certification discharges?
A: Yes. The main types are 1) Ability to Benefit, 2) Disqualifying Status, 3) Forgery and 4) Identity Theft. The criteria are different for each of these different categories.
Q: Can I get a refund if my false certification application is approved?
A: Yes. If you successfully get a false certification discharge, you should get a refund for any payments made. This includes payments you made voluntarily and payments that the government collected from you through offset or garnishment.