Introduction
The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is an initiative created by the U.S. government to provide financial assistance to borrowers who pursue careers in public service. Launched in 2007, the program offers the potential to forgive student loans after 10 years of qualified employment and 120 on-time payments.
MOHELA (Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority) is one of the leading loan servicers for the PSLF program. This article provides comprehensive guidance on how to contact MOHELA for PSLF-related inquiries.
How to Contact MOHELA for PSLF
Phone:
- 1-888-866-4352 (TTY: 1-800-730-8913)
Mail:
- MOHELA
- P.O. Box 550124
- St. Louis, MO 63155-0124
Online:
- Log in to your MOHELA account at https://mymohela.com/
- Click on “Contact Us” in the top right corner
- Select “Public Service Loan Forgiveness” and submit your inquiry
PSLF Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for PSLF, borrowers must meet the following requirements:
- Loan Type: Direct Loans (including Direct Consolidation Loans) or federally subsidized Stafford Loans
- Employment: Full-time employment (30 hours per week) in a qualifying public service field
- Payments: 120 on-time payments while employed in public service
- Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plan: Borrowers with federal student loans may need to consolidate their loans and enroll in an IDR plan to qualify for PSLF
Qualifying Public Service Employers
PSLF covers a wide range of public service employers, including:
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
- Schools
- Libraries
- Hospitals
- Military service
PSLF Application Process
To apply for PSLF, borrowers must complete the PSLF Employment Certification Form, which is available on the MOHELA website. The form must be signed by the borrower’s employer and submitted annually.
MOHELA’s Role in PSLF
MOHELA plays a crucial role in the PSLF process by:
- Servicing PSLF-eligible loans
- Processing PSLF applications and certifications
- Corresponding with borrowers about their PSLF status
Tips and Tricks for Contacting MOHELA for PSLF
- Keep detailed records: Document all communications with MOHELA, including dates, phone calls, and emails.
- Be patient: PSLF processing can take time. Allow ample lead time before the expected date of forgiveness.
- Check your eligibility: Review the PSLF eligibility requirements carefully to ensure you qualify.
- Contact MOHELA early: Contact MOHELA as soon as you believe you have met the PSLF requirements.
- Use the online portal: The MOHELA online portal provides a convenient way to submit inquiries and track the status of your PSLF application.
Conclusion
Contacting MOHELA for PSLF inquiries is essential for borrowers seeking student loan forgiveness. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively reach MOHELA and navigate the PSLF process. Remember, the key to successful PSLF eligibility is staying informed, being proactive, and maintaining open communication with MOHELA.
