What to check before counting on PSLF buyback.
An option with specific eligibility rules, not a promise that every pause will count.
Start with eligibility
The buyback opportunity generally requires 120 months of qualifying employment already on record and enough eligible months to reach forgiveness through buyback. Federal Student Aid manages the process.
Verify the exact months
Loan and consolidation history, repayment-plan rules, and the type of deferment or forbearance matter. Review current federal guidance before consolidating or assuming a paused month can be purchased.
Keep a separate record
Distinguish certified employment, qualifying payments, and months under review. Do not treat a request as approved or assume an estimated buyback amount is your actual offer.
Go to the source
MOHELA · PSLF information ↗Federal Student Aid · PSLF questions ↗Rules and account details can change. Official sources determine eligibility; this page does not.