If you have a permanent physical or mental impairment that prevents you from working, you may qualify for student loan forgiveness. The Department of Education accepts proof of your disability from a doctor, the Social Security Administration, or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Here are some examples of disabilities that may qualify for student loan forgiveness:

• Stage IV or terminal cancer
• Chronic fibromyalgia
• Degenerative disc disease (severe back pain)
• Major depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

To qualify for a total and permanent disability (TPD) discharge, you must show that you have a disability that severely limits your ability to work, now and in the future. You can qualify for TPD discharge in the following ways:

• Through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
• Through the Social Security Administration (SSA)
• By getting a medical professional to certify Section 4 of your TPD application

If you receive a TPD discharge, you will no longer be required to repay your loans or complete your TEACH Grant service obligation.