Loan Deferment - How to Skip Loan Payments Without Destroying Credit

Loan deferment is a special financing alternative that lets borrowers skip a payment without receiving derogatory credit reporting. The option to defer payments is available for most types of loans including mortgage, auto, credit cards, and student loans. Debtors must obtain lender approval and abide by deferment policies.

The loan deferment process involves contacting the lender, submitting a deferment application, and undergoing the application process. The actual process can vary by lender. Other factors taken into account include the borrower's credit history, type of loan, and number of payments being deferred. Approval can take less than 24 hours to several weeks.

Borrowers should create a folder to store loan document records, along with a record of phone and email correspondence. Always keep track of phone conversations by writing down a summary of the call, date, time, and name of the bank representative spoken with. When important documents are mailed, invest in the extra protection of tracking receipts. Certified letters should be sent with a return receipt request in case it is necessary to provide evidence the documents were received.

Deferred payments are usually placed at the end of the loan and payment terms extended. The type of loan is a contributing factor as to how many payments can be skipped. On average, lenders allow borrowers two to three months to resolve financial setbacks.

Lenders may require borrowers to submit a financial letter of hardship which explains the circumstances causing them to require a loan deferment. Hardship letters are usually required with federal student loans and real estate transactions such as loan modifications.

Students attending college at least half-time can apply for in-school deferment. This option is sometimes available to post graduates who have entered into college loan consolidation. In-school deferment is only available to students enrolled in or graduated from accredited schools and cannot be used for online education tuition.

It is important to note that some banks do report deferred payments as delinquent. Therefore, it is crucial to ask lenders how they report to credit bureaus before entering into a contract. Payments reported as past due can reduce FICO scores. Depending on credit scores, a reduction of ten points can place debtors in a lower credit category; making it difficult to obtain credit in the future.

It is best to obtain a real estate forbearance agreement when deferring mortgage payments. Forbearance agreements prohibit lenders from commencing with foreclosure action unless borrowers' default on the contract. This is of particular importance when obtaining mortgage deferment to prevent foreclosure.

Always obtain loan agreements in writing and read the fine print. One of the biggest mistakes borrowers make is entering into verbal agreements. If things go wrong there is no evidence to prove the case. Debtors should know the number of deferred payments, payment schedule, fees or penalties, and how the lender reports suspended payments to credit bureaus.

Loan deferment can help borrowers get back on their feet, but can sometimes include credit blemishes. Take time to understand the advantages and disadvantages; obtain the contract in writing; and adhere to the terms to ensure a successful outcome.