Deferment vs. Forbearance Cost Calculator

For U.S. Federal Student Loans. This tool estimates the potential cost of interest accrual and capitalization. It is not financial advice.

Subsidized Federal Loan Balance ($) Enter 0 if none.

Annual Interest Rate for Subsidized Loans (%) If balance > 0.

Unsubsidized & PLUS Loan Balance ($) Enter 0 if none.

Annual Interest Rate for Unsubsidized/PLUS Loans (%) If balance > 0.

Duration of Deferment/Forbearance (Months) *

Pay Accrued Interest During This Period? *

Feature	Deferment	Forbearance
Interest on Subsidized Loans?	Government typically pays (no accrual for borrower).	Interest accrues and is borrower's responsibility.
Interest on Unsubsidized & PLUS Loans?	Interest accrues and is borrower's responsibility.	Interest accrues and is borrower's responsibility.
Interest Capitalization?	Accrued interest (on Unsubsidized/PLUS) typically capitalizes if unpaid at end of deferment.	Accrued interest typically capitalizes if unpaid at end of forbearance.
Eligibility Basis	Specific criteria (e.g., economic hardship, unemployment, in-school). May be limited.	Can be general (discretionary) or mandatory. Often more accessible if deferment criteria not met.