In order to obtain Economic Hardship Deferment for federal DIRECT loans, borrowers must either receive some form of government assistance, work full-time while earning less than 150% of the poverty level, or serve in the Peace Corps.
While a deferment application is being processed the borrower must continue to make payments, or request forbearance.
For more information please visit http://studentaid.ed.gov/ or call Direct Loan Servicing (ACS) at 1-800-848-0979.