What Happens to Your Great Lakes Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Discharge
Federal loans forgiven at death
Action
Submit certified death certificate
Autopay
Stop immediately
Step-by-Step Guide
Federal loans are discharged at death
Federal student loans are fully forgiven when the borrower dies. Submit a certified death certificate to Great Lakes to begin the discharge.
Estimated time: 15 min
Contact Great Lakes bereavement department
Call Great Lakes and request the bereavement or estate services team. They will guide you through the death discharge process.
Estimated time: 20 min
Check for private loans separately
Private student loans are not automatically discharged at death. Review loan documents carefully — the estate may be liable for private loan balances.
Estimated time: 15 min
Stop autopay immediately
Cancel all automatic payments. Any payments made after the borrower's death can be refunded once the discharge is finalized.
Estimated time: 5 min
Document Now Checklist
- Great Lakes account number
- Loan types (federal vs. private)
- Loan balances
- Autopay status
- Payment method on file
Last verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Great Lakes. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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