How to release a student loan cosigner

Key takeaways

Cosigners are responsible for repaying student loans if you, the student, cannot do so on your own.
Releasing your cosigner means they are no longer responsible for repayment of your loans.
Some private loans allow you to remove the cosigner after you've made a certain number of on-time payments.

A student loan cosigner is someone who agrees to take responsibility for repayment if you are unable to. This is often a parent, legal guardian or family member. A cosigner with strong credit may help you qualify for a lower interest rate, which can reduce the total cost of your loan.

Having a cosigner can be beneficial, but you may eventually want to remove them and take full responsibility for repayment.

How to remove a cosigner from a student loan

For some private loans, cosigners can be released after you've made a required number of on-time payments. This demonstrates that you can repay your loan, are less likely to default and meet creditworthiness requirements.

Once released:

The cosigner is no longer responsible for the loan
You become solely responsible for repayment

More information

To learn more, visit our Student Lending page or call 866-999-0077 to connect with a Student Loan Advisor.

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Co-signer Release: Borrowers may apply for co-signer release after entering full principal and interest repayment. Interest-only payments do not qualify. The borrower must meet credit and eligibility requirements and submit a co-signer release application with income verification documents.

Borrowers must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (living in the U.S. or U.S. territories). Applications may be submitted once every 12 months from the previous application date. Terms and conditions apply.

Note: Co-signer release is not available on the Student Loan for Parents.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only as a service to the public and is not legal advice or a substitute for legal counsel. You should do your own research or contact a legal or tax advisor for assistance with questions about the information provided.