What is the definition of a loan being in default for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program?
For the purposes of the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program, a loan is in default If a payment has not been made in over 270 days.
Can I qualify for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program if I previously defaulted on my student loans, but was able to consolidate them to get a more manageable payment and now my account is paid on time?
Yes, you would be eligible to apply for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program if your student loan(s) is not currently in default.
Can I apply for the Student Loan Assistance the next time it is offered if I was approved previously?
Yes, employees can apply each time the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program is offered, regardless of a previous award.
Can I apply for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program the next time it is offered if I was not approved this year?
Yes, situations change. If you were not eligible the last time the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program was offered, you may very well be eligible the next time.
Employees can apply each time the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program is offered.
Will the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program be offered every year?
The Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program is a 5-year program that was implemented SY 23/24, running through SY 28/29.
Is the award received from the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program taxable income?
Yes. The award received from the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program is taxable income, and your social security number will be shared with Howard County Government for your check to be disbursed.
I was a Substitute for 3 years and have been a teacher for 3 years. Am I eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program?
No. You are not eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program, because Substitutes are not full-time, permanent employees.
Do I need to have been a teacher for five years or just employed for five years to be eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program?
You need to be employed as a full-time, permanent employee for a minimum of five school years to be eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program.
Are administrators eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program?
No. Only members of the Howard County Education Association (HCEA) are eligible to participate in the program at this time.
What certification am I required to have to be eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program?
One of the following active certifications is required to be eligible for the Student Loan Assistance Repayment Program (based on what is listed in your Workday profile under Careers > Certifications):