For people who become totally and permanently disabled due to illness or injury, or those who have lost a child for whom they had helped with a student loan, there is a process through which they can have their student loan debt discharged, under the assumption that they will not be able to perform any substantial or gainful activity. However, if they are granted this discharge, the amount discharged counts as taxable income against them. For many in this situation, this tax debt is un-payable, puts their already limited assets at risk, and causes undue stress for sick and grieving people. It is unjust and in bad taste to offer debt relief to those who are among the most unfortunate and the most financially unstable, only to exchange that debt for one that is more difficult to absolve.



