IRS vs Student Loans

IRS Tax Relief vs. Student Financial Aid: Why Can’t Student Loans Work Like Tax Debt?

What is IRS Tax Relief?

IRS tax relief includes programs that help people manage or reduce what they owe to the IRS. Common options include:

  • Offer in Compromise (OIC): Settle your tax debt for less than the full amount.
  • Installment Agreements: Make monthly payments over time.
  • Currently Not Collectible (CNC): Stop collections temporarily if you can’t afford to pay.

The IRS reviews your income, expenses, and assets to decide what you can reasonably pay.

What is a Pell Grant?

A Pell Grant is federal aid for low-income college students. It’s awarded based on financial need and:

  • Does not have to be repaid.
  • Is not a loan.
  • Helps students pay for college, but doesn’t reduce student loan debt already owed.

Key Differences

FeatureIRS Tax ReliefPell Grants
PurposeTo resolve tax debtTo help pay for college
RepaymentReduced or forgivenNo repayment needed
Based OnFinancial hardshipFinancial need
Who’s EligibleAny taxpayer in hardshipUndergraduate students only
Administered byInternal Revenue Service (IRS)U.S. Department of Education

Why Can’t Student Loan Forgiveness Work Like IRS Relief?

  • People in tax debt can often settle for less if they’re struggling financially.
  • Student loan borrowers in the same situation don’t have that option—they’re often stuck with debt for life.
  • It’s time to create a new path for student loan forgiveness, based on the successful model the IRS uses for tax relief.

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