Student Loans - How long can they be deffered?

[sandygirl]

I have both federal student loans {thru co step} and Alternative student loans {thru citibank}

I'm not working now, and just took time off from school. I don't know at this point if I'll be going back or not.

My question is - how long can I defer these loans? I'm in the process of applying for SSI, and just don't have any income coming in right now.

[sandygirl]

doesn't anyone here know?

[baileyandmikey]

6 months... or you can apply for a forebearance, which will last longer, and is based on your ability to pay, financial situation etc. if you go on disiabilty i think there may be a thing about them forgiving your loans if you go on full time disability