According to the Federal Student Aid, a qualifying monthly payment is a payment that you make
- after Oct. 1, 2007;
- under a qualifying Income Driven Repayment (IDR) plan;
- for the full amount due as shown on your bill;
- or when you’re in one of the accepted types of deferments or forbearance at any time during that month;
- while you are employed full-time by a qualifying employer.