Understanding Student Loan Default

Taking control of your obligations

Don't let default derail your future—explore options to stay on track with your federal student loans

Directory Student Rights & Responsibilities
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NOT KNOWING IS THE HARDEST PART

Don't let default derail your future—explore options to stay on track with your federal student loans.

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CONSEQUENCES

Avoid the long-term consequences of default—know your repayment options and seek help early.

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OWN IT

Struggling with federal loan payments? Learn how to prevent default and protect your financial health.

What is Student Loan Default?

Definition: Student loan default occurs when a borrower fails to make scheduled payments on their student loans for a specified period, typically 270 days (approximately nine months) for federal loans. Defaulting on a loan can lead to serious financial consequences, including damage to your credit score, wage garnishment, and potential legal action.

Why It Matters?

  • Credit Score Impact: Defaulting can significantly lower your credit score, making it more difficult to secure credit cards, car loans, mortgages, or even rental agreements.
  • Increased Debt: Fees and interest can accumulate, increasing the total amount owed.
  • Loss of Benefits: You may lose access to benefits such as federal student aid or loan forgiveness programs.
  • Legal Repercussions: Lenders may take legal action to recover the owed amount.

Reasons for Default

Understanding why borrowers default can help in prevention:

  • Lack of Financial Literacy: Many borrowers are unaware of their repayment options or the importance of making timely payments.
  • Economic Challenges: Unemployment, underemployment, or unexpected expenses can hinder timely payments.
  • Increased Loan Amounts: Borrowers may not anticipate how much they owe or the impact of interest over time.
  • Failure to Use Available Resources: Some students may not know about deferment, forbearance, or income-driven repayment plans.

How to Get Out of Default

STEP 1

Confirm Your Loan Status

Before taking action, check the status of your loans:

  • Visit the Federal Student Aid (FSA) website to view your loan details
  • Call your loan servicer to confirm the status and balance
STEP 2

Understand Your Options for Getting Out of Default

There are several methods to regain good standing:

Loan Rehabilitation
  • What It Is: A process that allows you to make a series of nine consecutive monthly payments (based on your income) to bring your loans out of default.
  • How to Start: Contact your loan servicer to request a rehabilitation plan.
  • Benefits: After rehabilitation, the default status will be removed from your credit history.
Loan Consolidation
  • What It Is: Combining multiple federal loans into a single Direct Consolidation Loan.
  • Eligibility: Generally requires that your loans be in default; you'll need to make a few payments to get a consolidation loan.
  • Benefits: Offers a more manageable monthly payment scheme. However, it may extend your repayment timeline.
Repayment in Full
  • What It Is: Paying off the entire balance of your loan.
  • Considerations: This option may not be feasible for most students but is a straightforward way to resolve the issue.
STEP 3

Explore Income-Driven Repayment Plans

If you successfully rehabilitate or consolidate your loans, consider enrolling in an income-driven repayment plan, which adjusts your monthly payment based on your income and family size.

STEP 4

Request a Forbearance or Deferment

If you're experiencing temporary financial difficulties, you may qualify for deferment or forbearance, which allows you to temporarily postpone payments without falling into default again.

Moving Forward: Tips for Preventing Default

1. Stay Informed

Understand the terms of your loans, including interest rates, grace periods, and repayment plans.

2. Create a Budget

Track your expenses and manage your finances to ensure you can meet monthly loan payments.

3. Set Reminders

Use apps or calendars to remind you of payment due dates.

4. Seek Financial Counseling

Many colleges offer financial counseling services. Take advantage of school resources.

5. Communicate with Your Servicer

If you're struggling to make payments, reach out to your loan servicer for help as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Defaulting on a student loan can have drastic effects on your financial future, but it's important to recognize that options are available to help you regain control.

Familiarizing yourself with the terms of your loans, creating a budget, and communicating proactively with your loan servicer can lead you to a path of financial stability.

Remember, taking early action is crucial in avoiding the negative consequences of default.

Know Your Rights & Responsibilities

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a student borrower is essential for managing your loans effectively.

Learn More About Your Rights

FINISH YOUR EDUCATION TO BEGIN YOUR CAREER

Take control of your student loans today and secure your financial future