Resolve Your Loan Problem Yourself

Whether you're having problems making payments on your loan or you think you may qualify to have your loan discharged, we want to help you find answers to your questions.

Figure out your problem - The first thing you need to do, once you determine that you do have a problem, is determine exactly what your problem is. See our identify your problem page for a list of common problems with student loans.

Before calling the Ombudsman - If you are experiencing a problem with your loan, contact your loan servicer. If you are unsure of who is servicing your loan, the Loan Locator can help you find out. You can also call 1-800-4-FED-AID.

Deal with your servicer - It is usually better to communicate in writing, but if you use the telephone, keep careful notes of the conversations you have and be sure to have all relevant documents at hand before you make any call about your loan. For more information, see our tips for dealing with your loan servicer.

Once you have followed these guidelines, you should fill out the Self-Resolution Checklist to assure yourself that you have done everything you can. If you are still not satisfied, you should prepare the materials you will need and then contact the Ombudsman's office for further assistance.

Additional resources are available from our links page.