Student loan debt collectors

• Federal student loans have no statute of limitations, and the government can take tax refunds and garnish up to 15% of disposable pay without suing.
• Ways out of federal default include loan rehabilitation and consolidation. Ask about them in writing.
• Private student loans do have a state time limit, and a debt buyer that bought one must prove it owns it.
• Check StudentAid.gov to see which of your loans are federal.

Time limits: Private student loans are usually covered by the state’s written contract or promissory note limit. Federal student loans have no limit. Check your state.

Ask the collector to prove it

1. Collecting a debt the person says they don't owe42%
2. Missing or unclear written notice about the debt21%
3. False or misleading statements15%
4. Calling too often or after being told to stop10%
5. Threatened or took negative or legal action6.7%
6. Problems with texts, emails or social media messages3.0%
7. Contacting or threatening to contact other people2.5%