Save the notice, verify the debt through official channels, confirm whether the loan is federal or private, and write down deadlines before making a payment or sharing sensitive information.
Default help
Student Loan Default Help and Garnishment Notice Checklist
A plain-English checklist for borrowers who received a default, collections, Treasury offset, or wage-garnishment notice and need to verify the next step.
Free checklist
No FSA ID
Source-oriented steps
Start here
A scary notice can make every phone number look urgent. Before paying anyone or changing a plan, confirm whether the loan is federal or private, who owns it, what the notice says, and what deadline actually applies.
- Save the notice, envelope, date received, account number, phone number, and any stated deadline.
- Check StudentAid.gov for federal loan status and compare it with the notice.
- Write down servicer, collector, balance, default date if shown, and any rehabilitation or consolidation option discussed.
- Do not provide FSA ID, password, Social Security number, bank login, or upfront payment through an unofficial form.
A plain-English checklist for borrowers who received a default, collections, Treasury offset, or wage-garnishment.
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No. This site provides educational checklists and referral tools. Confirm official options with StudentAid.gov, your servicer, collector, or a qualified advisor.