If you fail to repay on time, you are delinquent. If you continue to be delinquent, you're in default — and your entire loan balance becomes due.
Default means trouble. You may be ineligible for further student aid or other credit. Collection charges may be added to every payment you do make. To ensure your loan gets paid, the government may withhold your federal and state tax refunds or even part of your wages.
But none of this has to happen. You may have special circumstances that make you eligible for other repayment options, including forbearance and deferment. Even if you’re in default, there’s still help through a variety of programs.
Learn more about your options should you face payment problems by learning more about postponing loan payments and loan default.
