alien-queen: Just saw your post about repaying loans - you say to consolidate all of your loans through the federal government, but there are many people like me who, for example, have $46,000 of private loan debt through Citibank, Sallie Mae, and MRU Holdings that are not affiliated with the government. The federal government will not allow you to consolidate those loans, as best I can tell. Your advice to us?
Unfortunately, I can’t say much. I never took out private loans, and you’re right: They almost universally cannot be consolidated via the federal government. My best suggestion is that you contact them and explain you’re experiencing financial hardship (even if it isn’t true), and ask about paperwork for an income based repayment plan. They may or may not have one. Also ask about whatever incentives or forgiveness programs they may offer (like if you work in a school affected by poverty, or other types of public service).
If anyone out there has some solid advice to add, please do so.
