Jenna Franco

Gone are the days when defaulted student loan borrowers could ignore collection actions without consequence. Starting January 7, 2026, the federal government will begin garnishing wages for borrowers in default after more than 270 days past due. Initial notices will be sent to around 1,000 borrowers, but the number of notices is expected to grow steadily throughout 2026 as additional defaults are processed. Even if your current balance feels overwhelming, waiting will only deepen the negative...

When life gets overwhelming, student loan payments are often the first thing borrowers fall behind on. But letting those payments slide for too long can snowball into something much more serious: default. The good news? Even if you’re struggling or already past due, you still have options. Income-driven repayment (IDR) programs can help you avoid default, protect your financial health, and get back on track often with payments that fit your budget. Let’s break down what default actually...

The holidays are here. Travel , gifts, family gatherings, and more spending than usual. For millions of federal student loan borrowers, this season can also bring stress, especially with payments, late notices, or uncertainty about what you qualify for. The good news? A few simple steps now can make your January far easier. Here’s how to stay in control this holiday season and start the new year with a clear plan. 1. Get Clear on Your Student Loan Status Before the holiday rush distracts...