That sounds like a really frustrating situation Michelle.

The deadline to consolidate to get the most favorable terms was July 1. However, because of the ongoing lawsuits attempting to block SAVE, some borrowers were not able to sign up by the deadline. I’m hopeful that the Department of Education gives some flexiblity to the borrowers who didn’t quite make the deadline.

In my experience, most of the serivcers make it difficult to just send them an email with quesitons. The Contact page offers a mailing address if you want to stick with written correspondence as well as a phone number to call them directly.

As frustrating as it is, sometimes a phone call is unavoidable.

I’ve got a few thoughts based on what you have said Jan.

First, I think it would be reasonable for you to ask for a deferment or a forebearance while your disability discharge application is pending. If granted, that would pause any collections activity.

Second, I find it a bit strange that you are not working with NelNet on the applicaiton. They are the servicer in charge of the applications. You can read more about the process here: https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/disability-discharge

Finally, I’d encourage you to consider consolidating your loans before the end of this month (as described in this article). You may have to restart the disability discharge process, but it would resolve any default on your loan, and help you qualify for the one-time payment count adjustment as well as more affordable repayment plans like SAVE. This would make getting your debt forgiven considerably easier and more affordable if you are unable to secure a disability discharge.