Real Life
Me: Hi Student Loan Providers. So, you guys told me that if I couldn't make a payment, that I should call you, and we could work something out, because it was better than just missing a payment.
Student Loan Providers: Yes, this thing you say we said, we did indeed say.
Me: Okay, cool. So, my first payments are due today.
SLPs: Again, you are speaking truthfully.
Me: Yes. So, I'm unemployed, and have $1.22 in my bank account, and $0 in cash in my possession.
SLPs: Is that because you paid us?
Me: No. I can't afford to pay you. Because of those things. What can I do? I'd rather not default or have a missed payment and then be charged late-fees that I also cannot afford. Because I have $1.22.
SLPs: Well, because there are no payments on your account, we cannot offer you a deferral or forbearance. Unless you pay us $50 right now, then we'll postpone your payments three months.
Me: I have $1.22.
SLPs: Which is why we suggest paying the $50 to postpone your payments.
Me: But I can't afford $50.
SLPs: We understand your hardships, so we're prepared to offer you a three month forbearance.
Me: Great. What do I have to do next?
SLPs: Pay us $50 right now.
Me: ...
SLPs: Otherwise, your payments will be marked past due, and a collections agent will be calling you in a month.
Me: So, I'm still unemployed, with $1.22 to my name. Just as I was at the beginning of this phone call. I don't have any money.
SLPs: We understand, sir. Unfortunately, this is all we can offer you.
Me: How does this not qualify for financial hardships, as mentioned in the contract I signed?
SLPs: Because in order to qualify for that, you'd need to have a job.
Me: But if I had a job, I wouldn't be having financial hardships...?
SLPs: That's the policy.
Me: So I was told to call you if I couldn't make a payment, because then we could work things out, and my account wouldn't default, and wouldn't ruin my otherwise pristine credit score.
SLPs: Yes, and thank you for calling and making us aware of your situation. Your late fees will be processed quicker now.
Me: .... What? So by calling you, instead of helping me, while I'm trying to be responsible... this has made things worse?
SLPs: No, now you're just aware of the late-fees. Otherwise, we wouldn't have told you, and you'd just be consistently short on your payments without your knowledge.
Me: #$%^#$^#
SLPs: Is there anything else we can help you with today?
Me: :angry: :angry: :angry:
SLPs: Please make your payments on-time, and have a nice day!
Me: :burnmad:
Me: :unsure:
Me:
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