You first port of call in this instance should always be the Default Resolution Group
Has any company sought "enrollment", "subscription" or "maintenance" fees from you to help get you out of default?
Yes, I have been contacted in this manner
Your first action here should be to walk away. Your loan can be moved out of default for free with the Default Resolution Group
Is there any way that I can avoid having 15% of my wages garnished when dealing with loan collections?
One way to avoid this is to come to an agreement with the ED and negotiate better repayment terms for you which are acceptable by the ED or the private collection agency. You must ensure that the ED receives the first payment that is due no later than 30 days from the date of garnishment
Is there anywhere that I can learn more about companies seeking fees to get my loan out of default?
You should read our blog post called "Don't Be Fooled; You Never Have to Pay for Student Loan Help"
Are there other collection costs applicable apart from the cost of placing my loan with a collections agency?
You may have other costs, such as Treasury offset processing fees. There may also be costs associated with potential civil litigation from the Department of Justice
How do collection agencies work when they take over a loan that is in default?