Consumer complaint received 2025-08-27 00:00:00
Product: Student loan — Private student loan
Issue: Struggling to repay your loan — Can't get other flexible options for repaying your loan
Company: SLM CORPORATION
State: NJ

Complaint narrative:
At the time of origination, Sallie Mae ( or its representative ) falsely claimed that I would always have access to flexible repayment terms, including options such as In School- Grace period and transitional & Hardship. All of these features are not available for my private loans as of today and were material to my decision to accept the loan initially. I believe I was misled and not given clear, accurate, or complete information about the loans terms and repayment obligations. I was told repayment options were available. Now I am being told there is a criteria and a limit on how many assistance programs are allowed. Despite me never receiving that vital part of information. Had I known there was a cap on assistance I would have went with another lender but I was partially informed. 

As of current, I was notified around XXXX of XXXX that my payments will increase. I attempted to contact Sallie Mae early XX/XX/XXXX prior to my payment date of XX/XX/XXXX. Potentially seeking assistance within a repayment program for a lower repayment amount. As well as trying to get ahead of the situation and be able to continue making payments. I was told due to the status of my account it appears that I am eligible to pay the following amount. The manager then explained that the system is generated through a computer program. And because I made consistent payments on the fixed amount. It appears as though I can potentially make a bigger payment. Despite me explaining my income and my current expenses wont allow me to make the new payment amount. He then suggested I allow my account to go past due for the system to generate a new repayment solution because it is system generated. I was speaking to a manager. He then clearly stated on the recorded phone line that it would be best for me to wait until after 2 billing periods. I also called XXXX XXXX to follow up with any possible changes. I was then notified that I still wasnt eligible for any options despite receiving multiple emails stating Regardless of where you are on your student loan repayment journey. You still have options when you get behind. Go online or get in touch to learn more about payment programs. I believe this claim is under false claims. My account is now currently past due and being reported to my credit agency under unfair and deceptive practices. Ultimately violating my rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( 15 U.S.C 1681i ) and Truth in Lending Act.

I believe I was misled and not given clear, accurate, or complete information about the loans terms and repayment obligations. As well as the account stating 0 % paid off on my credit report although Ive been making payments consistently since XXXX of XXXX. I believe it is unfair to penalize someone that is actively trying to pay. The assistance that is proclaimed to be available on advertisements are not accessible or true.

Enclosed are the following documents to support my dispute : A copy of my credit report with the Sallie Mae account highlighted [ Any emails, screenshots, or documents referencing the misleading claims, if available ] This dispute is submitted in good faith and should not be construed as an acknowledgment of debt. Please respond in writing within the 30-day timeframe required by law. 

Sincerely, XXXX XXXX

Company public response: Company believes it acted appropriately as authorized by contract or law
Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation