Frustrated by Loan Consolidation Telemarketers?
 
More and more students are receiving daily calls from telemarketers offering loan consolidation loans. Even first-semester freshmen are receiving these calls. If you want the calls to stop, here are some suggestions:
 
Exercise your rights!
bullet Register your phone on the National "Do Not Call List" at https://www.donotcall.gov/default.aspx
bullet After you list your number, let telemarketers know you are on the list and they are violating the law and you will be filing a complaint.
bullet Report violators to the feds
bullet Ask each lender to be removed from their calling list.
bullet Document the name of each lender calling.
bullet If you continue to receive calls from a lender where you have requested to be removed, respond by saying "I have been asked to be removed from your calling list. I will be filing a complaint with the State Attorney General's Office." Then hang up.
bullet Follow through with your complaint at this web site: http://www2.state.id.us/ag/consumer/   . You will find a downloadable complaint form.
bullet When you are ready to consolidate loans, YOU should initiate a call or electronic application to the lender. Do not respond to telephone solicitors.

The Boise State Financial Aid Office does not endorse any of these private lenders, including NelNet. The Federal Direct Loan Servicer also offers consolidation loans, but they can not legally call you to explain this option. There are times when it is beneficial to consolidate your loans and there are other situations where it can be detrimental to you. If you need assistance in analyzing your options, please contact the Boise State Financial Aid Office for an appointment with a counselor. Our phone number is (208) 426.1664.

3.17.2006