Q: I have students loans amounting to $190,286.78. I live in Italy as a US Citizen. I dont work. What happens?
What happens if I dont work and cant make the payments? I had to make a master promisary note. Who will be held responsbile to make the payments? Since I dont work
A:
Based on the information provided, here's what you need to know about your situation:
1. Student loan debt:
- Your student loans amount to $190,286.78.
- You've signed a master promissory note, which is a legally binding agreement to repay the loans.
2. Your current situation:
- You're a US citizen living in Italy.
- You're currently not working.
3. Consequences of non-payment:
If you can't make payments on your student loans, several things could happen:
a) Default: After a certain period of non-payment (usually 270 days for federal loans), your loans will go into default.
b) Credit score impact: Your credit score will be negatively affected, which can have long-term consequences for future financial opportunities.
c) Collection efforts: The loan servicer or government may engage in collection efforts, which could include:
- Garnishing your wages if you start working
- Seizing tax refunds
- Potentially taking legal action
d) Loan acceleration: The entire loan balance may become due immediately.
e) Loss of benefits: You may lose access to deferment, forbearance, and income-driven repayment plans.
4. Responsibility for payments:
- You are solely responsible for repaying the loans, as you signed the promissory note.
- There's no transfer of responsibility just because you're not working or living abroad.
5. Options to consider:
a) Income-driven repayment plans: If these are federal loans, you may be eligible for plans that base payments on your income. With no income, your payments could potentially be $0.
b) Deferment or forbearance: You might qualify for temporary postponement of payments.
c) Loan rehabilitation: If you've already defaulted, you may have options to bring your loans back into good standing.
d) Consult a student loan advisor or lawyer: They can provide more personalized advice based on your specific situation.
It's important to take action and communicate with your loan servicer rather than ignoring the situation. While living abroad can complicate matters, it doesn't absolve you of the responsibility to repay the loans.
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