I looked for an answer in this thread before my post, but all I can find is from folks who have already entered the rehab process. I'm looking to maybe avoid it . . .

In a nutshell:

$60k current balance on loans. I graduated in '97 and have never paid on them. Last year I ran out of forbearance/hardship/etc. and Nelnet had no other options for me. American Education Services paid the default claim and now my loan is with them.

Last year we got through a foreclosure and some past due condo association fees that went to an attorney resulting in lots of added fees. Student loans were my lowest priority as I wanted to save my home -- and did!

Now I'm in a position where I can finally start paying a little bit each month and sucked up my pride and called AES yesterday. They told me that I can either pay off the entire amount in the next 6 days or they will add a 19% collection fee and I can start the rehab process.

I acknowledge that this situation is entirely of my doing. I'm just trying to figure out if I have any options left, or if my denial/procrastination has screwed me yet again.

Will anyone consider consolidation with this history if I arrange regular automatic payments beginning immediately? And do I have time to consolidate before my 6 days is up?

thanks.

thanks. That's what I was afraid of.