First some history and many questions, thanks!
I recently checked my CR, it listed a 60 days late on my Citibank student loans from 1999. My excuse is I moved, I checked the little square on the last bill I sent. I dont know what happened, but the bill never came. I tried to call them but Citibank in NY didnt have the number to the Student Loan Corporation. Believe it or not.
In a month or so, the bill finally came and I continued paying as usual. My only blackmark in my credit. Since it was like 9 different loans, it looks way worse on paper.
I know ultimately its my responsiblity. My record show I have made every payment, even through some umemployment periods. Just makes me mad at myself I guess.
My question is:
1. Since it was back in 1999, does it still have a serious affect in my scores?
2. How long before it goes away? 7 years? 10 years? Never?
3. If it does drop off eventually, does the (7 years) start from the time when I
was late? Or from the time I totally pay off the whole
amount of the loan then does the (7 years) start? That way I may only have
to wait a couple of more years.
3. I have around 6K left,(loan was for about 25K I think) would paying it off
improve my score and will that look good to lenders even with the late
payments?
4. Is there a way to actually have late payments removed or have it reduced to
30 days late? Anyway to negotiate to have that removed?
I'm reading about others situation, like writing to the DoE , etc.. I dont know if thats even applicable to my situation but if someone can give me some advice on ways to get rid of the late payments, that would be great.
Thanks again!
