Is there a way to not barf when dealing with CITIBANK

September 18, 2012 10:44 AM

A week ago I got mail stating that Citi had sold half of my student loans to Discover. I went to make my loan payments the other day to find that my minimum amount had more than doubled.

I went to make my loan payments the other day to find that my minimum amount had more than doubled to an amount that I can not possibly afford at this moment. I dont even know how I am going to pay other bills.
I tried calling, its impossible to get to a person.
So I sent them a message. They claim that they no longer offer the "graduated" repayment plan and that I am now in a "Level" payment plan. Can they just change this without my authorization?
How do I get them to work with me?

posted by misformiche to work & money (6 answers total)

Someone else can probably help with the "can they do this?!" question but to get a human at Citibank here are instructions from gethuman.com and get2human.com says the same thing. Average wait is 20 minutes.
posted by Wretch729 at 10:50 AM on September 18, 2012 [2 favorites]

Ugh, I've had this happen to me as well. Since it's now in Discover's hands, I would contact them to see if you can get your minimum payment reduced.
posted by never nice at 11:01 AM on September 18, 2012 [1 favorite]

Can they just change this without my authorization?

Most creditors bury language in the contract stating that, in essence, they can do anything they want without notice or your approval, including raising your rate or selling the loan.
posted by Thorzdad at 11:04 AM on September 18, 2012 [1 favorite]

It may or may not be helpful, but The Consumerist suggests contacting the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Also, please keep good notes about your conversations with Discover.
posted by MonkeyToes at 11:07 AM on September 18, 2012 [1 favorite]

Consumer Credit Counseling Services is an industry group but they do try to negotiate loans so the customer can manage payments. I recommend checking with a consumer advocacy group first to see if you have special rights relating to your case and then try CCCS who banks routinely listen to if the others don't work out for you.
posted by dances_with_sneetches at 11:19 AM on September 18, 2012

If you're in america, you may be eligible for consolidation with the federal government.
posted by miniape at 7:03 PM on September 18, 2012