What Is Nelnet?
Nelnet is one of the four active federal student loan servicers approved by the Department of Education. Based in Lincoln, Nebraska, Nelnet has serviced federal student loans since 1978. The company also owns Great Lakes Educational Loan Services, meaning some "Great Lakes" borrowers effectively have Nelnet as their parent company.
Nelnet services Direct Loans for millions of federal borrowers.
How to Contact Nelnet
- Website: nelnet.com
- Phone: 1-888-486-4722
- Hours: Monday–Friday 8 AM–10 PM ET; Saturday 10 AM–2 PM ET
- Online chat: Available at nelnet.com during business hours
What 2026 Policy Changes Mean for Nelnet Borrowers
If you are enrolled in SAVE: Your account is in administrative forbearance due to the court injunction. Payments are paused and do not count toward IDR forgiveness or PSLF. Log in to nelnet.com to confirm your status.
If you want to switch plans: Submit an IDR plan change request through your Nelnet account or at studentaid.gov. IBR remains fully available and is the recommended alternative for most borrowers who were on SAVE.
If you are pursuing PSLF: PSLF processing is handled by MOHELA. Nelnet can tell you your payment history, but you'll need to submit your Employer Certification Forms through studentaid.gov and contact MOHELA for your qualifying payment count.
Key Actions for Nelnet Borrowers
- Log in to nelnet.com and verify your current repayment plan and next payment date.
- If on SAVE: Evaluate whether to switch to IBR. The forbearance period doesn't count toward forgiveness, so staying on SAVE longer delays your timeline.
- Set up autopay: Nelnet offers a 0.25% interest rate reduction for autopay enrollment.
- Review your loan details: Confirm your loan types (Direct vs. FFEL), interest rates, and balances.
Understanding Your Nelnet Dashboard
When you log in to nelnet.com, you can see:
- Your current loan balance and interest breakdown
- Your repayment plan and estimated monthly payment
- Your payment history and upcoming due dates
- Tools to apply for IDR plans or request deferment/forbearance
Common Nelnet Problems and Solutions
"My payment went up significantly." IDR payments recalculate based on your most recently filed tax return. If your income increased, your payment will too. You can request early recertification if your income has recently decreased.
"I'm having trouble logging in." Nelnet migrated to a new system in recent years. Try resetting your password at nelnet.com, or call customer service if you can't access your account.
"I received a bill but thought I was in forbearance." Confirm your forbearance status through your Nelnet account. If you're on SAVE, administrative forbearance should be automatic — but contact Nelnet to confirm if you received an unexpected bill.