Starting the repayment phase of your student loans is a significant financial milestone, but it can also bring unexpected challenges. In Episode 80 of Credit 101, we address the common issue of late payments appearing on your credit report and offer guidance on what steps to take:

**1. Understand Your Repayment Plan:
Before diving into solutions, ensure you fully understand your chosen repayment plan. Different plans may have varying terms and conditions, impacting how payments are reported.

**2. Review Your Loan Servicer Communication:
Go through all communication from your loan servicer. Ensure you are aware of the due dates, payment amounts, and any grace periods provided.

**3. Check for Reporting Errors:
Regularly review your credit reports to identify any reporting errors. Discrepancies in reported late payments could be due to inaccuracies, so it’s crucial to catch these early.

**4. Contact Your Loan Servicer:
If you spot late payments that you believe are inaccurately reported, contact your loan servicer immediately. Provide evidence of on-time payments and clarify any discrepancies.

**5. Negotiate with Your Loan Servicer:
In some cases, loan servicers may be willing to adjust reported late payments, especially if you’ve been proactive in communicating and have a valid reason for the delay.

**6. Consider Loan Rehabilitation:
If your loans have entered default status, explore loan rehabilitation programs offered by your loan servicer. Completing a rehabilitation program can help improve your credit and remove the default status.

**7. Stay Proactive and Informed:
Regularly communicate with your loan servicer and stay informed about your repayment progress. Being proactive in addressing issues can prevent further complications.

Conclusion:
Starting your student loan repayment journey is a significant step towards financial responsibility. By staying vigilant, addressing reporting errors, and maintaining open communication with your loan servicer, you can navigate through challenges and ensure your credit report accurately reflects your repayment efforts.