Educational Materials and Resources - Student Loan Ombudsman - Financial Regulation
(Last reviewed or updated: April 21, 2026)
Educational Materials
The Maryland Student Loan Ombudsman’s Educational Materials are designed for those who are seeking, already have, or are responsible for repaying, federal and private student loans. The materials:
- Familiarizes borrowers with their rights and responsibilities;
- Explains how to apply for federal financial aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process;
- Explains the repayment options and some possible payment programs;
- Explains potential loan forgiveness options and how to make use of those options; and
- Explains and defines important loan-related financial terms.
Maryland Student Loan Borrower’s Bill of Rights
The Maryland Student Loan Borrower’s Bill of Rights applies to Maryland residents who are repaying student loans. The Bill of Rights describes the protections borrowers have and the requirements of the companies that collect and process borrower payments, named “student loan servicers”.
Federal Resources:
- National Office of the U.S. Department of Education - Repayment, consolidation, and postponement options for federal loans.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- CFPB Questions About Student Loans
- CFPB Private Education Loan Ombudsman - created to assist private student loan borrowers. You may file a private student loan complaint using the online student loan complaint form.
Tips for student loan borrowers- Repay student debt - Know your options
- U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid Office (FSA):
- National advocate: National Consumer Law Center
Maryland Resources for Student Loan Borrowers:
- SmartBuy from the Department of Housing and Community Development
- Maryland Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit from the Higher Education Commission
Maryland Resources for Financing a College Education:
- Maryland Higher Education Commission
- Maryland 529 (formerly College Savings Plan of Maryland)
Help With Your Student Loan Servicer
Maryland residents with questions about their student loans or concerns about their student loan servicer may request assistance from the Maryland Student Loan Ombudsman by submitting a consumer complaint using the online complaint form.
Visit the Student Loan Ombudsman page for additional resources.Questions?
Telephone: 410-230-6077 (Toll-free: 888-784-0136)
Email: [email protected]