Complaint Review: Broadsword Student Advantage

     Early in 2014, I responded to a radio ad on WNYC Public Radio for a student load forgiveness program. The customer service person from Broadsword Student Advantage who contacted me ensured me they could help me get more of my loan forgiven than the $500 they charged for the service. I signed some paperwork on-line so they could start the application process.

    My student loans were put in forebearance while they filed for consolidation. My loans were moved to Sallie Mae at the same interest rate I had before. This process took more than 6 months during which time I was charged an $29.95 additional monthly fee for services. In August, I lost one of my part-time not-for-profit jobs. In February 2015 I was informed that I need to work a minimum of 30 hours per week to qualify for the loan forgiveness program. I have lost hope of finding that many hours of paid nfp work and cannot afford to volunteer. I have taken a new job with a for-profit small business. 

     When I called to cancel my account, it was suggested I keep making the monthly payments until I find the necessary 30 hours of work. 

     I wish I had researched the company instead of just assuming they were reputable because I heard an ad on a reputable public radio station. If I had used the money to buy lottery tickets, I might have been further ahead than I am now.