Loan Consolidation Services

Deciding whether to consolidate a student loan can be difficult--not made easier by the looming Friday deadline before loan rates rise. Most student lenders offer Web sites and toll-free phone numbers for more information:

Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Information Center: https://www.loanconsolidation.ed.gov or (800) 557-7392.

The Web site includes a calculator for determining your after-consolidation loan rate and payments.

Sallie Mae: https://www.salliemae.com or (800) 524-9100

USA Group: https://www.usagroup.com or (800) 448-3533

Nellie Mae: https://www.nelliemae.com or (800) 634-9308

Citibank: https://www.studentloan.com or (800) 967-2400