By Seth Frotman

Over the past five years, student loan borrowers across the country have turned to us to submit complaints about the struggles they face when repaying their student loans. We have handled more than 50,000 student loan related complaints describing servicing breakdowns, debt collection hurdles, and “debt relief.” These complaints help us to recognize and work to stop industry practices that harm consumers and can serve as the first step in a process that halted industry practices harming some of the most vulnerable individuals, saved hundreds of millions of dollars for tens of thousands of student loan borrowers, and strengthened aspects of the student loan repayment process to protect millions of consumers.

Student loan borrowers collectively owe more than $1.4 trillion in student loan debt.

We’ve released a state-by-state snapshot showing how this debt is spread across the country. It also breaks down the complaints we handled from student loan borrowers in every state.

If you are experiencing problems related to student loans or debt collection you can submit a complaint online or call (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

We also have tips to help student loan borrowers navigate problems with their student loans. If you are having problems paying your student loans, visit our Repay Student Debt tool. This interactive resource offers a step-by-step guide to show borrowers their repayment options, especially when facing default.

Seth Frotman is the CFPB’s Student Loan Ombudsman. To learn more about our work for students and young consumers, visit consumerfinance.gov/students.