MyGreatLakes is an online platform that allows students to manage their federal student loans. Whether you are a new borrower or have current loans with Great Lakes, establishing an account on the MyGreatLakes platform will help you manage your loans more efficiently. This tutorial will help you through the process of creating a MyGreatLakes account, including the advantages and critical concerns.
What is MyGreatLakes?
Great Lakes Educational Loan Services, Inc. is among the major student loan servicers in the United States. It administers federal student loans for millions of students, providing services such as payment processing, debt consolidation, and repayment plans. Great Lakes is currently a part of Nelnet, which purchased it in 2018. Despite the transaction, Great Lakes will continue to run its own debt management platform.
Prerequisites for Create MyGreatLakes New Account
Before you can sign up for a MyGreatLakes account, ensure you have the following:
Personal Information:
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Date of Birth
Contact Information:
- Valid email address
- Current phone number
Loan Details:
- Loan information such as loan type and balance (if applicable)
Internet Access:
- Device with internet connectivity to access the MyGreatLakes website
Security Setup:
- Create a User ID and password
- Set up security questions and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) for account protection
How To Sign Up for MyGreatLakes Account?
Step 1: Visit the Website:
- Go to mygreatlakes.org.
Step 2: Access Sign-Up Page:
- Click on the “Sign Up” link on the home page.
Step 3: Enter Personal Details:
- Provide your User ID, password, Social Security Number (SSN), and Date of Birth.
Step 4: Verify Identity:
- Complete the identity verification process by answering security questions or providing additional information.
Step 5: Set Up Security:
- Create a Personal Identification Number (PIN) and select an identity image for added security.
Step 6: Review and Complete:
- Check all entered details and click “Continue” to finalize the registration.
Step 7: Confirmation:
- You will receive a confirmation message or email once your account is successfully created.
Logging In and Account Management
Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime to manage your loans. To log in:
- Go to the MyGreatLakes website.
- Enter your User ID and password.
- Click “Continue” to access your dashboard.
Transferring to Nelnet.
Due to continuing developments, Great Lakes is shifting its loan servicing portfolio to Nelnet. If your loans are moved, you will need to open a new account with Nelnet to continue managing them. You will be alerted two weeks before the transfer and must change your payment options and contact information on Nelnet’s platform.
Great Lakes Customer Support
If you have any problems during the sign up process or when maintaining your account, please call Great Lakes customer care at (800) 236 4300. For foreign students, call (608) 246-1700. For more assistance, please visit the MyGreatLakes website’s support page.
Conclusion
Signing up for a MyGreatLakes account is an important step towards efficiently managing your federal student loans. MyGreatLakes assists borrowers in meeting their loan obligations by providing simple access to loan information, payment management, and a variety of repayment choices. Follow the steps in this tutorial to set up your account and take control of your student loans now.
FAQs
Q1. How do I reset my MyGreatLakes password?
Ans: Click “Forgot my Password” on the login page and follow the prompts to reset it.
Q2. What if my MyGreatLakes account is locked?
Ans: Wait a few minutes and then try resetting your password or contact customer support.
Q3. Can I set up automatic payments on MyGreatLakes?
Ans: Yes, you can enroll in autopay through your online account to automatically deduct payments.
Q4. How do I contact MyGreatLakes customer support?
Ans: Call (800) 236-4300 for assistance or visit the support page on the MyGreatLakes website.
Q5. What should I do if my loans are transferred to Nelnet?
Ans: Set up a new account on Nelnet’s platform and update your payment preferences and contact information​.