When you are on the homepage, which looks like the photo below, click the Log In button.
Step 3 :
Login using your FSA ID and Password. If you can remember your Username, Password, or both, click the blue link below the information box (to the lower right) and ask the system to help you. If you don’t have a FSA account, the last choice in this box indicates where to click to create an account.
Step 4 :
Once you are logged into your account, carefully review the Warning before you select Accept.
Step 5 :
The next screen takes you to the Student Aid Dashboard. See the graphic below. Chose View Details.
Step 6 :
Your Loan Information is provided on a page called Aid Summary. If you received Grants, that information will be displayed when you chose “Grants” under the Aid Summary. But since you don’t need to repay Grants, you probably don’t need to obtain this information.
On the right-hand side of the page, there is is a link to obtain a file called My Aid Data on the right hand side of this page. While this file is difficult for you to read, it is important to obtain it as it acts as a database for your Attorney’s student loan software. Select “Download My Aid Data” to download this file using the default file name NSLDS.txt. Do not make any changes to this file – just forward it directly to your attorney before you open it to see the contents.
Step 7 :
To complete the download, read the information displayed below and then press the Continue button.
Step 8 :
Clicking the Continue button will download your NSLDS.txt file to your computer.
TIP: The fastest way to view your recent downloads on Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome is to press CTRL+J
⚠️ Important: Save this file in a secure place. Do not open, edit, or resave the original file — your
attorney needs this original file to interact with her software and to provide you with an accurate
analysis. Of course, you may download another copy of this file (or as many other copies as you wish) to
use. You must provide the attorney with an untouched file, as any changes made to it may corrupt it and
prevent us from accessing it.
Next Steps
Feel free to schedule an appointment with Attorney Dorothy Bounce
This file shows all your federal loans in one place.
This file includes information about your loan balances, interest rates, and statuses.
This file is required to use a professional software-based legal analysis.
This file helps your lawyer determine your eligibility for loan forgiveness, repayment plans, or bankruptcy.
This file is not easily understandable without access to professional software. However, the professional software is expensive and is generally not available to the public.
âś… FAQ
❓ Loan Data Guide – FAQ
Q: What is the “My Aid Data” file?
A: It’s a downloadable report from studentaid.gov that lists all your federal student loans, balances, repayment status, and history.
Q: Why do I need this file before meeting with a lawyer?
A: It gives your attorney a complete and accurate snapshot of your loans. This allows us to run your data through student loan software and quickly identify repayment, settlement, or forgiveness options.
Q: Is it safe to download my loan data?
A: Yes — as long as you do it from a secure internet connection (not public Wi-Fi or your phone’s hotspot). Always store the file safely and avoid editing it.
Q: How long does it take to get the My Aid Data file?
A: Usually less than 10 minutes. Just log in, select “View Details,” and then click “Download My Aid Data.”
Q: What happens if I can’t download the file?
A: If you run into issues, we can walk you through the process during your consultation. Just bring your FSA ID and password so we can guide you securely.
Q: Do private student loans show up in the My Aid Data file?
A: No — the file only covers federal loans. If you have private loans, bring any statements or servicer correspondence with you separately.
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