Firstmark Student Loans Services is a third-party loan servicer that helps manage student loans. It doesn’t provide the loan itself. Instead, it handles billing, customer service, payment processing, and other essential services for private lenders and schools.
What type of loan is Firstmark?
Firstmark Services is a private student loan servicer. The company has less-than-ideal customer ratings and has received many complaints about its customer service and payment processing. If Firstmark services your student loan, you can make payments by phone, online or by mail.
Is Firstmark a Legitimate Loan Servicer?
Yes, Firstmark Services is a legit loan servicer. It’s a division of Nelnet, one of the most well-known names in the student loan industry. Many private student loan lenders trust Firstmark to handle loan servicing professionally.
Who Uses Firstmark Student Loans?
You may have a Firstmark student loan if you borrowed from:
- College Ave
- Citizens Bank
- University-based loan programs
- Other private loan providers
If your loan was sold or transferred, you might suddenly find Firstmark handling your account.
How to Create a Firstmark Account
Managing your Firstmark loan starts with account setup. Here’s how:
- Visit the official website: www.firstmarkservices.com
- Click “Create an Account”
- Enter your loan details and personal info
- Set a strong username and password
- Confirm via email
Once done, you can view statements, make payments, and update contact info.
How to Make Payments
Firstmark offers multiple payment options:
- Auto-debit – Save money with interest rate reduction
- Online payments – Quick and easy from your dashboard
- Phone payments – Call their customer service
- Mail-in checks – For traditional payers
You can also pay more than the monthly minimum to reduce total interest.
How to Contact Firstmark Services
Got a question or issue? Here are your options:
- Phone: 1-888-538-7378
- Mail: P.O. Box 82522, Lincoln, NE 68501
- Fax: 877-402-5816
- Online Chat: Via your account dashboard
Make sure to have your account number ready before calling.
Pros and Cons of Firstmark Student Loans
Pros:
- Clear and user-friendly dashboard
- Auto-pay benefits
- Reliable customer support
- Secure payment system
Cons:
- No federal loan servicing
- Occasional account transfer confusion
- No mobile app (as of 2025)
What to Do If You Can’t Afford Payments
Facing financial hardship? You’re not alone. Firstmark may offer:
- Forbearance
- Deferment
- Modified repayment plans
Contact them before you miss a payment to explore your options. This helps protect your credit.
How to Refinance a Firstmark Loan
You can refinance your loan through private lenders like:
- SoFi
- Earnest
- Discover
- LendKey
Refinancing may lower your interest rate and monthly payments. Compare multiple offers to find the best deal.
Avoid Late Fees and Credit Damage
Timely payments are key. Missing payments can result in:
- Late fees
- Credit score drop
- Default status
Set up reminders or auto-pay to stay on track.
Tips to Manage Your Loan Efficiently
- Always review your monthly statement
- Make bi-weekly payments if possible
- Apply tax returns or bonuses to your loan
- Revisit your repayment strategy yearly
Is Firstmark the Same as Nelnet?
Not exactly. Firstmark is a subsidiary of Nelnet. While Nelnet handles federal loans too, Firstmark mainly focuses on private student loans.
Final Thoughts
Firstmark Services is a trusted name in the student loan world. If your loan is serviced by them, you’re in good hands—as long as you stay proactive. Log in regularly, make timely payments, and reach out early if you need help.
FAQS
Q1: Can I consolidate Firstmark loans with federal loans?
No. Private loans serviced by Firstmark can’t be consolidated with federal loans.
Q2: Is there a grace period?
Depends on your lender’s terms. Some private loans offer a 6-month grace period.
Q3: Can I switch servicers?
Only if you refinance through another lender. Otherwise, you must stick with Firstmark.
Q4: Can private student loans be forgiven?
Most private student loans will never be forgiven. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Private lenders aren’t required to forgive loans, so it’s easy to feel stuck.
Q5: Is Firstmark a federal student loan?
No, Firstmark is not a federal student loan servicer. It only handles private student loans
Q6: Does Firstmark refinance student loans?
No, Firstmark Services does not refinance student loans. It acts purely as a loan servicer—they manage billing and customer service but don’t offer refinancing, consolidation, or term modifications