There are several scenarios when identity theft or an unauthorized signature has made responsible for student loan payments.

Wrong name or SSN

If the loan records show a wrong Social Security Number (SSN) or name, you will need to contact the Department of Education (DOE). You will need to show the DOE proof that you aren't the person identified on the loan records.

This usually includes samples of your signature and photocopies of the following:

• Social Security Card,
• Driver's license or government-issued ID card, and
• Passport or birth certificate.

Correct name and SSN

It's possible that the loan has your correct name and SSN, but you did not sign a promissory note for the loan. In that case, you will need to provide examples of your signature from around the time that the loan was made. This may include:

• Tax returns for that year,
• Driver's license issued at that time, and
• Canceled checks that you wrote at that time.

You may also provide proof that you did not attend the school for which the loan was issued. If you can’t provide such proof, you can obtain and submit a report from a handwriting expert.

Previous identity theft

If you have previously been a victim of identity theft which caused you to be wrongly responsible for student loans, you should collect the following information:

• A clear copy of a valid government-issued photo identification card (for example: driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or passport),
• A clear copy of your Social Security Card,
• A written, notarized statement of the events of the alleged fraud,
• A signed, notarized copy of the Certification/Agreement of Cooperation of Identity Theft Claims, and
• A copy of the report you filed with the police or sheriff’s department.

You can also obtain a court judgment showing that you’ve been a victim of identity theft.

In all instances listed above, you should submit the documents to the lender/creditor.