I have frequently had trouble getting knowledgeable answers from U.S. Department of Education agents assisting me with my student loan questions. In one recent instance, I was given incorrect information which cost me several hundred dollars. When I talked to a manager to rectify the situation, he was unapologetic and soon resorted to threats when I tried to stand up for myself. The quality of their service is much worse than most other places I have to deal with. Sometimes, I get very helpful and knowledgeable agents (one was named Patty), but by the time I get one of them, the damage done by incompetent agents is irreversible. The manager I talked to did not seem interested in taking note of which agents I wanted to point out for excellent service. I can't count the times I've gotten off the phone with the U.S. Department of Education loan people in disbelief of how little they know about what they are doing. Be very careful when dealing with them. Call several times to get different agents to be sure you are getting the right information.