The toughest consequences of late student-loan payments and nonpayments have returned, and many borrowers are buckling — including those who have a track record of paying their bills on time. On Monday,

Missing student loan payments can lower credit scores by varying amounts depending on a borrower's credit. Reduced credit scores lower credit limits and

Student loan debt collection resumes on May 5. Here's how borrowers can prepare to repay loans and get lower monthly payments.