Amber,
Sorry to hear about your situation, I wish you and your husband the best, and applaud him for his willingness to serve his country. I don't have much that will help you with this, except to say that I know at least 2 branches of the millitary (AF & Army) offer to pay up to XXXX on student loans when you enlist (I'd heard 20k), likewise, you may find your husband can achieve relief through the GI bill programs. I'd check there first to see if either of those 2 things are options for the actual debt amount, and I'd also check there about the deferrment options available. My guess is that Sallie Mae is reluctant to talk to anyone when they've washed their hands (administratively at least) by passing it to a CA. The CA is probably only interested in getting paid, not your specific situation. Once you have your answers from the millitary, you'll both be in a better bargaining position, and ready to start dealing with SM and the CA. Although in the meantime, I'd try and find out if SM still owns your account, or if the CA does. Some of the other forum members more knowledgable should be able to help you with specifics, but there's a chance you may even be able to get the accounts to not be negatives with a bit of work.
You may consider posting in the reparing your credit forums, as they seem a bit more active, and may be more helpful in a couple of aspects, although please remember forum rules. Good luck!
