You are responsible for paying your University charges in full and on time.
If your account becomes past due, you may receive billing and collection notices. Unpaid accounts for former students or non‑students may be referred to an outside collection agency and reported to national credit bureaus. Collection fees of 25%–50% of the balance may apply as allowed by Washington law.
For current students, unpaid balances may result in:
- Registration holds
- Withheld transcripts or diplomas
- Loss of University services
The University follows federal accuracy and integrity rules for credit reporting and reviews all valid credit disputes.
Students are responsible for monitoring their student account and ensuring payments are made on time.
If an account becomes delinquent:
- Registration blocks may be applied
- Enrollment services and diploma release may be withheld
- The account may be referred to an outside collection agency
Collections may include:
- Collection fees
- Attorney’s fees
- Additional related costs, as allowed by law
Delinquent accounts referred to collections may be reported to credit bureaus and could negatively impact your credit history.
Most billing issues are preventable. Avoid these common mistakes to prevent late fees, holds, or unexpected charges:
- Waiting for a paper bill; Billing statements are not mailed.
- Relying on email reminders; Notifications are a courtesy, not a guarantee.
- Assuming financial aid covers your entire balance; Aid may not cover all charges or may not apply before the deadline.
- Missing the first‑day payment deadline; Tuition is due the first day of classes.
- Waiting for course fee adjustments; Pay tuition by published deadlines to avoid late fees.
- Assuming dropping a class lowers tuition automatically; Full‑time tuition generally applies to 10–18 credits.
- Adding classes late without immediate payment; Late adds must be paid immediately.
- Not granting Third Party Access; Parents and others cannot view billing details without authorization.
- Ignoring small balances or returned payments; Even small amounts can result in holds or collections.
Best Practice:
Check your student account in myWSU weekly, pay by published deadlines, and review the Academic Calendar each term to stay in good financial standing.
Students and General Account Holders
Unpaid accounts for former students or non‑students may be referred to an outside collection agency and reported to national credit bureaus. In accordance with RCW 19.16.500, reasonable collection costs and attorney’s fees may be assessed. Additional collection fees typically range from 25%–50% of the outstanding balance.
The University may pursue all lawful collection methods, which may include legal action and could result in a judgment and/or wage garnishment.
Current students may have services withheld until balances are resolved.
Accounts that are 120 days past due are referred to the Collection Department.
Past‑due notices are sent at 60, 90, 120, and 150 days. Collection staff may attempt phone contact and, when needed, obtain a credit bureau report to support collection efforts.
Accounts that reach 150 days past due are assessed a 25% collection fee charged to the originating department.
Loans that are 150 days past due are referred to an outside collection agency. The University contracts with multiple agencies to perform these services.
Borrowers may be assessed additional collection fees of 25%–50%. Collection efforts may include legal action and could result in a judgment and/or wage garnishment.
Every reasonable effort is made to contact borrowers and establish a repayment plan before referral.
The University reports credit activity to Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion in compliance with federal regulations.
- Student Accounts / Accounts Receivable are reported if referred to an outside collection agency.
- Federal Perkins and Health Profession Loans are reported at first disbursement and updated monthly.
The University complies with the Federal Trade Commission’s Accuracy and Integrity Rules, requiring that reported information:
- Accurately reflects account terms and balances
- Reflects payment, deferment, or entitlement activity
- Correctly identifies the borrower
Updates are submitted monthly using industry‑standard reporting formats.
Submitting a Dispute
Consumers may dispute credit information directly with the University.
Disputes must include:
- Account number
- Name, address, and phone number
- Description of the disputed information
- Supporting documentation, if applicable
All valid disputes are reviewed. If corrections are needed, updates are sent to the credit bureaus and a response is provided to the consumer.
Frivolous or Duplicate Disputes
The University may decline to investigate disputes that:
- Lack required identifying or account information, or
- Duplicate a previously resolved dispute
Consumers will be notified within five business days and advised if additional information is needed.
Student FAQ (Quick Answers)
Yes. Registration may be withheld until balances are resolved.
Yes. Even small amounts can result in holds or collections.
Contact the University early to discuss options and avoid referral.
Accounts sent to collections may be reported and can affect your credit score.