Never screw up with student loan. Even if it is private, they have right to garnish her pay check . Student loan are different than credit cards loan.So it is better to send the letter of financial hardship to them so they will adjust the minimum payment for sometime. I am assuming it as a private loan.Once you are in a default they will charge you lots of interest and fees. Student loan company don't need to take your wife to court for garnishment.Changing   phone number don't work for student loan.