Who should I use for Federal Student Loan Consolidation?

TeachTeach22 asked:


I am looking to consolidate my Federal Student Loans in an effort to reduce my monthly payment (I am in the process of being approved for my first mortgage). Until recently, this wasn’t something I was considering, but now having a lower monthly payment would be great. Any advice on a good company to go through for consolidation? How long does the process typically take? Anything else I should be aware of?

I currently have about $41,000.00 in Federal Student loans (but also have private student loans) so…the lower the payments, the better off we will be. Thanks for your help!