NEW USER-FRIENDLY SYSTEM FOR PHEAA/AES CALLERS

Harrisburg, Dec. 23, 2003 – State Sen. Connie Williams announced that a new voice response system is now available, which will make utilizing American Education Services and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency loan guaranty and grants toll-free services easier.

“New technology that is voice-activated will allow students to speak their responses, rather than using touch-tone features, making the system even easier to use,” Williams said. “Best of all, this service is convenient and can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Information is provided in the same manner that a live representative would. The system uses voice recognition software. Also added was a security feature that allows callers to access their accounts by entering either their AES/PHEAA account number or Social Security number.

Once the account is accessed the caller can receive detailed information on loans, grants, special programs and servicer information. The system can be used to check the status of an application, disbursement dates and amounts, cancellations and billing information.

The new system can be accessed by calling (800) 692-7392.

Customer service representatives will be available during office hours, Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

As a service to her constituents, Williams also has informational brochures on PHEAA and AES programs available at her offices: 700 S. Henderson Road, Suite 100A, King of Prussia (610-992-9790) or Manoa Shopping Center, Suite 39, 1305 West Chester Pike, Havertown (610-853-5433).