How to Repay a Promissory Loan
If you are a U.S. citizen and found yourself stranded in another country because of a crisis, you can be evacuated by the U.S. government. However, you must complete an Evacuees Manifest and Promissory Note or Form DS-5528 before departure.
What is a Promissory Note?
A promissory note is a legal contract between a borrower and a lender in which an agreement is made between both parties to repay a loan in full. The deal will stipulate the requirements for the loan to be repaid in full. So, in the circumstances of an evacuation, you agree to pay the cost of transportation. Check out allsmallbusiness.com for more information on promissory notes.
What a Promissory Note Contains
The promissory note will contain information about the individuals involved in the agreement. There is much more information, such as:
- Name of the people in the contract (you and the U.S. government)
- The amount to repay
- When and how often payment must be made
- What happens if payment is late
- What happens for non-payment
- The amount of interest on the loan
When to pay back your Promissory Note
Once you complete Form DS-5528 and submit it, you will have 30 days after receiving the bill. If the complete payment is not made within 60 days, you will be charged interest, and any other rate inquired by law. You may arrange for a payment plan if you need time to pay.
What Happens if you don’t pay back?
The promissory note is between you and the U.S. government. The form states the actions that will be enforced if payment is not made on time or not at all. If for any reason you are unable to make the payment in full or by the designated date, you can arrange for a payment plan. However, if your debt is delinquent or in default, you will:
- You will be eligible for a limited validity passport (if payment is not made in full but in good standing)
- You will not qualify for a limited validity passport
- You must pay interest and any cost for collections
