DW looks at why student loan defaults in the US have surged, what role the end of the payment pause and the SAVE repayment plan have played and who is being affected most.

There are real-life consequences of default: damaged credit scores, difficulties accessing loans or housing, and the possibility of wage garnishment and other government collection measures. Experts say this is not necessarily a warning sign for the wider US economy, but it is creating serious financial difficulties for millions of households.