Academia: Student Loans

So, you had to get loans to make it through school, for whatever reason. Now it's time to repay them, oh joy!

Bad news - Student loans are relentless and the interest will start racking up if you don't pay them off. You need to get a job!

Good news - You will build your credit by paying these off. Oh, and you have a degree of your choice!

My Two Cents

  • PAY IT BACK! Don't be a punk. Pay them back and make it a priority
  • Pick a plan that you can handle, but also try and push the limits so you can pay it off fast
  • I don't care much for the repayment plan that starts small, as it means more interest and possibly a need to change jobs
  • CONSOLIDATE - You usually get cut a better deal and it is easier when you have only one leech to worry about
  • THINK AHEAD - Watch your financial future; if you are going to need a deferment, get the paperwork going early
  • AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL - Often, it translates into a better deal and it helps keep you on track
  • START OUT STRONG - Often, there are interest cuts and/or deals tied to a good initial re-payment history

Student Loan Repayment Resources

  • Direct Loans
    • Direct Loans Servicing
      • get real-time account information,
      • view your payment history online,
      • send e-mail to the Servicing Center,
      • prequalify for a deferment or forbearance,
      • download deferment and forbearance forms, and
      • get real-time payoff quotes.
    • Direct Loans Consolidation

 

Questions? Comments? Please let me know via my questions/comments form!