3 Ways to Save on Your Student Loans

Not all student loan repayment plans are the same and there are a number of plans to choose from. A typical repayment plan for student loans is a standard plan, requiring fixed payments for a period of up to 10 years. However, if you are a low-income worker, there are other repayment options adjusted for your income. These plans, which take place over a longer time period, include income-based repayment, pay-as-you-earn repayment and income-contingent repayment. Do your research and check out your options before selecting a plan that works for your financial budget.

If you have multiple student loans, consolidating them groups them into one monthly payment instead of multiple separate payments. When loans are consolidated, they effectively become a new single loan with an adjusted repayment time frame. The interest rate becomes the average of the interest rate of each loan, and most federal student loans can be consolidated easily. If you have private student loans, then student loan refinancing is option with a private lender. The best student loan refinancing companies will work with you to find terms and repayment plans that work for you.

The sooner you make each payment, the sooner you will be relieved of your debt. Accidentally extending the length of your repayment period will result in increased interest rates and larger fees to repay. Once you have decided which repayment plan is right for you, figure out the best way for you to make payments. In addition to checks and money orders, most student loan services accept online payments, smartphone payments, phone payments and direct debit payments. Sometimes you can even see if they take credit card payments. The lenders seek to make your payments routine and regular.

Now that you know the basics about student loan repayments, the world is yours. Lots of people struggle to pay off their education, but with a little knowledge and planning, the repayment process will feel easier.