If you are nearing graduation, you are probably thinking about consolidating your student loans through the Federal Loan Consolidation Program to lower your monthly payments up to 50%. The tips provided below will help you to deal with questions you may have concerning graduation and how to handle your student loans.
How you manage your student loans can have a big impact on your financial future. Following these simple tips will make it easier.
Tip #1 – Don’t let your interest rate go up. Student loan interest rates are variable – they change every July 1st. You can permanently lock in your interest rate by consolidating now.
Tip #2 – Use automatic payments. Most lenders offer a reduced interest rate when your student loan payments are automatically deducted from your checking or savings account. This can add up to big savings. Plus, you won’t have to remember to write a check each month, and your loan payments will always be on time.
Tip #3 – Don’t get behind on your payments. If you are having trouble making your student loan payments, you should immediately contact your loan servicer to find out if you are eligible for deferment or forbearance. Just as with any other loans, late student loan payments will negatively affect your credit.
Tip #4 – Choose the best payment option for you. Multiple payment options are available to student loan borrowers who consolidate. A payment plan that fits your current financial situation can help you keep up with your loans. And, you can switch plans when you need to.
Tip #5 – Get cash back from your student loans. A lender or servicer will often offer borrowers incentives to make their loan payments on time for a specified amount of time. For example, CLC® offers borrowers up to $2,000 cash back after they make nine payments on time.* *