With student loan interest rates set to double on July 1, the student loan debate has grabbed a lot of headlines. At this point in time both the Democrats and the Republicans seem to agree that action needs to be taken. Unfortunately, not everyone has come to the realization that …
My Student Loan Consolidation Issues – Part II
For a brief period of time, I thought I had addressed all of my consolidation issues. My many smaller loans were all paid and I was left with one big giant loan at myfedloan. Then the letter came. I was informed that I had one month until my first bill …
Scam Alert: Protecting Yourself From “Overdraft Protection”
Scam is a harsh term that gets thrown around a little too casually, especially on the internet. However, sometimes it is entirely appropriate. This is one of those times. A Brief History During the worst of the recent recession, banks were charging hefty overdraft fees when a consumer’s spending exceeded …
The Solution to the Student Loan Debt Crisis
Problem Abstract: Much of the national discussion regarding student loan has centered on one type of federal loan. A broader approach is necessary. Goals: The price of college has escalated out of control and needs to be reined in. Borrowers and lenders alike need to be more responsible when it …
Step by Step Guide to Lowering Sallie Mae Interest Rate and Payments
The following eight simple steps will get your Sallie Mae interest rate lowered to 3%, and as a result, lower your monthly payments. Before jumping into the Sallie Mae Rate Reduction Program’s details, it is worth pointing out a couple of essential details. Sallie Mae created the Rate Reduction Program …
Student Loans and Bankruptcy: What the Law Actually Says
There are two prevailing notions among borrowers when it comes to student loans and bankruptcy. The first is that student loans work just like credit cards; if you get too far over your head, you can declare bankruptcy and get a fresh start. The second is that it is impossible …
Getting a Lower Rate from Sallie Mae
Editor’s Note: I originally published this article in March of 2013. Over the years, Sallie Mae (and now Navient) has had different versions of “Rate Reduction” programs. While the name hasn’t changed, the rules seem to vary from borrower to borrower. The tactics mentioned below have helped numerous borrowers over …
My Student Loan Consolidation Adventure
Editor’s Note: I consolidated my massive student loan debt in early 2013. My experience with student loan consolidation was part of why the Student Loan Sherpa came into existence. Over the past few months, I have been working on my own federal student loan consolidation. With well over 100k in …