If you’re thinking about refinancing your student loans, you probably heard that interest rates are low — or at least lower than what you’re paying. Maybe you’re looking to pay down your loans faster, or maybe you’d just like to lower your monthly student loan payments.
Of course, if your student loans are federally held, you haven’t had to make payments since the passage of the CARES Act last year. And thanks to President Joe Biden’s executive order, the payment holiday, which includes 0% interest, has been extended through Jan. 31, 2022. Yet the pause is finite (despite multiple extensions) while interest rates could rise before the holiday ends. There’s also the option of consolidation to take into account.
Clearly, knowing if — and when — to refinance is not a simple decision. These answers to some frequently asked questions about federal student loan refinancing may help you decide what’s right for you.
Related: How to get out of student loan debt: 6 options
What Is Federal Student Loan Refinancing?
If you graduated with student loans, you may have a combination of private and federal student loans, the latter of which are loans funded by the federal government. Direct Subsidized Loans or Direct PLUS Loans are both examples of federal student loans.
Interest rates on federal student loans are fixed and set by the government annually, whereas private student loan rates are set by individual lenders. If you’re unhappy with your current interest rates, you may be able to refinance your student loans with a private lender and a new — ideally, lower — interest rate.
Can I Refinance My Federal Student Loans?
It is possible to refinance federal student loans with a private lender. However, when you refinance a federal student loan into a private loan, you lose the benefits and protections that come with a federal loan, like deferment and public service-based loan forgiveness, which are worth keeping in mind. However, the new loan could mean paying less interest over the life of the loan and paying off loans sooner.
How Are Refinancing and Consolidation Different?
Student loan consolidation and student loan refinancing are not the same things, but it’s easy to confuse the two. In both cases, you’re essentially signing new loan terms on a new loan to replace your old student loans.
Consolidation takes your student loans and bundles them together. Different servicers manage direct consolidation loans, allowing federal borrowers to repay with one monthly bill. Consolidation, however, does not typically get you a lower interest rate (you’ll see why in the next paragraph). Refinancing, on the other hand, takes your old loans and finances them at new interest rates with a private lender.
When you consolidate federal student loans through the Direct Consolidation Loan program, the resulting interest rate is the weighted average of the original loans’ rates, rounded up to the nearest eighth of a percent, which means you don’t usually save any money there. If your monthly payment goes down, it’s usually the result of lengthening the loan term, which means you’ll spend more on total interest in the long run.
When you refinance federal and/or private student loans, you’re given a new — ideally, better, if you qualify — interest rate based on your financial profile. That lower rate can translate into total interest savings, or you may be able to lower your monthly payments or choose to shorten your payment term.
Recommended: Student loan consolidation vs. refinancing
What Are Potential Benefits to Refinancing Federal Student Loans?
1. Potential Savings in Interest
The main benefit is potential savings. If you refinance federal loans at a lower interest rate, you could save thousands over the life of the new loan. Plus, you may be able to switch out your fixed-rate loan for a variable rate loan if that makes more financial sense for you (more on variable rates below).
2. Lower Monthly Payments
You can also lower your monthly payments, which typically means lengthening your term and accepting a higher interest rate, or shorten your term (this typically means higher monthly payments but more total interest savings).
3. Streamlining Repayments
Refinancing multiple loans into a single loan can help streamline the repayment process. Instead of multiple loan payments with different lenders, refinancing allows you to streamline to a single monthly payment with one lender.
Not sure which route to take with your student debt? Use our Student Loan Help Center to explore your options.
What Are Potential Disadvantages to Refinancing Federal Loans?
When you refinance federal loans with a private lender, you lose the benefits and protections that come with government-held student loans. Those benefits fall into three main categories:
1. Deferment/Forbearance
Most federal loans will allow borrowers to put payments on hold through deferment or forbearance when they are experiencing financial hardship. Student loan deferment allows you to pause subsidized loan payments without accruing interest, while unsubsidized loans will still accrue interest. Student loan forbearance allows you to reduce or pause payments, but interest usually accrues during the forbearance period. Some private lenders do offer forbearance; so check lender policies before refinancing.
2. Special Repayment Plans
Federal loans offer extended, graduated, and income-driven repayment plans (such as Pay As You Earn, or PAYE), which allow you to make payments based on your discretionary income. It’s important to note that these plans typically cost more in total interest over the life of the loan and that private lenders do not offer these programs.
3. Potential Student Loan Forgiveness
Some federal student loans are eligible for forgiveness under certain circumstances. Common forgiveness programs are for public service workers or teachers, or those who’ve participated in an income-driven repayment plan for 20 or 25 years, depending on the plan. There is also talk on Capitol Hill of canceling some amount of student loans ($10,000 and $50,000 are figures that have been proposed). Private loans generally do not offer forgiveness.
Potential Advantages of Refinancing Federal Student Loans
- Interest Rate: Opportunity to qualify for a lower interest rate, which may result in cost savings over the long term; option to select a variable rate, if preferable for individual financial circumstances.
- Adjust Loan Term: Get a lower monthly payment, usually by extending the loan term, which could make loan payments easier to budget for, but may make the loan more expensive in the long term.
- Get a single monthly payment: Combining existing loans into a new refinanced loan can help streamline monthly repayment.
Potential Disadvantages Refinancing Federal Student Loans
- Loss of deferment or forbearance options: These programs allow borrowers to temporarily pause their payments during periods of financial difficulty.
- Federal Repayment Plans: No longer eligible for special repayment plans, such as income-driven repayment plans.
- Loan Forgiveness: Elimination from federal forgiveness programs, including Public Service Loan forgiveness.
FAQs Around Refinancing Your Federal Loans
Who Typically Chooses Federal Student Loan Refinancing?
Many borrowers who refinance are refinancing graduate student loans since federal unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans have historically offered less competitive rates than federal student loans for undergraduates.
In order to qualify for a lower interest rate, it’s helpful to show strong income and a history of managing credit responsibly, among other factors. The one thing many refinance borrowers have in common is a desire to save money.
1. Do I Need a High Credit Score to Refinance Federal Loans?
Generally speaking, the better your history of dealing with debt (illustrated by your credit score), the lower your new interest rate may be, regardless of the lender you choose. While many lenders look at credit score as part of their analysis, however, it’s not the single defining factor. Underwriting criteria will vary and is different from lender to lender, which means it can pay to shop around.
2. Are There Any Fees Involved in Refinancing Federal Loans?
Fees vary and depend on the lender.
3. Should I Choose a Fixed or Variable Rate Loan?
Most federal loans are fixed-rate, meaning the interest rate stays the same over the life of the loan. When you apply to refinance, you may be given the option to choose a variable rate loan.
Here’s what you should know:
Fixed-Rate Refinancing Loans Typically Have:
- A rate that stays the same throughout the life of the loan
- A higher rate than variable rate refinancing loans (at least at first)
- Payments that stay the same over the life of the loan
Variable Rate Refinancing Loans Typically Have:
- A rate that’s tied to an “index” rate, such as the prime rate or LIBOR
- A lower initial rate than fixed-rate refinancing loans
- Payments and total interest cost that change based on interest rate changes
- A cap, or maximum interest rate
Generally speaking, a variable rate loan can be a cost-saving option if you’re reasonably certain you can pay off the loan somewhat quickly. The more time it takes to pay down that debt, the more opportunity there is for the index rate to rise — taking your loan’s rate with it.
4. What Happens If I Lose My Job or Can’t Make Loan Payments for Other Reasons?
Some private lenders offer forbearance — the ability to put loans on hold— in cases of financial hardship. Policies vary by lender, so it’s best to learn what they are before you refinance. For policies on disability forbearance, it’s best to check with the lender directly, as this is often considered on a case-by-case basis.
5. Do Refinance Lenders Allow Co-Signers/Co-Signer Release Options?
Many private lenders do allow co-signers and some allow co-signer release options.
The Takeaway
Is refinancing the right option for you? It depends on how much you may save (to get an idea, use our student loan refinancing calculator) and whether you qualify for a lower interest rate from a student loan refinance.
Another important factor to weigh is how likely you are to use the benefits and protections that come with having federal student loans. In general, many borrowers refinance federal graduate student loans and PLUS loans, since those have historically offered less competitive rates.
You should explore and compare federal and private loan options, terms and features to determine what is best for you and your situation.
Learn More:
- Pros & cons of paying off student loans early
- What happens if you just stop paying your student loans
This article
originally appeared on SoFi.com and was
syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
*Guaranteed Rate Match Offer: Your pre-qualified rate, and the rate match program itself, are conditional upon our verification of your application information, including verification of sufficient income to support an ability to repay. Eligible documentation of a competitor’s rate offer, issued within 30 days of your SoFi pre-qualified rate, will be determined at SoFi’s sole discretion and must be for the same loan amount and term. SoFi will only match rate offers for private student loan refinance products. The match will be on the rate, exclusive of all discounts. The $100 Rate Match Bonus is not available to residents of Ohio. To receive the $100 Rate Match Bonus, you must: (1) register and/or apply for a student loan refinance (2) provide documentation of an eligible competitive rate offer; (3) call at (855) 456-SOFI (7634) or chat on SoFi.com and follow the instructions to send in your proof of lower rate; (4) have and provide a valid US bank account to receive bonus; (5) complete Form W-9; (6) and meet SoFi’s underwriting criteria and book a student loan refinance with SoFi. Once conditions are met and the loan has been disbursed, you will receive your Rate Match bonus via automated clearing house (ACH) into your checking account within 30 calendar days. Bonuses that are not redeemed within 180 calendar days of the date they were made available to the recipient may be subject to forfeit. Bonus amounts of $600 or greater in a single calendar year may be reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as miscellaneous income to the recipient on Form 1099-MISC in the year received as required by applicable law. Recipient is responsible for any applicable federal, state or local taxes associated with receiving the bonus offer; consult your tax advisor to determine applicable tax consequences. Additional terms and conditions may apply. SoFi may discontinue this program at any time.
SoFi Student Loan Refinance
IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO REFINANCE FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS PLEASE BE AWARE OF RECENT LEGISLATIVE CHANGES THAT HAVE SUSPENDED ALL FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS AND WAIVED INTEREST CHARGES ON FEDERALLY HELD LOANS UNTIL THE END OF JANUARY 2022 DUE TO COVID-19. PLEASE CAREFULLY CONSIDER THESE CHANGES BEFORE REFINANCING FEDERALLY HELD LOANS WITH SOFI, SINCE IN DOING SO YOU WILL NO LONGER QUALIFY FOR THE FEDERAL LOAN PAYMENT SUSPENSION, INTEREST WAIVER, OR ANY OTHER CURRENT OR FUTURE BENEFITS APPLICABLE TO FEDERAL LOANS. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Notice: SoFi refinance loans are private loans and do not have the same repayment options that the federal loan program offers such as Income-Driven Repayment plans, including Income-Contingent Repayment or PAYE. SoFi always recommends that you consult a qualified financial advisor to discuss what is best for your unique situation.
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Private vs. federal student loans
Getting accepted to college may seem exciting on the surface, but in reality, it’s only half the battle. After you’ve filled out your applications and decided on a school, you’ll then need to fund your college education (which can quickly dampen the excitement of getting accepted).
There are a few different options when it comes to financing a college education, and it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each. Then, you’ll likely be better able to develop a funding strategy that fits your unique situation.
Depending on your academic qualifications, you may have been awarded scholarships or grants, which is funding that won’t (typically) need to be repaid. Any expenses not covered by a scholarship will need to be financed, often through a combination of work-study, personal funds, or student loans.
It is fairly common for college students to take out student loans to finance their education. There are two main types of student loans: private student loans and federal ones.
We’ll compare and contrast some of the more popular features of both private and federal student loans and explore some features that can help you determine what makes the most sense for your financial situation.
Related: A guide to private student loans
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Federal student loans are funded by the federal government and, in order to qualify, you must fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year that you want to receive federal student loans. We’ll delve more into FAFSA soon — but first, here are some important distinct
ions to consider.
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Federal loans can be subsidized or unsubsidized. If you’re an undergraduate student and you have a certain level of financial need, you may qualify for a subsidized loan. The amount of money you qualify for will be determined by your school. They’ll also determine how much money you should receive in subsidized loans, if any.
If you are granted a subsidized loan, the U.S. government will cover, or subsidize, the cost of accrued interest on the loan while you are a full- or half-time student.
Your interest payments are also covered with subsidized loans during the six-month grace period after graduation as well as during any periods of loan deferment.
If you receive unsubsidized federal loans, you will not need to demonstrate financial need when applying and, as with subsidized loans, your school will determine the amount you can receive, based on what it will cost you to attend.
But with unsubsidized loans, you are responsible for the principal amount of the loan as well as any interest that accrues throughout the life of the loan.
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Direct PLUS Loans are another source of federal student loan funding. To qualify for graduate PLUS Loans, you need to be a graduate-level or professional student in a program that offers graduate or professional degrees or certifications and be attending college at least half-time.
Or parents can also apply for a parent PLUS loan if they’re the parent of a dependent undergraduate student attending an eligible school at least half-time. “Parent” can be defined as biological or adoptive — or, under certain circumstances, you can be a step-parent.
To obtain a Direct PLUS loan, you cannot have an adverse credit history (you can learn more about that here). Plus, you (and, if applicable, your dependent child) must meet the general eligibility requirements for federal student aid.
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If you plan to apply for any of these types of federal loans, you’ll need to fill out the FAFSA form. Be aware of your state’s deadline — FAFSA funding is determined on a rolling basis, so the sooner you can apply, the sooner you may qualify.
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First off, you won’t be responsible for making student loan payments while you are actively enrolled in school. Your repayment will typically begin after you graduate, leave school, or are enrolled less than half-time. Interest rates on federal student loans made after July 1, 2006 are fixed and are typically lower than interest rates on private student loans.
And depending on the type of federal loans you have, the interest you pay could be tax deductible. Aside from Direct PLUS Loans,credit history doesn’t factor into a federal loan application. When it comes to federal student loan repayment, there are several options to choose from, including several income-driven repayment plans.
And if you run into difficulty repaying your federal student loans after graduation or when you drop below half-time enrollment, there are deferment and forbearance options available.
These programs allow qualifying borrowers to temporarily pause payments on their loans should they run into financial issues, but interest may still accrue. The loan type will inform whether a borrower qualifies for deferment or forbearance.
Borrowers can contact their student loan servicer for more information on these programs.
Qualifying borrowers can also enroll in certain forgiveness programs, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). These programs have strict requirements, so borrowers who are pursuing forgiveness should review program details closely.
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The CARES Act, passed in March 2020 in response to COVID-19, includes provisions to help borrowers with federal student loan repayment. The bill temporarily pauses payments on most federal student loans, without interest, through the end of September 2021.
Additionally, the CARES Act suspends involuntary collections and negative credit reporting during the same time period.
While required payments are paused, borrowers are still able to make payments on their loans if they so choose. 100% of payments made during this time will be applied to the principal balance of the loan.
Borrowers enrolled in forgiveness programs will not be impacted by the nonpayment of their loans during this time. The Education Department will consider this time period as if the borrower had continued making payments.
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Private student loans are not funded by the government. To apply for them, you can check with individual lenders (banks, credit unions, and the like), with the college or university you’ll be attending, or state loan agencies.
Because these loans are available from multiple sources, and each will come with its own terms and conditions. So, when applying for private student loans, it’s important to clearly understand annual percentage rates (APRs) and repayment terms before signing as well as the differences between private vs federal student loans.
Since private student loans are not associated with the federal government, their repayment terms and benefits vary from lender to lender. Some private loans require payments while you’re still attending college.
Unlike federal loans, interest rates could be fixed or variable. If you are applying for a variable-rate loan, it’s a good idea to check to see how often the interest rate can change, plus how much it can change each time, and what the maximum interest rate can be.
When applying for a private loan, the lender typically reviews your financial history and credit score, which means it may be beneficial to have a cosigner.
Again, be sure to ask your lender about repayment options in addition to any deferment or forbearance options.
These will all vary by lender, so it’s important to understand the terms of the particular loan you are applying for.
Private loans can help fill the monetary gap between what you’re able to cover with grants, scholarships, federal loans and the like, and what you owe to attend college. It’s never a bad idea to take the time to do your research, shop around, and find the best loan options for your personal financial situation.
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To find out if the student loan you have is a federal student loan, one option is to check the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS).
This database, run by the Department of Education, is a collection of information on student loans, aggregating data from information about student loans, aggregating data from universities, federal loan programs and more.
Borrowers with federal student loans can also log into My Federal Student Aid to find information about their student loan including the federal loan servicer.
Private student loans are administered by private companies. To confirm information on a private student loan, one option is to look at your loan statements and contact your loan servicer.
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After graduation, depending on one’s student loan situation, borrowers may wish to consider consolidation or refinancing options to combine their various loans into a single loan.
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The federal government offers the Direct Consolidation Loan program that allows borrowers to combine all of their federal loans into one consolidated loan.
Loans consolidated in this program receive a new interest rate that is the weighted average of the interest rates of all loans being consolidated — rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of a percent.
This means that the actual interest rate isn’t necessarily reduced when consolidated. If monthly payments are reduced, it is most likely because the repayment term has been lengthened.
Additionally, only federal student loans are eligible for consolidation in the Direct Consolidation Loan program.
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Borrowers with private student loans might consider refinancing their loans. Essentially, refinancing is taking out a new loan. Depending upon individual financial situations, applicants could qualify for a lower interest rate through refinancing.
When an individual applies to refinance with a private lender, there is typically a credit check of some kind. Each lender reviews specific borrower criteria, which varies from lender to lender, which influences the rate and terms an applicant may qualify for.
But what if you have both federal and private loans? If you combine your federal loans through the Direct Consolidation Loan program and refinanced your private loans, you’d still have two payments.
Learn more:
This article
originally appeared on SoFi.com and was
syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO REFINANCE FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS PLEASE BE AWARE OF RECENT LEGISLATIVE CHANGES THAT HAVE SUSPENDED ALL FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS AND WAIVED INTEREST CHARGES ON FEDERALLY HELD LOANS UNTIL THE END OF SEPTEMBER DUE TO COVID-19. PLEASE CAREFULLY CONSIDER THESE CHANGES BEFORE REFINANCING FEDERALLY HELD LOANS WITH SOFI, SINCE IN DOING SO YOU WILL NO LONGER QUALIFY FOR THE FEDERAL LOAN PAYMENT SUSPENSION, INTEREST WAIVER, OR ANY OTHER CURRENT OR FUTURE BENEFITS APPLICABLE TO FEDERAL LOANS. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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