Aaron Williams

TL;DR: A FFEL PLUS Loan is a federal education loan from the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) program, which was active until 2010. It includes Parent PLUS Loans for parents of dependent undergraduate students and Graduate PLUS Loans for graduate students. These loans are issued by private lenders with federal government backing. Navigating the world […]

TL;DR: A FFEL Federal Stafford Loan was a federal student loan offered through private lenders until 2010, with both subsidized and unsubsidized options. Unlike today’s Direct Loans, FFEL loans don’t qualify for certain forgiveness programs, like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), unless consolidated into a Direct Loan. Borrowers with FFEL loans should consider consolidation to […]

TL;DR: Direct Subsidized Loans are need-based, with the government covering interest while you’re in school, making them a lower-cost option if you qualify. Direct Unsubsidized Loans, available to more students (including graduate students), start accruing interest immediately, resulting in potentially higher costs. If you qualify for both, subsidized is usually the better choice for reducing […]

TL;DR: A consolidation loan combines multiple debts into one manageable loan, often with a fixed interest rate and a single monthly payment. This can simplify your finances, potentially lower interest costs, and improve your credit score if managed well. However, consider the potential risks, like longer repayment terms or collateral requirements, before deciding if it’s […]

TL;DR: Student loan deferment and forbearance are options that allow borrowers to pause or reduce payments. Deferment is often best for those with specific qualifying hardships, as interest on subsidized loans doesn’t accrue, potentially saving money long-term. Forbearance is easier to qualify for but comes with interest accrual on all loans, increasing total costs. For […]