Sunday, July 19, 2009

Things You Should Know About Student Loan Debt Consolidation

The average American by the time he graduates or becomes a professional, and in the worst case scenario even if he doesn't graduate, accumulates a certain level of student loan debt. Whether they are federal loans or private student loans, the higher the educational achievement is the higher the level of student loan debt usually becomes.

That is the price students have to pay to make their dreams come true - to become a doctor, a nurse, a lawyer, or a Wall Street hotshot, student loan debt consolidation have been a major resource for so many years students spend in school. Usually, students have to pay off these multiple student loans the minute they finish school. Some however, have opted to pay for accrual of interest even when in school, and some have opted to defer payments until they get out of school.

No matter what the choice is, by the time an average American student finishes school, he is saddled with student loan debt. Not paying these student loans is not an option - defaulting on a federal student loan will get the government on your case with your salary and will not do any good to your credit report. As a rising hotshot, the last thing you need is to start off with a bad credit. If you are having difficulties making payments on your student loans, it might be the time to consider a student loan debt consolidation.

Before making that decision, there are several things you need to consider. When you consolidate, you actually have to consider some advantages and disadvantages. A student loan debt consolidation can significantly reduce your monthly payments because the debt is stretched out over longer payment terms. It would seem like you are making some savings from your monthly budget because of the additional money cut out from the required monthly payment.

Consolidation would also prevent you from defaulting on your student loans and ruining your credit. With monthly payments, it becomes easier for you to manage your credit and you get to save your credit report. But there is also the bad side to consolidating student loans, and knowing all these facts would help you make the wiser choice.

When you consolidate your student loan debts, always remember that many lenders actually offer a deferment plan to their borrowers in times of financial hardship. Federal student loans offer forbearance during financial difficulties. But if it is still not enough to get you back on your feet, then forbearance or deferment of payment may not help. Another thing to consider is the fact that once you apply for consolidation, you will get stuck with the interest rate you sign up with and you lose out on any borrower benefits provided by your lender.

Before opting for a student loan debt consolidation, carefully consider your options. Seeking financial advice from experienced credit counselors can be very helpful. Being honest to yourself would make the choice easier. Lastly, always opt for a plan that suits your financial situation.

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