By the time someone is in school or finished with school, the pressure is high enough to quick get a job, family and the happy American life one is expected to have after graduation. The stress of paying off student debt can make the building of that desired life a difficult task.
Depending on what is most important to the emotional and financial stability of student loan borrowers, it can be extremely helpful for them to do thorough research into the various debt repayment plans. Business Week reports that there is at least one repayment avenue that many borrowers might be overlooking.
Income-based repayment plans make for different monthly payment amounts for each borrower, based on his or her income at the time. The idea behind IBRs is that they allow borrowers to pay back and not default on their loans but do so in a way that fits realistically in with their monthly budgets.
IBR plans are for federal student loans and should be discussed with a tax or legal professional in order for a borrower to fully understand the long-term implications of the program. Sometimes, if a plan sounds too good to be true, it is. Generally speaking, those with student loan debt can benefit by shopping around for different repayment plans.
Every person’s situation is different; a plan that might be best for a buddy might not be the best for you. Perhaps any type of repayment seems impossible given other debts that are owed and bankruptcy is the only remedy. Depending on the situation, a personal bankruptcy attorney might be able to help create a financial situation that you can live with.
Business Week, “The U.S. Has a Really Helpful Student Loan Repayment Program-and No One’s Using It,” Karen Weise, Aug. 7, 2013
