Is Addison Student Loan Debt Consolidation Right for You?
If you've recently graduated from college, or graduated a few years ago and haven't consolidated your loans yet, now is the time to explore Addison student loan debt consolidation. Interest rates on older loans reset annually, so consolidating could save you money. If you're considering consolidating, read this article to determine whether it's appropriate for you, then get a Free Student Loan Consolidation Quote from Bills.com.
The Positive Side of Addison Student Loan Debt Consolidation
Student loans issued between July 1, 1998 and June 30, 2006 have variable interest rates, therefore consolidation has the most advantages for people with those loans. Although the interest rate can't go higher than 8.25% when it resets annually, it can get near that rate if you don't consolidate while the rate is lower.
If you have several loans with varying due dates and similar account numbers, your lender may apply your payment to the wrong loan or you could miss a payment without realizing it. By consolidating into more manageable loans, you can avoid the worry of missing a payment or having it misapplied.
Most lenders offer additional discounts of .25 to .5% off the interest rate if you set-up automatic payments, with an additional 1-2% discount, depending on your loan balance, after 24-36 months of on-time payments. If your loan term is extended to twenty years through consolidation, 1.25% off your rate could save you a lot of money. Interest is still tax deductible for consolidated student loans, so you don't lose the interest rate deduction unless you exceed the income cap.
When should you NOT opt for debt consolidation?
If your loans are close to being paid off, then consolidating doesn't make sense. Any savings you receive from automatic discounts wouldn't be large enough to offset the additional interest you pay by extending your term.
You should only consolidate if you can keep your student loans separate from other loans. Although you could save extra money by rolling your loans into your home loan, you also put your home at risk. Student loans are forgiven at your death, but other loans are not, so your heirs could be stuck with your student loans if they're combined into any other kind of loan. You should avoid consolidating your student loans with your spouse's loans for the same reason. A consolidation lender can't forgive only a part of the loan.
Qualifying for debt consolidation
Qualifying for student loan consolidation is easy if you have a loan balance over $10,000. Research several lenders to compare loan terms, such as repayment terms and discount amounts. When you find a company you like, complete the form and submit it. If you've recently graduated, you can complete the paperwork now, but check the box to delay consolidation until your repayment grace period ends. One month prior to the start of your loan's repayment period, sign up for automatic payment to ensure you receive all the applicable discounts as quickly as possible.
If you have several lenders and payments due at various times of the month, student loan consolidation can simplify your life. With automatic payment and one or two loans, you'll never have to worry about missing a payment again.
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