Personal loans are typically not considered to be income and are therefore not taxed by the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS.
Personal loans can be a useful, flexible source of a lump sum of cash to put towards everything from a major medical bill to a home renovation project to a summer vacation. But you may wonder whether that cash infusion is considered income and therefore subject to taxes.
Fortunately, a personal loan is usually not considered income, though there are some exceptions that could impact borrowers during tax season. Here’s a closer look.
• Personal loan funds are generally not considered income and are not taxed by the IRS.
• If a personal loan is partially or fully forgiven, the canceled debt may be treated as taxable income.
• Interest on personal loans is typically not tax-deductible, unlike some other types of loans.
• Formal loan forgiveness will usually trigger a 1099-C form and must be reported on your tax return.
Does a Personal Loan Count as Income?
If you take out a personal loan, you may treat the funds the same as you would your paycheck. But as far as the IRS is concerned, any kind of formal loan from a bank or lender with terms that require repayment is considered a debt and is therefore typically not considered income. This distinction is important because it means you may not have to pay taxes on money you receive from a personal loan.
However, there may be tax implications on informal loans from friends and family. For instance, loans above a certain amount must charge interest, which could potentially trigger some tax consequences. Before you enter into any agreement with a loved one, it’s a smart move to consult with an accountant.
While personal loans are generally not considered income and therefore taxable, there are exceptions that borrowers should know about.
If you take out a personal loan and then some or all of the loan debt is forgiven, the amount forgiven could be considered income. It might seem odd for canceled debt to be considered income, but think about it like this: Say you made an extra $5,000 from work and used it to pay off your personal loan. That $5,000 would be considered income, and your loan would be paid off.
However, if you made no extra money but your $5,000 loan was canceled, then you would be in the same financial position in the end. So the IRS considers that forgiven loan debt taxable income.
Once a formal debt is forgiven or canceled, you should receive a Form 1099-C from the lender. According to the IRS, the amount of the canceled debt is taxable and must be reported on your tax return for the year.
There are some exceptions, such as certain qualifying student loan cancellations or personal loans canceled as part of bankruptcy hearings. And that’s where professional tax guidance might come in handy. Another important point to know is that the interest on personal loans is generally not tax-deductible.
What Exactly Is a Personal Loan?
As you’re exploring your options, it helps to understand what a personal loan is and how it works. A personal loan is one of many types of loans offered by banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Personal loans typically range from $1,000 to $100,000, depending on the lender. There are both secured and unsecured personal loans. A secured personal loan means there is some sort of collateral to back the loan.
With an unsecured loan, there is no collateral. Generally, personal loans are unsecured. The terms of the loan—including things like interest rates, origination fees, and repayment schedules—are typically based on an applicant’s financial history, income, debt, and credit score. Because these types of loans aren’t tied to an asset, their interest rates can be higher than secured personal loans but are usually lower than credit cards or payday loans.
Exact eligibility requirements will vary by lender. The loans are then typically paid back with interest in monthly payments over a set schedule; typical repayment terms are extended over anywhere from 12 to 84 months.
Unlike a business loan or a home loan, the uses of an unsecured personal loan include a range of personal expenses, from home renovations to medical bills to consolidating credit card debt.
Applying for a Personal Loan
If you’re thinking about a personal loan, consider starting with this checklist:
• Determine how much money you need.
• Explore all your financial options.
• Research various loans and lenders.
• Choose the type of loan you want.
• Compare interest rates.
If you decide a personal loan is right for you, the application process is relatively straightforward. You may be asked to submit paperwork, like a photo ID, proof of address, and proof of employment or income. Many lenders offer applicants the option to see if they prequalify for a loan, which can give them an idea of the rates and terms available to them.
If you’re planning to use a personal loan to pay off existing debt, you could also use a personal loan calculator to compare payments and rates to see if an unsecured personal loan could potentially help you save money.
A personal loan can provide borrowers with funds for a variety of purposes. Generally speaking, the money isn’t taxable or considered to be income. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, if you take out a personal loan, and some or all of the balance is forgiven, the canceled debt could be considered income.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.
FAQ
Do I report a personal loan as income on taxes?
No, a personal loan usually isn’t considered income as it is a loan that you repay with interest. Even if you receive the funds as a lump sum, it is still debt that you are repaying. However, if your loan is forgiven, you may owe taxes.
Is a personal loan tax-free?
Yes, personal loans are typically tax-free. They are not a form of income but a kind of debt that you repay with interest.
Does a loan from a family member count as income on taxes?
As long as it is properly structured and treated as a loan vs. a gift, a loan from a family member does not count as taxable income.
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Currently, the average cost for one in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle in the United States is $12,400, according to data from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. That alone is a steep price tag, and many patients go through several cycles of IVF before conceiving or attempting other options. Many clinics also charge fees for add-on procedures, which can bring the total cost of a single treatment to well over $20,000.
Fortunately, there are a number of different funding options for fertility treatments. These include budgeting and saving, insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, IVF financing, loans, and grants. Read on for a closer look at ways to make the cost of IVF more manageable.
Key Points
• Check health insurance for IVF coverage, which can significantly reduce costs but varies by state and plan.
• It can be possible to use HSA or FSA funds for eligible IVF expenses, providing a tax-advantaged way to save.
• Budget and save for IVF by setting aside monthly funds and cutting discretionary spending.
• Consider personal loans for IVF financing, which typically offer lower interest rates than credit cards and are unsecured.
• Explore grants from nonprofits to help cover IVF costs.
IVF Financing: 9 Ways to Pay for Treatment
For many prospective parents, the cost of IVF is worth every penny, as it can provide the chance to have children. If you’re wondering how to pay for treatment, consider these option for funding IVF.
1. Tapping into Your Health Insurance
A good first step is to check whether your health insurance will cover IVF. There are currently 21 states and the District of Columbia that require insurance companies to cover infertility treatment, but only 14 include IVF in the requirement.
You can contact your insurer to find out your specific benefits. Depending on where you live, coverage can run the gamut. Some plans will cover IVF but not the accompanying injections that women may also require, while other plans will cover both. Some insurers will only cover a certain number of attempts. And some plans do not cover IVF at all.
If you have the option and if the timing works out with your enrollment period, you might consider switching your insurance plan to one that covers, or partially covers, IVF.
2. Using Your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account
A health savings account (HSA) allows you to put pre-tax money aside for medical expenses. Typically, you get an HSA in tandem with a qualifying high-deductible health plan. If you have funds in your HSA, you can use them to pay for IVF and related medical expenses. As long as you paid for the expenses after you opened the HSA, you can reimburse yourself for them at any time — it doesn’t have to be in the year that you incurred the costs.
If your employer offers a flexible spending account (FSA), you can also use those funds to pay for IVF. You don’t need a qualifying health plan to have and use this account. However, you can only use the funds for medical expenses incurred during the plan year. Also, if you don’t use all of the money you set aside, you generally lose it. However, you may be able to carry over a certain amount to the following year.
Bear in mind that there are annual limits on how much money you can contribute to either kind of account. For 2025, the individual cap on HSA contributions is $4,300 and the family cap is $8,550. Health flexible spending account limits are $3,300 for 2025.
3. Budgeting and Saving
If you’re planning to pay for IVF out-of-pocket and you don’t just have that kind of cash lying around, the most basic financial move is to save up, the way you would for any major expense. You may want to open a high-yield savings account dedicated to your IVF fund, then set up an automatic recurring transfer from your checking account into that account each month.
Depending on your timeline, you may need to cut back on discretionary expenses, such as meals out, streaming services, a gym membership, and non-essential purchases, at least temporarily. Any expense you cut can now get diverted into your IVF savings fund. You may want to investigate different types of budgeting methods to find a system that works best for you in this scenario.
4. Borrowing From a Loved One
If you have a friend or relative who is financially comfortable, you might consider asking them for a loan. There may be people in your life who would be happy to support your efforts to build your family. If you go this route, however, it’s a good idea to set out the terms of the loan clearly, including whether you’ll pay interest and, if so, at what rate, and when and how you’ll repay the loan. Setting out clear terms, and honoring those terms, can help ensure that the loan doesn’t damage your relationship in any way.
5. Applying for a Fertility Loan or IVF Loan
Some fertility clinics work with lenders that specialize in IVF financing. This allows you to pay for your out-of-pocket IVF costs in installments over time. These loans can offer anywhere from $5,000 to $100,000, and interest rates can range from 0% to 35.99%. IVF lenders typically determine whether you qualify for financing, and at what rate, based on your financial qualifications and credit. With this type of loan, the money is usually paid directly to the clinic rather than you, the borrower.
In addition, there are personal loans designed to help people pay for treatment costs. These are offered by banks and other lenders, and you may see them called fertility loans, IVF loans, and family planning loans. (Learn more about personal loans below.)
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6. Applying for a Grant
A number of nonprofit organizations offer grants and scholarships to those who cannot afford to pay for IVF. These grants are usually income-based, meaning you must demonstrate a need to qualify. Organizations that offer IVF grants include the Cade Foundation, Journey to Parenthood, Gift of Parenthood, the Baby Quest Foundation, and the Starfish Fertility Foundation.
Resolve offers a list of fertility treatment scholarships and grants on their site. It’s also a good idea to ask your fertility clinic about any local or national grant or scholarship opportunities they know of.
7. Taking Out a Home Equity Line of Credit
If you own a home, you may be able to take out a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) and use the funds to pay for IVF. The amount you can borrow and the terms depend on the amount of equity you have in your home, as well as your credit history, debt-to-income ratio, and other factors.
The advantage of this type of IVF financing is that home equity loans and credit lines often have lower interest rates than credit cards and other types of loans. The downside is that you need to have equity in order to qualify, and you must use your home as collateral for the loan (which means that if you have trouble making payments, you could potentially lose your home).
You generally don’t want to tap your retirement nest egg before retirement, but if no other funding sources are available, borrowing from your retirement account, such as an 401(k), could be an option.
You may be able to borrow up to $50,000 or half of the amount vested in your 401(k) — whichever is smaller. If you take this path, you are basically lending the money to yourself at market interest rates for up to five years. Keep in mind, though, that 401(k) plan providers will typically charge fees to process and service a loan, which adds to the cost of borrowing and repayment. Also, not all employers offer these loans.
In addition, you might qualify to withdraw money from your individual retirement account (IRA) or 401(k) to pay for IVF treatment if your plan allows what’s called a hardship withdrawal. This allows you to avoid the 10% early withdrawal penalty, but you’ll still have to pay income tax on any withdrawals you make.
9. Taking Out a Personal Loan
Compared to using high-interest credit cards or tapping your IRA, a personal loan might be a better option for many people. A personal loan can be used for almost any expense, including IVF, and typically comes with a fixed interest rate that is lower than most credit cards.
Unlike a home equity loan or credit line, personal loans are typically unsecured, which means you don’t need to put your home or any other asset at risk. Also, you do not need to have any equity in your home to qualify. Instead, a lender will look at your overall financial qualifications to determine whether or not to approve you for a loan and, if so, at what rate and terms.
IVF might be one of the most meaningful investments you’ll ever make, but it can be a major expense. You can look to your insurance, health savings accounts, cash savings, or a loved one for help with IVF funding. If that’s not enough, an unsecured personal loan may be a smart way to finance treatment and help make your dreams a reality.
Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. See your rate in minutes.
SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Personal Loan overall.
FAQ
What is an IVF loan?
An IVF loan is typically a kind of personal loan designed to pay for fertility treatment costs. It’s an installment loan: You receive a lump sum of cash and then repay it, with interest, over time.
Can I get a personal loan for fertility treatments?
Personal loans can be used for almost any purpose, and fertility treatments are one option. You may see personal loans specially designed for this purpose. To qualify, you will need to go through the application process, have your credit reviewed, and see what terms you are offered.
Are there medical loans that cover IVF?
Yes, you can likely find loans that cover IVF in two ways. Some fertility clinics partner with lenders to offer funding, or you can apply for a personal loan to finance the expense of IVF treatments.
What is the best way to finance IVF?
Deciding how to finance IVF is a very personal decision, based on a variety of factors. Homeowners with equity might choose a HELOC; others might apply for a personal loan; and still others might seek a grant or a loan from a family member.
Does insurance cover IVF?
Some health insurance policies cover IVF. Check your policy for details; the amount of coverage and its details can vary greatly.
Can I use an HSA or FSA for IVF expenses?
Yes, you may be able to use HSA or FSA funds for IVF expenses, but it’s important to check the eligibility guidelines to see which aspects of your treatment are covered.
What are alternatives to IVF loans if I have bad credit?
If you have bad credit and are seeking IVF financing, you may find lenders, albeit with higher interest rates and less favorable terms. Other options include payment plans with your healthcare provider, a loan from a family member or close friend, and/or applying for grants.
About the author
Julia Califano
Julia Califano is an award-winning journalist who covers banking, small business, personal loans, student loans, and other money issues for SoFi. She has over 20 years of experience writing about personal finance and lifestyle topics. Read full bio.
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If you’re thinking about becoming a doctor and wondering, how much is medical school?, it’s a good idea to understand the total expense upfront. The average cost of medical school is $238,420 in total, according to the Education Data Initiative. The yearly cost is $59,605, and there’s an average increase of about $1,224 each year.
Seventy percent of medical students rely on student loans to help pay for the cost of medical school, and the average medical student graduates with just over $264,519 in total student loan debt (this includes debt from their undergraduate degree).
The average physician salary ranges from an average of $277,000 for primary care doctors to an average of $394,000 for specialists, with some specialties making close to $600,000 per year. While these numbers are well above the national average wage of $62,088 per year, paying for medical school and paying off medical school student loans is still no easy feat.
Key Points
• The average total cost of medical school exceeds $238,420.
• Student loans, scholarships, and grants, help students cover medical school expenses, with 70% of medical students borrowing loans.
• Students who choose to pursue their degree by participating in a military physician program may get full funding for medical school with a service commitment.
• Medical students can explore federal repayment plans and loan forgiveness options to help with their student loan debt.
• Student loan consolidation and student loan refinancing are other methods medical students can consider to help manage their monthly student loan payments.
How to Pay for Medical School
With the average cost of medical school being well above six figures, affording their education is one of the biggest hurdles future medical students face. However, by being proactive about finding ways to pay for medical school, med students may be able to reduce their overall student debt.
Scholarships
Scholarships aren’t always easy to get at the graduate level, but it’s not impossible. Some schools offer merit-based scholarships to incoming medical students who show exceptional academic capabilities and have a unique life experience. Students can also look into more individualized scholarships geared toward their location, specific area of study, or previous work experience.
Scholarships are offered by colleges and universities, businesses, local organizations, churches, and more. While it may take some time to search for scholarships you qualify for, the end result could save you thousands in medical school tuition expenses.
Military Service
Some medical professionals choose to obtain their medical degree by participating in a military physician program. The qualifications and commitment for each program vary, and the separate branches of the military, including the Army National Guard and Navy Reserve, have different programs.
The two options for medical students in the military are the Health Professions Scholarship Program and Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. Both programs pay for the cost of medical school but require a service commitment once the student graduates.
Federal Financial Aid
The first step in getting federal student loans is to complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA®). Students can check with the medical school they plan to attend to get filing date requirements and information on institutional financial aid (aid given by the school).
There are three types of federal student aid:
• Grants: Grants, such as the Pell Grant, do not have to be paid back unless the student withdraws from school and owes a refund. Grants are needs-based and the maximum amount for the 2025-2026 academic school year is $7,395.
• Work-Study: Federal work-study jobs are needs-based and help students earn money to pay for school through part-time employment. A bonus for medical students is that the work often is tied to community service or may be related to the student’s course of study, so this type of job may be more interesting and manageable than some others.
• Federal Loans: A student who borrowed money as an undergraduate and demonstrated financial need may have been awarded a Federal Direct Subsidized Loan to help cover school costs. Those types of federal loans are not available to students in graduate and professional school programs.
However, medical students are eligible for other federal loans. They may receive a Direct Unsubsidized Loan, which is not based on financial need, or a Direct PLUS Loan, which will require a credit check.
Private Student Loans
Private student loans are usually used once federal student loans have been exhausted. Based on federal loan limits and the cost of medical schools, medical students may need additional funding to cover the gap. Certain private student loan lenders, including SoFi, allow borrowing up to 100% of the cost of attendance.
To get a private loan with a competitive interest rate, a borrower generally needs to have a strong credit profile and a low debt-to-income ratio. If a borrower doesn’t meet these qualifications, they may want to consider using a cosigner to get a better rate.
Have a Budget Plan in Place
Finding the right resources to pay for medical school is important, but learning to live within a budget can also help to reduce debt. Medical students who started with a spending plan as undergraduates can probably modify what they’ve already been doing. But, it’s never too late to start budgeting.
Once a student determines how much will be coming in from various sources (work, family, loans, scholarships, etc.), the next step is to list what will be going out for tuition and fees, housing, food, transportation, and other costs.
Next, it’s a good idea to see where you can cut back on spending. Is there inexpensive public transportation available? Will you have roommates to split rent and utility bills? Other ideas to reduce expenses include meal planning and cooking at home, canceling subscription services, and buying in bulk.
By living on a budget while in medical school, you may be able to take out less in loans, pay off your loans quicker, and set yourself up for financial success down the line.
How to Pay Off Medical School Debt
It’s no secret that physicians have the potential to earn a higher-than-average salary once they finish their residency and start practicing. Here are the average annual salaries of a variety of medical specialties:
• Orthopedics: $558,000
• Plastic Surgery: $536,000
• Cardiology: $525,000
• Radiology: $498,000
• Anesthesiology: $472,000
• General Surgery: $423,000
• Emergency Medicine: $379,000
• Ob/Gyn: $352,000
• Family Medicine: $272,000
• Pediatrics: $260,000
However, these amounts are not earned until both medical school and residency are completed. Luckily, there are medical school loan repayment strategies that can be used in the meantime.
It’s important to be aware that the total cost of medical school over time can be impacted by the loan repayment option a borrower chooses. Repayment plans with a longer loan term can result in the borrower paying more overall.
In addition, how interest accrues on certain repayment methods can also be a factor. For example, on federal income-driven repayment plans, unpaid interest may accrue. This can happen if your monthly payments are less than the interest that accrues between payments. In that case, because your payments don’t cover all of the interest, the unpaid interest will add up.
Loan Forgiveness and Repayment Through Service
There are several student loan forgiveness programs for physicians with student debt. Some are government-sponsored (federal and state), and some are private programs.
Benefits vary, but generally, participants provide service for two to four years (depending on the number of years they receive support) in exchange for repayment of student loans and possibly a stipend for living expenses.
One of the most common programs is the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which was designed to encourage students to enter full-time public service jobs.
While PSLF isn’t specifically aimed at medical students, it could help those who choose to work for a government or not-for-profit organization.
Eligible borrowers may receive forgiveness of the remaining balance of their federal direct loans after making 120 qualifying payments while employed by certain public service employers.
Another program is the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Students to Service Loan Repayment Program, which provides loan repayment assistance in return for at least three years of service at an NHSC-approved site in a designated Health Professional Shortage Area. Students who are in their last year of medical or dental school may be eligible.
Federal Repayment Programs
There are several student loan repayment plans for federal student loan borrowers. Some are based on graduated payments that start low and increase over time, and they are designed to ensure the loans will be repaid after a designated period.
Others, such as income-based repayment, are based on a percentage of discretionary income and family size, and the repayment term is generally 20 to 25 years on these plans.
Federal Loan Consolidation
A Direct Consolidation Loan allows borrowers to combine multiple federal student loans into one loan with a single monthly payment.
Consolidation also can give borrowers access to additional federal loan repayment plans and forgiveness programs. But the interest rate on the new loan will be a weighted average of prior loan rates (rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of a percentage), not necessarily a new lower rate.
If the monthly payment is lower, that may be because the loan term is longer, which means the borrower is paying more interest over time. Also, federal loan consolidation is only for federal loans and does not include private student loans.
Private Student Loan Refinancing
Another option borrowers may want to consider is to refinance student loans. With student loan refinancing, one or more student loans are combined into one new private loan from a private lender with one new payment — ideally, with a lower interest rate.
Advantages of a student loan refinance include possible lower monthly payments and more favorable loan terms. However, borrowers should be aware that they will lose access to federal benefits if they refinance federal loans, including income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness.
You may also opt to extend the term of the loan when you refinance. An extended loan term means you may pay more interest over the life of the loan. You can use a student loan refinancing calculator to plug in the numbers and see how much your payments might be.
Refinancing generally works best for borrowers with a good job and solid credit profile when they may be able to qualify for lower student loan refinancing rates.
Medical school is expensive, with the average cost being well over $200,000. Many students rely on student loans, grants, and scholarships, to pay for their medical education.
When it comes time to pay off your loans, there are many options new graduates can consider. These include federal repayment plans, student loan forgiveness, federal loan consolidation, and student loan refinancing.
If you do choose to refinance your student loans, consider SoFi. It takes just minutes to check your rate and your credit will not be impacted when you prequalify.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
FAQ
How much does medical school cost on average?
The average total cost of medical school is $238,420, according to the Education Data Initiative. The average yearly cost of medical school is $59,605.
Is medical school more expensive than other graduate programs?
Medical school, which has a total average cost of $238,420, is more expensive than many other graduate programs, including law school, which has a total average cost of $230,163. It’s also more than the total average cost of an MBA from Harvard, which is approximately $161,304.
What are the main factors that affect the cost of medical school?
Factors that affect the cost of medical school include the length of time a student must attend. Medical school is typically four years — and that’s after the four years students spend earning their bachelor’s degree. In addition, there are supplies and equipment med students need, such as stethoscopes and lab coats, numerous text books, and study materials. As students advance in their medical education, they will often do rotations, which may involve travel and accommodation costs. There are also licensing exams students must take, which are generally hundreds of dollars each.
Can scholarships cover the full cost of medical school?
There are some scholarships that cover the full cost of medical school, but the eligibility requirements to qualify can be rigorous. However, smaller scholarships can add up to help cover a chunk of medical school costs, so students should consider searching for and applying to the applicable scholarships they can find. One resource: The Association of American Medical Colleges, which has a scholarship database organized by state.
How do most students pay for medical school?
Most students pay for medical school by taking out student loans. Seventy percent of medical students rely on student loans to help pay for the cost of medical school, according to the Education Data Initiative.
What is the total cost of medical school including living expenses?
According to research by the Association of American Medical Colleges, the median cost of medical school, including living expenses, for first-year med students at an in-state public school was $73,126 for the 2023-24 academic year. The cost was $103,365 for those attending private medical school.
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If you’re asking, “Do I have to pay back FAFSA?” or “Do I have to repay financial aid?,” what you’re really trying to find out is whether the federal student loans you become eligible for after completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) must be repaid.
Yes, you will have to pay back those loans, but other types of student aid you get through FAFSA likely won’t need to be repaid. Aside from federal student loans, you can also use FAFSA to apply for grants and scholarships, as well as work-study jobs, for which you’d get funds you usually don’t need to pay back.
If you have loans through FAFSA and need to pay them back, read on for information on the three general types of federal student loans and your repayment options for each.
• While federal student loans obtained through the FAFSA must be repaid, other forms of aid such as grants, scholarships, and work-study funds typically do not require repayment unless specific conditions apply.
• There are three main types of federal student loans: Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans.
• Most federal student loans have a six-month grace period after graduation, leaving school, or dropping below half-time enrollment before repayment begins.
• Borrowers have access to various repayment plans, including income-driven repayment options, deferment, and forbearance, to manage their loan payments based on their financial situation.
• In addition to funding received through completing the FAFSA, students can use cash savings and private student loans to pay for college.
Direct Subsidized Loans
With Direct Subsidized Loans, the government (more specifically, the U.S. Department of Education) pays the interest while you’re still in school at least half-time. That’s what makes them “subsidized.”
The maximum amount you can borrow depends on whether you are a dependent or an independent student, as well as what year of school you are in. However, it is ultimately up to your school how much you are eligible to receive each academic year.
Not everybody qualifies for a subsidized loan. You have to be an undergraduate (not a graduate student) demonstrating financial need and attending a school that participates in the Direct Loan Program. Additionally, the academic program in which you’re enrolled must lead to a degree or certificate.
You also should check how your school defines the term “half-time” because the meaning can vary from school to school. Contact your student aid office to make sure your definition and your school’s match. The status is usually based on the number of hours and/or credits in which you are enrolled.
Direct Unsubsidized Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Loans are a type of federal student loan available to both undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of financial need. Unlike Direct Subsidized Loans, these loans begin accruing interest as soon as the funds are disbursed. Borrowers are not required to demonstrate financial hardship to qualify, and the amount awarded is determined by the school based on the student’s cost of attendance and other financial aid received.
Since interest accrues during all periods — including while the student is enrolled in school, during the grace period, and during deferment — borrowers can either pay the interest as it accrues or allow it to capitalize, which increases the total loan balance.
• Grad PLUS Loans: These are for graduate or professional degree students.
• Parent PLUS Loans:Parent PLUS Loans can be taken out by parents as long as their qualifying child is a dependent or undergraduate student.
Unlike most other federal loans, PLUS Loans require a credit check, and you cannot have an adverse credit history. If you or your parents have bad credit, a cosigner on the loan application may be an option.
With Direct PLUS Loans, you can borrow as much as you need for the cost of attendance, subtracting the other financial aid you’re getting. However, the interest rate for PLUS Loans is generally higher than it is for the other types of federal student loans.
Do I Get a Grace Period on My Federal Student Loan Repayment?
Whether you get a grace period — time after you graduate (or drop below half-time enrollment) during which you do not have to make loan payments — depends on what type of federal student loan you have. Not all federal student loans offer a grace period. Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans offer a grace period of six months, whereas Direct PLUS Loans don’t offer a grace period at all.
Grace periods are meant to give you time to find a job and organize your finances before you have to start making loan payments. They are usually one-time deals; in most cases, you often can’t get a second grace period once the initial one ends.
Keep in mind that grace periods are usually not interest-free. Some loans accrue interest during grace periods. Many students subscribe to the strategy of making interest payments even during the grace period. Doing this to put money toward student loans can ultimately lower the amount you owe, and interest payments are generally more affordable to handle than principal payments.
Federal Student Loan Standard Repayment Plan
Once you graduate, your repayment plan will depend on various factors, but most of the time the government will place you on its Standard Repayment Plan. The general rule here is that you’re expected to pay off your loan over the course of a decade, and your payments will remain the same for the duration.
Before you are placed on that Standard Repayment Plan, the government gives you a chance to choose a few other repayment options (which we’ll discuss below). If you don’t choose one of those, you’ll automatically be placed on the Standard Repayment Plan.
Additional Repayment Options
Here are a couple of your other repayment options beyond the Standard Repayment Plan:
• The Extended Repayment Plan: The Extended Repayment Plan can extend your term from the standard 10 years to up to 25 years. To qualify, you must have at least $30,000 in outstanding Direct Loans. As a result, your monthly payments are reduced, but you could be paying way more interest.
• The Graduated Repayment Plan: Another option, the Graduated Repayment Plan, lets you pay off your loan within 10 years, but instead of a fixed payment, your payments start low and increase over time. This may be a good option if your income is currently low but you expect it to steadily increase.
You can also choose to refinance or consolidate your student loans. Refinancing is done through a private lender, and consolidation is done through the government.
Difference Between Refinancing & Consolidating Student Loans
While you can’t refinance student loans with the government, you can do so with a private loan company. Before you consider refinancing, be sure to know the difference between refinancing and consolidating student loans:
• Refinancing means taking out a brand new loan so that you can pay off your existing loans. To refinance, you’ll choose a private lender with (hopefully) better interest rates and repayment terms. Refinancing student loans can be used for both federal and private loans. Keep in mind that when you refinance federal loans with a private lender, you lose access to federal benefits and protections like loan forgiveness programs and repayment plans.
• Consolidation means combining all of your federal loans into one loan with one monthly payment. When you consolidate multiple federal student loans, you’re given a new, fixed interest rate that’s the weighted average of the rates from the loans being consolidated, rounded up to the nearest one-eighth of a percent.
Before you apply for that refinancing plan, it’s a good idea to check your credit score, as it is an important factor that lenders consider. Many lenders require a score of 650 or higher. If yours falls below that, you may consider a cosigner on the loan.
Lenders typically offer fixed and variable interest rates, as well as a variety of repayment terms (which is often based on your credit score and many other personal financial factors). The loan you choose should ultimately help you save money over the life of the loan or make your monthly payments more manageable.
The Takeaway
FAFSA can include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans. Grants and scholarships do not need to be repaid, and work-study is money that you earn from a job.
If you received federal student loans, you will need to pay those back. Exploring available repayment options, including income-driven plans, deferment, and forbearance, can provide flexibility based on your financial situation.
Other ways to pay for college include cash savings and private student loans. Private student loans, though, should be a last resort after you’ve explored all federal aid options.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.
Check your rate for student loan refinancing in just two minutes with SoFi.
FAQ
Do I have to repay all financial aid received through the FAFSA?
No, not all financial aid obtained via the FAFSA requires repayment. While federal student loans must be repaid, other forms of aid like grants, scholarships, and work-study funds typically do not need to be paid back.
When does repayment begin for federal student loans?
Repayment for most federal student loans starts six months after you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment. This period is known as the grace period.
Are there repayment options if I’m struggling to make payments?
Yes, federal student loans offer various repayment plans, including income-driven repayment plans, deferment, and forbearance options, to assist borrowers facing financial hardships.
SoFi Private Student Loans Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.
Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
SoFi Student Loan Refinance Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).
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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
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.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®
It may feel like there’s nothing easy about money. The older you get, the more obligations you may have. Between checking, savings, 401(k)s, bills, loans, mortgages, and more — it can be a lot to keep track of and manage.
If thinking about your finances causes you to feel stressed and/or you find yourself putting off important financial decisions, it may be time to simplify. While streamlining your personal finances can take a little bit of time and effort in the short term, it can end up saving you time, effort, as well as money, over the long haul.
Here are seven simple moves that can help you manage your money more efficiently — and more effectively.
Key Points
• Automate bill payments to save time and avoid late fees.
• Opt for paperless statements to reduce clutter and easily access documents.
• Consolidate multiple accounts to minimize fees and simplify management.
• Focus on one or two financial goals at a time for better progress.
• Use the debt snowball or avalanche method to pay off debts efficiently.
1. Automating Your Bills
One of the easiest ways to simplify your finances is to set up auto payment whenever possible. Putting all of your bills — including credit cards, utilities, insurance, loans, mortgage, and even rent — on autopilot can save you significant time and hassle each month. Plus, you won’t have to worry about late payments — or late fees.
You can often set up automatic payments for your bills by going to the website of the service provider and inputting your bank account information.
If a business doesn’t offer an automatic payment program, you may be able to set up a recurring payment through your bank by logging in to your online bank account or using your bank’s mobile app.
2. Going Paperless
A major culprit of personal finance-related headaches is paperwork. Keeping track of the many documents — all those receipts, investment reports, bank statements, tax returns — can be a struggle.
Many services allow you to opt-in to a paperless experience instead. You’ll typically have access to all of the documents when you log into your account. And, with everything just a click away, you won’t have to worry about finding misplaced paper documents.
If you’re interested in next-level financial organization, you could even set up a digitized archive of your important information and files on your computer or an external hard drive, so you never have to spend hours searching through file cabinets and miscellaneous envelopes.
You can also reduce physical — and mental — clutter by taking advantage of the many retailers and service providers that offer email, rather than paper, receipts. Or, you may want to consider getting an app that scans, organizes, and stores receipts.
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3. Consolidating Accounts
Whether you’re married with three kids or single with two Labradoodles, there’s a good chance that you have more financial accounts than you need. Consolidating multiple bank accounts into just a few can help simplify your financial life. In some cases, it can also help you save you money.
If you’ve done a lot of job hopping in your career, for example, you could have multiple 401(k)s floating around. When you leave a company but don’t roll over your 401(k), you’re often subject to fees that your employer may have been covering while you were employed.
By rolling your 401(k) into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), you may be able to minimize fees. Another plus is that you may be able to merge your IRAs and have all of your funds in one spot. And, you may be able to select from a wider selection of funds and investments than the ones selected by your previous employer.
If you have more than one checking or savings account, you may want to see if you can pare it down to one of each. They don’t necessarily have to be under the same roof. You can typically link your accounts even if they are at two different banks, such as a checking account at a traditional bank and a high-yield savings account at an online bank.
You may also want to look at bundling your insurance policies. Many companies offer substantial discounts if they write both your auto and homeowner’s policies.
4. Using One Credit Card
If you signed up for a variety of credit cards, chasing the promised rewards they offered, you may have racked up more than a few credit accounts.
To make it easier to keep track of your spending, you may want to pick the card that offers you the most in return, whether that’s cash back, travel rewards, or other perks, and focus on using only that credit card.
By putting everything on one card, you’ll only have one credit card bill to pay each month, a single statement to monitor for errors and fraud, and one rewards program to track. Plus, you won’t have to think about which card to pull out whenever you’re making a purchase.
Rather than canceling your other cards (which could negatively impact your credit), you may want to just store them away in a secure place.
5. Knocking Down Debt
One of the most effective ways to reduce financial stress is to get rid of high-interest debts.
Paying off even one sizable credit card or loan can not only ease worry, but can also reduce the number of financial obligations you have to deal with each month. It can also free up money that you can then put towards something else, whether that’s getting rid of other debts or something fun like a vacation.
Two common strategies for paying off debt are the debt snowball and debt avalanche method.
With the debt snowball method, you list your debts in order of size, then put any extra money you have towards the debt with the smallest balance, while paying the minimum on the others. When that debt is paid off, you tackle the next-smallest debt, and so on. Paying off debts in full can help you feel accomplished, simplify your life, and inspire you to continue crushing your debt.
With the debt avalanche method of paying off debt, you list your debts in order of interest rate, then focus on putting extra money towards the debt with the highest interest rate first, while paying the minimum on the rest. When that debt is paid off, you put extra money towards the debt with the next-highest interest rate. While it may take you longer to see progress on your loans, you’ll likely pay less money in interest over time using this method.
6. Putting Saving on Autopilot
The set-it-and-forget-it approach can be highly effective when it comes to saving money. For one reason, you don’t have to remember to transfer money from your checking to your savings each month. For another, the money will get whisked out of your checking account before you ever have a chance to spend it.
You can automate savings in just a few minutes by setting up a recurring transfer from your checking to your savings account for a set amount of money on the same day each month (perhaps the day after your paycheck clears).
Even if you can only afford to transfer a small amount each month, it can be worth automating this task. Since the savings will happen every month no matter what, your savings will gradually build over time.
It can be great to have financial goals. Many of us have plans to buy a home, put kids through college, and pay for our retirement. But if you set too many goals at one time, you can end up losing focus, and not making any progress on any of them.
A better approach can be to set just one or two goals to fully focus on at one time. Ideally, one should be saving for retirement, since the earlier you start saving for retirement, generally the easier it is to reach your goal.
The other goal might be paying off your credit card debt or student loans, saving for a down payment on a home, or putting money aside to help pay for your kids’ college education.
By focusing your energy on just one or two specific goals, you may be able to make real headway. Once you start seeing progress — or actually achieve the goal — you’ll likely be inspired to set, and accomplish, other goals.
The Takeaway
Simplifying your financial life may take a bit of legwork up front but, in the long run, it can help alleviate stress and also help you better plan for your financial future.
Strategies that can help you simplify your finances include paring down the number of accounts you have, crossing off debts, automating monthly tasks like paying bills and transferring money to savings, and focusing your efforts on just one or two financial goals at a time.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
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FAQ
How do I simplify my finances?
You can simplify your finances by consolidating accounts, automating payments, and using budgeting apps. Other ways to simplify your financial life include: setting up a budget with clear spending categories and limits, paying off high-interest debts to reduce monthly obligations, and getting rid of subscriptions and memberships you don’t use regularly.
What is the 50/30/20 rule in your financial plan?
The 50/30/20 rule is a budgeting guideline that splits your income into three parts: 50% for essential expenses (like rent and groceries), 30% for discretionary spending (like entertainment, dining out, and hobbies), and 20% for savings and debt repayment. This rule helps ensure a balanced way to manage money, ensuring both responsible financial habits and room for enjoyment and future planning.
What is the 7% rule in finance?
The 7% rule in finance suggests that a safe and sustainable withdrawal rate from a retirement portfolio is 7% per year. This means you can withdraw 7% of your total retirement savings annually without significantly depleting your funds. However, this rule is a general guideline and may vary based on market conditions, portfolio size, and individual financial circumstances. Always consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.
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Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.
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