couple doing taxes

How to Pay Less Taxes: 9 Simple Steps

Taxes are part of life, but many people would like to know if there are any ways to lower their tax bill.

While paying no taxes isn’t likely, there are ways you can use the tax code to reduce your taxable income and tax liability. These range from knowing the right filing status to maxing out your retirement contributions to understanding which deductions and credits you may qualify for.

Read on to learn some smart strategies for lowering your tax bill without running afoul of the IRS.

Key Points

•   Selecting the most appropriate filing status for your situation can lower tax bills.

•   Maximizing contributions to retirement accounts can reduce taxable income.

•   Withdrawals from a 529 savings plan are tax-free when used for qualifying educational expenses.

•   Contributions to a Health Savings Account are tax-deductible, and distributions used for qualifying medical expenses are tax-free.

•   With investments, tax-loss harvesting may help reduce the taxes owed on capital gains.

1. Choosing the Right Filing Status

If you’re married, you have a choice to file jointly or separately. In many cases, a married couple will come out ahead by filing taxes jointly.

Typically, this will give them a lower tax rate, and also may help make them eligible for certain tax breaks, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC), and the Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC) for education expenses. But there are certain circumstances where couples may be better off filing separately.

Some examples include: when both spouses are high-income earners and earn the same, when one spouse has high medical bills, and if your income determines your student loan payments.

Seeking advice from a tax professional or preparing returns both ways can help you assess the pros and cons of filing jointly or separately.

2. Maxing Out Your Retirement Account

Generally, the lower your income, the lower your taxes. However, you don’t have to actually earn less money to lower your tax bill.

Instead, you can reduce your gross income (which is your income before taxes are taken out) by making contributions to a 401(k) retirement plan, a 403(b) retirement plan, a 457 plan, or an IRA.

The more you contribute to a pre-tax retirement account, the more you can reduce your adjusted gross income (AGI), which is the baseline for calculating your taxable income. A lower taxable income may also put you into different tax brackets. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that there are annual limitations to how much you can put aside into retirement, which depend on your income and your age.

Even if you don’t have access to a retirement plan at work, you may still be able to open and contribute to an IRA. And, you can do this even after the end of the year.

While the tax year ends on December 31st, you may still be able to contribute to your IRA or open up a Roth IRA or traditional IRA (if you meet the eligibility requirements) up until the tax deadline in mid-April.

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3. Adding Up Your Health Care Costs

Health care expenses are typically only deductible once they exceed 7.5% of your AGI (and only for those who itemize their deductions). But with today’s high cost of medical care and, in some cases, insurance companies passing more costs onto consumers, you might be surprised how much you’re actually spending on health care.

In addition to the obvious expenses, like copays and coinsurance, it’s key to also consider things like dental care, prescription medications, prescription eyeglasses, and even the mileage to and from all medical appointments.

4. Saving for Private School and College

If you have children who may attend college in the future, or who attend or will attend private school, it can pay off to open a 529 savings plan.

Even if your children are young, it’s never too early to start setting aside money for their education. In fact, because of the power compounding returns with long-term investing, starting early could help make college a lot more affordable.

A 529 savings plan is a type of investment account designed to help parents save for educational expenses (such as for private schools or colleges) in a tax-advantaged way. While you won’t typically get a federal tax deduction for the money you put into a 529, many states offer a state tax deduction for these contributions.

The big tax advantage is that no matter how much your investments grow between now and when you need the money, you won’t pay taxes on those gains, and any withdrawals you take out to pay for qualified education expenses will be tax-free.

Recommended: Compound vs. Simple Interest

5. Putting Estimated Tax Payments on Your Calendar

While this move won’t technically lower your taxes, it could help you avoid a higher-than-necessary tax bill at the end of the year.

That’s because income tax in the United States works on a pay-as-you-go system. If you are a salaried employee, the federal government typically collects income taxes throughout the year via payroll taxes.

If you’re self-employed or a freelancer, however, it’s up to you to pay as you go. You can do this by paying the IRS taxes in quarterly installments throughout the year.

If you don’t pay enough, or if you miss a quarterly payment due date, you may have to pay a penalty to the IRS. The penalty amount depends on how late you paid and how much you underpaid.

The deadlines for quarterly estimated tax payments are typically in mid-April, mid-June, mid-September, and mid-January.

For help calculating your estimated payments, individuals can use the Estimated Tax Worksheet from the IRS .

6. Saving Your Donation Receipts

You may be able to claim a deduction for donating to charities that are recognized by the IRS. So it’s a good idea to always get a receipt whenever you give, whether it’s cash, clothing and household items, or your old car.

If your total charitable contributions and other itemized deductions, including unreimbursed medical expenses, mortgage interest, and state and local taxes, are greater than your available standard deduction, you may wind up with a lower tax bill.

Note: For any contribution of $250 or more, you must obtain and keep a record.

7. Adding to Your HSA

If you have a high deductible health plan, you may be eligible for or already have a health savings account (HSA), where you can set aside funds for medical expenses.

HSA contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, so any money you put into an HSA is income the IRS will not be able to tax. And, you can typically add money until mid-April to deduct those contributions on the prior year’s taxes.

Distributions from your HSA are tax-free as long as they’re used for yourself, your spouse, and your dependents for qualifying medical expenses. If you don’t end up needing the money to pay for health care, you can simply leave it in your HSA until you reach age 65, at which point you can withdraw money from an HSA for any reason.

HSAs typically allow you to invest your funds, and in that case, the interest, dividends, and capital gains from an HSA are also nontaxable for qualified distributions.

Recommended: How to Switch Banks

8. Making Student Loan Payments

You may be able to lower your tax bill by deducting up to $2,500 of student loan interest paid per year, even if you don’t itemize your deductions.

There are certain income requirements that must be met, however. The deduction is phased out when an individual’s income reaches certain thresholds.

Even so, it’s worth plugging in the numbers to see if you qualify.

9. Selling Off Poorly Performing Investments

If you have investments in your portfolio that have been down for quite some time and aren’t likely to recover, selling them at a loss might benefit you tax-wise.

The reason: You can use these losses to offset capital gains, which are profits earned from selling an investment for more than you purchased it for. If you profited from an investment that you held for one year or less, those gains can be highly taxed by the IRS.

This strategy, known as tax-loss harvesting, needs to be done within the tax year that you owe, and may be used to reduce capital gains on both short-term and long-term investments (short-term gains are taxed at a higher rate than long-term gains). Tax-loss harvesting can help a taxpayer who has made money from investments avoid a large, unexpected tax bill.

The Takeaway

The key to saving on taxes is to get to know the tax code and make sure you’re taking advantage of all the deductions and credits you’re entitled to.

It can also be helpful to look at tax planning as a year-round activity. If you gradually make tax-friendly financial decisions like saving for retirement, college, and health care throughout the year, you could easily reduce your tax burden and potentially score a refund at the end of the year. If you do score a tax refund, you can put it to good use, paying down debt or earning interest in a bank account.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible 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 can I lower my tax payments?

Filing jointly, when applicable, can often get you a lower tax rate and a higher standard deduction. Other common ways to reduce taxes include contributing the maximum amount to retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, making tax-deductible contributions to an HSA account, deducting charitable contributions, and deducting up to $2,500 in student loan interest payments.

With investments, tax-loss harvesting may also help reduce the amount of taxes owed on capital gains.

How can saving for retirement help me lower my taxes?

Contributing to traditional, pre-tax retirement accounts like 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457 plans, or IRAs can lower your taxable income for the year. These pre-tax contributions reduce the income you report to the IRS, which can result in a smaller tax bill now, while also allowing your retirement investments to grow tax-deferred until retirement.

Are there tax advantages to saving for health care expenses?

Yes, if you have a high-deductible health plan, you may be eligible for a Health Savings Account (HSA). HSAs offer a few different tax advantages: your contributions are tax-deductible, the money, if invested, may grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free. In addition, non-medical withdrawals made after turning 65 are also tax-free.



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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.

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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.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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A Guide to Personal Loans for Single Mothers

Personal Loan Need to Knows for Single Mothers

Whether you’ve been a single mom from the get-go or are in the process of becoming a solo parent, raising a child on your own can be expensive. Housing, other essentials, fun purchases (toys!), and extracurriculars add up. Add in childcare, major expenses like braces, and legal bills during a separation, and you may find yourself with your finances stretched thin.

One option to consider is a personal loan. Read on for a closer look at personal loans for single moms, including their pros and cons, how to qualify, plus other funding options you may want to explore.

Key Points

•   Single mothers can use personal loans for diverse needs, including debt consolidation and major purchases.

•   Personal loans provide flexible, quick funds with fixed repayment terms.

•   Overborrowing and credit score damage are significant risks associated with personal loans.

•   Qualifying for a loan without income is difficult but may be achieved with alternative income sources and/or a cosigner.

•   Home equity, government assistance, and educational grants can be viable alternatives to personal loans.

Why Might a Single Mom Need a Personal Loan?

First, consider what a personal loan is. This type of loan provides a lump sum of money up front you then pay back (plus interest) in monthly installments over time. You can use the funds from a personal loan for virtually any purpose, whether it’s making a large purchase, covering living expenses, or paying down other, higher-interest debt.

There are many reasons why a single mother — or any parent — might consider applying for a personal loan. These include:

1.    Debt consolidation

2.    Covering the cost of a move

3.    Paying tuition or extracurricular expenses for children

4.    Stopgap funds during times of unemployment

5.    Covering housing costs, such as rent or a mortgage

6.    Paying for a home remodeling project

7.    Buying a car

8.    Purchasing major appliances

Recommended: What Is a Personal Loan? How Do Personal Loans Work?

Are Personal Loans for Single Mothers Special?

In a word, no. The process of applying for a personal loan is the same for everyone. However, there may be particular approval hurdles to overcome as a single parent.

One is income. If you’re newly single, you may not have a steady income, which can make it more difficult to get approved for a personal loan. Another is your credit. If you’ve had to rely on credit cards to cover the cost of divorce or the transition to single parenting, your credit may not be what it used to be. The amount of debt you owe on your credit cards is one of the biggest factors affecting your credit score.

However, these obstacles aren’t insurmountable (more on that below).

Benefits and Risks of Personal Loans for a Single Mother

A personal loan can offer a single mom a valuable lifeline to meet immediate needs, such as unexpected expenses, education costs, or debt consolidation. However, taking on any type of debt generally comes with costs, as well as risks. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of getting a loan as a single mom.

Pros

Cons

Flexibility in usage of funds Interest and fees add to your costs
Quick access to funds Risk of overborrowing
Fixed repayment schedule Missed or late payments can negatively impact your credit
Interest rates are typically lower than credit cards Can add to your debt burden

Pros of Personal Loans for Single Mothers

•  Flexibility Personal loans provide flexibility in how you can use the borrowed funds. Whether it’s covering medical bills, home repairs, or summer camp tuition, the uses of personal loans are numerous and varied.

•  Quick access to funds Personal loans often come with a streamlined application process and relatively quick approval. You may be able to access the funds quickly, enabling you to address urgent financial needs promptly.

•  Fixed repayment schedule Personal loans usually come with fixed monthly payments over a specified term. This predictability can make it easier for you to budget and plan your finances effectively.

•  Potential for lower interest rates Depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness, personal loans can offer competitive interest rates compared to other types of borrowing, such as credit cards or payday loans. Single mothers with a good credit history may benefit from more favorable repayment terms.

Cons of Personal Loans for Single Mothers

•  Interest and fees On top of interest, some lenders charge fees for personal loans, which increase the overall cost of borrowing. It’s important to carefully evaluate the terms and conditions to make sure you can comfortably manage the repayments without straining your budget.

•  Risk of overborrowing As a single mom, you likely want to avoid overborrowing or taking on more debt than they can reasonably repay. Overcommitting to loan payments may lead to a cycle of financial stress and difficulty in meeting other essential expenses.

•  Impact on credit score Taking out a personal loan creates a new line of credit, and if not managed properly, it could negatively affect your credit profile. Late or missed payments can damage creditworthiness, potentially impacting future borrowing opportunities.

•  Debt burden A personal loan will add to your existing financial obligations as a single mother. Before opting for a loan, you’ll want to be certain to assess the long-term implications and consider whether the loan repayments align with your income and financial goals.

Is Getting a Personal Loan With No Income Possible?

If you’re a single mother with no job or you’ve been a stay-at-home-mother with little or no income of your own, it may be difficult, though not impossible, to qualify for a personal loan.

Lenders typically want to see proof of a regular income. However, that does not necessarily have to be job-related income. You may be able to count these other sources of income:

•  Unemployment

•  Alimony

•  Child support

•  Investment income

•  Rental income

•  Pension or annuity income

•  Freelance work

•  Gig work

If you don’t have much income to speak of, then you might consider a cosigner or co-applicant for your loan. This a person who agrees to make the loan payments if the main borrower cannot or does not. For some borrowers, family members have the financial flexibility to cosign on a loan, but it can be a good idea to have a conversation about expectations and potential hypotheticals if you were no longer able to pay back the loan.

Another option is to secure a personal loan with collateral. This is an asset of value, such as a vehicle or money in a savings account, you use to back the loan in case you default. Should you become unable to repay the loan, the lender can seize your collateral to recover their losses. This lowers risk for the lender, making steady income (or less-than-stellar credit) less critical.

Also keep in mind that if you have no income but excellent credit, you may still find a lender who is willing to offer you an unsecured personal loan.

You’ll also want to be wary, however, of lenders who advertise “no-income loans,” as these loans may come with sky-high interest rates, short repayment terms, and low loan amounts.

Alternatives to Personal Loans for Single Mothers

There are other alternatives to personal loans, depending on your financial circumstances and your needs. Here are some you might consider.

Home Loans for Single Mothers

If you own your home, using your home as a financial asset may be one way to borrow funds at a reasonable cost. If you have built up equity in your home, you may be able to tap that equity by getting a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Just keep in mind that the loan is backed by your home. Should you have difficulty repaying the loan or credit line, you could potentially lose your home.

Government Resources for Single Parents

If your income is low, you may be eligible for one or more government assistance programs. Some options you may want to explore include:

•  Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

•  National School Lunch Program

•  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

•  Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

•  The Emergency Food Assistance Program

You can find more resources at benefits.gov.

Educational Aid for Single Mothers

If you’re considering going back to school, below are some programs that can help make it more affordable (or even free):

•  Pell Grants

•  Teach Grants

•  Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP)

There also may be private scholarships and grants for single parents available from the institutions you’re interested in attending. Speaking with the financial aid office may help you see the breadth of options available to you.

Other Financial Help For Single Mothers

Becoming a single mother, either by choice or circumstance, can feel overwhelming. But there is support out there. It can help to talk to other single parents in your community — you may be surprised by all the resources that are available. Other opportunities may include:

•   Financial aid or tuition assistance If your children are in private school or extracurricular programs, there may be financial aid available to help lower the cost. Even if there’s not a formal program, it can’t hurt to explain your situation and ask what may be available.

•   Employer-based programs Your human resources department may have certain programs, such as childcare coverage, free legal consultations, and access to financial planning and debt counseling, for eligible workers. Talk to your HR representative or look through their materials to assess what’s available.

•   Family and friends People close to you may be willing to provide support, or there may be creative ways to trade services, such as babysitting, to get more financial help. If a friend or family member offers to loan you money, it can be helpful to put an agreement in writing, including any interest you will pay and the terms of repayment, so there is no confusion that could cause a rift in your relationship.

Recommended: A Guide to Unsecured Personal Loans

The Takeaway

As a single mother, there are avenues that can help you manage your finances and achieve your financial goals. One option is taking out a personal loan. This type of financing can provide financial relief and flexibility, but it is important to weigh the pros and cons, compare options from different lenders, and assess your ability to manage repayments responsibly.

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 a NerdWallet 2026 winner for Best Personal Loan for Large Loan Amounts.

FAQ

Can you get a loan for being a single mother?

There can be loans that are a good fit for single mothers, such as certain home loans that suit those with financial challenges or less strong credit scores. There may be other programs that have special products or accommodations for single mothers for other types of loans as well. It can be wise to research options.

Can stay-at-home moms get a personal loan?

Yes, a stay-at-home mom may be able to get a personal loan, but they may have to take additional steps to qualify. For instance, a co-applicant could be required or proof of other sources of income vs. a salary.

What is a hardship grant for single mothers?

Hardship grants offer quick sources of cash for families or individuals facing urgent financial need. A good place to start searching for this kind of financing can be local credit unions.


Photo credit: iStock/RyanJLane

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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.


*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Your Parent PLUS Loan Was Denied. Now What?

If your application for a federal Parent PLUS Loan was denied, you and your child still have options to help pay for their college. Below, we’ll explain some reasons why a Parent PLUS loan application might be denied, what you can do if yours is rejected, and alternatives to consider.

Key Points

•   Parent PLUS Loans may be denied if borrowers have an adverse credit history, overdue payments, or recent bankruptcy.

•   Parents can appeal a Parent PLUS loan denial with the Department of Education by proving extenuating circumstances caused the credit issues.

•   An endorser without adverse credit can help secure a denied Parent PLUS Loan — the endorser assumes responsibility for repaying the loan if the parent cannot.

•   Additional financial aid options to explore include more federal aid, scholarships, and private loans.

•   Considering less expensive school options such as local or community colleges can also help manage college costs.

What Is the Parent PLUS Loan Program?

Parent PLUS Loans are federally funded Direct PLUS Loans taken out by parents to help their child pay for college. To apply, students or their parents must first fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®. Then a parent applies for a Parent PLUS Loan on the Federal Student Aid site. Most schools require this to be done online, though some have a different application process. Unlike other types of federal student loans, Parent PLUS loans require a credit check.

Why a Parent PLUS Loan Might Be Denied

If your Parent PLUS Loan was rejected, it may be because you don’t meet the credit requirements. PLUS borrowers can’t have an adverse credit history, such as being at least 90 days overdue in making a debt payment or in bankruptcy in the last five years.

Your application may also be denied if you or your child don’t meet other PLUS loan requirements. For instance, your child must be enrolled at least half-time at an eligible school, and you must meet the general eligibility criteria for federal student aid.

What Parents Can Do

In the event that your application for a Parent PLUS Loan is rejected, you may want to consider these options.

Appeal the Decision

If you had extenuating circumstances that led to an adverse credit event, you can ask the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to reconsider your application. You’ll need to provide documentation that proves that extenuating circumstances led to the adverse credit. The ED will decide whether to approve the appeal. Check the Federal Student Aid website for a list of potentially acceptable appeals and the supporting documentation needed.

If your appeal is approved, you’ll be required to complete PLUS Credit Counseling before your loan is disbursed. Counseling takes between 20 and 30 minutes and can be done online.

Find an Endorser

You may want to consider having someone else endorse the Parent PLUS loan. An endorser is essentially a cosigner without an adverse credit history. In the event that you are unable to repay the loan, the endorser would be responsible.

An endorser must complete an addendum online. They should be prepared to provide personal information such as their mailing address and phone number and their employer’s information, plus two references.

Your Child May Qualify for More Aid

If your Parent PLUS loan is rejected, there’s a chance your child may qualify for more federal student aid. They can contact their school’s financial aid office to see what can be done given that their parental contribution is now reduced.

It’s important to talk to your child about student loans so they understand how the loans work and how much they will cost upon graduation. It may be helpful to speak in terms of the expected monthly payment, so your student can compare that to their expected annual salary.

Scholarships

It’s likely not too late for your child to apply for scholarships. In fact, students should be searching for scholarships each and every year they’re in school.

While some types of scholarships may be limited to incoming freshmen, this is not always the case. In addition to looking at scholarships offered by your child’s school and the state, other local organizations may offer scholarships.

If your student is still in high school, their guidance counselor may be able to provide advice on ways to search for scholarships, including finding opportunities in your area.

Consider Other School Options

Depending on where you live, you may want to reconsider where your child goes to school. Switching to a state school or local community college could save thousands in tuition, room and board, and travel costs. Some community colleges even have transfer programs for getting students into four-year schools. Consider meeting with a counselor at the community college to see what the transfer process is like.

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Company by U.S. News & World Report.


Private Student Loans After a Parent PLUS Loan

Private student loans are another way to close the funding gap. Commercial banks, credit unions, online lenders, and other lending institutions offer these loans with varying terms and rates.

Private student loans and private parent student loans are not backed by the federal government and therefore not subject to its qualification rules. They may also lack the borrower protections available to federal loans, such as deferment. Private student loans are often considered once all federal aid options have been explored.

Rates on private student loans are generally determined by your credit score and personal financial situation. Borrowers who did not qualify for a Parent PLUS loan may also have trouble qualifying for a private loan at a competitive rate. Still, it’s worth shopping around. In addition to comparing rates between lenders, you’ll want to factor in the costs associated with taking out a loan, such as origination fees, prepayment penalties, and more.

Also, keep in mind that you can always choose to refinance student loans in the future if and when you may be able to qualify for a lower interest rate or more favorable loan terms. When you refinance, you replace your current loans with a new loan from a private lender. If you do get a lower interest rate, you could save money over the life of the loan.

You can refinance both private and federal student loans. However, refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for such federal programs and protections as income-driven repayment and federal deferment. If you think you might need those benefits, think twice about refinancing federal loans.

The Takeaway

Parent PLUS Loans are federal loans available to parents of students. There are credit-related requirements in order to qualify for a PLUS loan, so in some cases, it is possible to be denied for a Parent PLUS Loan. If your application is rejected, you still have options, including appealing the decision, adding an endorser to the loan, exploring scholarships, or looking into alternate schools.

If you’ve exhausted all your options, private parent student loans are another alternative to consider. And if you can’t get a competitive rate, you can explore refinancing in the future.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

How often can I take out a Parent PLUS Loan?

You can apply each year you’d like to receive a Parent PLUS loan. To do so, you must fill out a Direct PLUS Loan Application.

When do Parent PLUS Loans need to be paid back?

Repayment begins 60 days after the final loan disbursement for that academic year. If you’re approved for deferments each year, you may not need to begin repaying the loan until six months after your child graduates.

If I’m approved for a Parent PLUS Loan, where will the funds go?

Funds from Parent PLUS Loans are sent directly to your child’s school. If there’s money left over, the school will send the remaining amount to you or, if you authorize it, to the student.


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).

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 Loan Products
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.


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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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 Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Guide to Parent Student Loans

Weighing your child’s college education against keeping your own debt manageable is a tough balancing act. Parent student loans could help you fill gaps when other student aid falls short.

There are a variety of student loans available to parents who are interested in helping their child pay for college. Parents can consider either federal or private student loans. Parent PLUS Loans are federal student loans available to parents. Private lenders will likely have their own loans and terms available for parent borrowers.

Figuring out how to fund your child’s education is a personal decision. Read on for an overview of the different loan types available to parents and some important considerations to make before borrowing money to pay for your child’s education.

Key Points

•   Parents can choose between federal Parent PLUS Loans and private student loans to finance education.

•   Federal Parent PLUS Loans have a fixed interest rate and cover the full cost of attendance.

•   Private loans may offer better rates for good credit but lack federal protections.

•   Assess the impact of parent student loans on retirement savings and credit scores before borrowing.

•   PLUS Loans offer deferment and consolidation options, while private loans vary by lender.

Types of Parent Student Loans

Parent borrowers can consider borrowing a federal student loan or private student loan. Here are a few of the different types of loans to consider.

Parent PLUS Loans

Parent PLUS Loans are federal student loans that are available to parents of dependent undergraduate students through the Department of Education. They offer fixed interest rates — 8.94% for the 2025-2026 academic year. On the plus side, eligible parents can borrow up to the attendance costs of their child’s school of choice, minus other financial aid.

The amount eligible parents can borrow is not limited otherwise, so this can be a useful loan to fill in whatever tuition gaps aren’t covered by other sources of funding. These loans also provide flexible repayment options, such as graduated and extended repayment plans, as well as deferment and forbearance.

As far as federal loans go, interest rates on Parent PLUS Loans are relatively high. So, it may be worth considering having your child take out other federal loans that carry lower interest rates. Parent PLUS Loans also come with a relatively high origination fee of 4.228% for the 2025-2026 academic year.

Applying for Parent PLUS Loans

To apply for a Parent PLUS Loan, parents will have to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®. In addition to the FAFSA, there is a separate application form for Parent PLUS Loans . Most schools accept an online application. For any questions, contact the school’s financial aid office.

Unlike other federal student loans, there is a credit check during the application process for Parent PLUS loans. One of the eligibility requirements is that borrowers not have an adverse credit history. However, parents who do not qualify for a Parent PLUS Loan due to their credit history, may be able to add an endorser in order to qualify. An endorser is someone who signs onto the loan with the borrower and agrees to make payments on the loan if the borrower is unable to do so.

Repaying a Parent PLUS Loan

​​PLUS Loan terms are limited to 10 to 25 years, depending on the chosen repayment plan, and do not offer income-driven repayment plans like other federal loans do (although they become eligible for the Income-Contingent Repayment Plan if they are consolidated through a Direct Consolidation Loan).

Parents have the option of requesting a deferment if they do not want to make payments on their PLUS loan while their child is actively enrolled in school. If a parent does not request deferment, payments will begin as soon as the loan is disbursed.

Keep in mind that interest will continue to accrue during periods of deferment, so deferring payments while your child is in school may increase the overall cost of borrowing the loan.

Private Parent Student Loans

In some cases, it might make sense to turn to private lenders for student loans. If you have a solid credit history (among other factors), you may be able to secure a reasonable interest rate.

Recommended: Private vs. Federal Student Loans

Before taking on a private student loan, here are some things to be aware of:

•   Always read the fine print.

•   Origination fees will vary from lender to lender.

•   There may not be flexible repayment options, and private loans typically don’t offer deferment or forbearance options the way federal loans do.

•   The amount you may qualify to borrow will likely vary.

The application process for private parent student loans will likely differ based on the individual lenders. Repayment terms and options will also generally vary by lender.

Keep in mind that private student loans don’t offer the same borrower protections, like deferment options, as federal student loans. For this reason, they are typically borrowed after other options, like savings, federal student loans, and scholarships, have been exhausted.

💡 Quick Tip: New to private student loans? Visit the Private Student Loans Glossary to get familiar with key terms you will see during the process.

Named a Best Private Student Loans
Company by U.S. News & World Report.


Cosigning Private Student Loan for Your Child

Cosigning a private student loan with your child means that you both have skin in the game. Cosigning a loan typically means each party is equally responsible for the debt. So if your child stops paying, you’re still on the hook for all of the debt.

Most college-age students have had little chance to build their own credit, so having parents — with better, or at least longer, financial histories — as cosigners might mean a better rate than if they applied on their own.

Parents can work out a plan in which both parents and children make payments, or it may even make sense to have a cosigned loan on which only the child makes payments.

Considerations Before Borrowing a Parent Student Loan

As a parent, of course you want the best for your child and to help them in any way you can. Whether or not you decide to take out a student loan to put your child through school is a decision to weigh carefully.

Your choice will likely have a lot to do with your own financial situation. Consider how taking out student loans may affect your own financial goals, especially retirement.

Staying on track for retirement requires a concerted effort during your earning years. That is in part because it can be more difficult to borrow money to cover your retirement expenses when you’re retired, because you will no longer be earning an income to help you pay back borrowed money.

So, before taking on student debt for your children, you’ll probably want to make sure you’re saving enough for your own future. After all, your children likely have decades of potential earnings after they graduate, during which time they can work to pay off their student loans. You, on the other hand, may not have as much time to pay off new debts and save for other goals.

It may also be worth considering how taking on new debt could affect things like your credit score and your debt-to-income ratio. Lenders consider these factors, among others, when deciding whether to loan you money.

That said, if you feel you are financially strong enough to take on student loans for your child, there are a number of loan options available to you. You may even want to consider refinancing student loans you have if you can qualify for a lower interest rate or more favorable terms.

When you refinance student loans, you replace your existing loans with a new loan from a private lender. If you get a lower interest rate, you may save money on interest over the life of the loan. While it’s possible to refinance both federal and student loans, it’s important to be aware that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal benefits like income-driven repayment plans and deferment.

The Takeaway

Parent student loans can be borrowed by a student’s parents and used to help pay for educational expenses like tuition. Before borrowing a federal or private parent student loan, parents should evaluate their own financial situation and goals, such as retirement savings.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Do parents who make $120,000 still qualify for the FAFSA?

There are no income limits to qualify for federal financial aid through the FAFSA. Students, regardless of how much their parents make, should submit the FAFSA. The amount of money the student is eligible to receive will vary based on income, but you may still qualify for certain types of federal aid, including grants and loans.

What are the disadvantages of Parent PLUS loans?

Disadvantages of Parent PLUS loans include the fact that they have relatively high interest rates — 8.94% for the 2025-26 school year (compared to 6.39% for federal Direct loans for undergraduate students). Also, unlike other federal student loans, Parent PLUS loans involve a credit check in order to qualify. Finally, these loans are not eligible for income-driven repayment plans.

What disqualifies you from a Parent PLUS loan?

One thing that could disqualify you for a Parent PLUS loan is if you have an adverse credit history. These loans stipulate that you must not have an adverse credit history in order to be eligible.

However, if your application is denied because of this, you still have options. For example, you could get an endorser who agrees to pay back the loan if you can’t. You can also file an appeal to ask for another review of your application. With either of these options, you will also have to complete PLUS Credit Counseling, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes and can be done online at the Federal Student Aid website.


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).

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 Loan Products
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.


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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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 Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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What Can You Use Student Loans For?

Student loans are meant to be used to pay for your education and related expenses so that you can earn a college degree. Even if you end up with more student loan money than you need, it doesn’t mean you should use student loans for living expenses that are nonessential.

By learning the answer to the question what can you use student loans for?, you can make wise use of your money and potentially end up in a stable financial situation after graduation.

Key Points

•   Student loans are designed to be used for expenses related to a borrower’s education, such as tuition and fees, housing, and books and supplies.

•   For students who live off campus, student loans can be used to cover rent and utilities.

•   Transportation expenses to and from school are considered an eligible expense for student loans.

•   Student loans cannot be used for nonessential expenses, such as vacations, movie or concert tickets, or gym memberships.

•   Borrowers who receive a student loan refund may want to send those extra funds back to their loan servicer, rather than spending, to save money on what they’ll owe after graduation.

What Can You Use Student Loans For? (5 Eligible Expenses)

Here are five things you can spend your student loan funds on to help pay for college.

1. Tuition and Fees

The first thing your student loans are intended to cover is your college tuition and fees. The average college tuition and fees for a private institution in the U.S. is $38,421 per year, while the average for a public, out-of-state school is $28,445 per year, and a public, in-state school is $9,750 per year.

2. Books and Supplies

Beyond tuition and fees, student loans can be used to purchase textbooks and supplies, such as a laptop, notebooks and pens, and a backpack. You may be able to save money by purchasing used textbooks online or by renting textbooks instead of purchasing them.

3. Housing Costs

If you’ve been wondering, can you use student loans for rent?, you’re in luck : Your student loans can be used to pay for housing costs, whether you live in a dormitory or off-campus. If you choose to live off-campus, you can put your loans toward your rent as well as related expenses, such as your utility bills.

Compare the costs of on-campus vs. off-campus housing, and consider getting a roommate to help cover the costs of living off-campus.

4. Transportation

If you have a car on campus or you need to take public transportation to get to school or an internship, you can use your student loans to pay for those costs. If you have a car, you may want to consider leaving it at home when you go away to school. Gas, maintenance, and a parking pass could end up costing much more than using public transportation and your school’s shuttle, which should be free.

5. Food

When it comes to using student loans for living expenses, food qualifies as a valid expense. That includes meals you cook yourself or your school’s meal plan. Instead of eating out or getting takeout frequently, you could save money by cooking at home, splitting food costs with a roommate, and asking if local establishments have discounts for college students.

Recommended: 23 Tips on Saving Money Daily

What Not to Use Student Loans For (5 Ineligible Expenses)

Now that you know what student loans can be used for, you’re likely wondering what they should not be used for. While your lender is probably not tracking your expenses, it’s not wise to use student loans for non-school related expenses. Remember, you will eventually have to pay this money back, with interest.

Here are five expenses that should not be covered with funds from your student loans.

1. Entertainment

Going to movies and concerts are part of the college experience, but you should not use your student loans to pay for your entertainment. Your campus likely offers plenty of free and low-cost entertainment events, such as sports games and campus movie nights. You can also consider getting a job on campus to help pay for entertainment and fun.

2. Vacations

College can be a lot of work, and you deserve a vacation from the stress every once in a while. However, if you can’t afford to pay to go away for spring break or another type of trip out of your own pocket, then you should put it off. It’s never a good idea to use your student loans to cover these expenses.

3. Gym Membership

You may have belonged to a gym at home before you went to college and want to keep up your membership there. You can, as long as you don’t use your student loans to cover the cost. Many colleges and universities have a gym or fitness center on campus that is available to students and included in the price of tuition.

4. A New Car

Even if you need a new car, student loans cannot be used to buy a new vehicle. Consider taking public transportation instead.

5. Extra Food Costs

While you and your roommates may love pizza, it’s not a good idea to use your student loan money to cover the cost. You also shouldn’t dine out too much with your loan money. Stick to eating at home or in the dining hall, and only going out to eat occasionally with your own money.

Student Loan Spending Rules

The amount of financial aid a student receives is based largely on each academic institution’s calculated cost of attendance, which may include factors like your financial need and your Student Aid Index, or SAI. Your cost of attendance minus your SAI generally helps determine how much need-based aid you’re eligible for. To determine how much non-need-based aid you may get (such as federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, for instance), the school subtracts the financial aid you’ve already been awarded from the cost of attendance.

When you take out student loans, you sign a promissory note outlining what you’re supposed to be spending your loan money on. Those restrictions may vary depending on what kind of loan you received — federal or private, federal subsidized or unsubsidized. If the restrictions aren’t clear, it’s a good idea to ask your lender, “What can you use student loans for?”

Sometimes, students may end up with a student loan refund, which is what’s left after scholarships, grants, and loans are applied toward tuition, campus housing, fees, and other necessary charges. If you don’t need the refund for education-related expenses, it’s a good idea to send it back to your loan servicer. Just contact them and they’ll give you instructions for how to return the money. That way, you’ll have less to repay later, after you graduate.

Alternatives to Using Student Loans

Student loans help make college affordable, but you may not need to cover all of your tuition and living expenses with loans. Here are some alternative ideas to help fund your college education:

Work Part-time While in School

While working and attending college is not easy, it’s possible. According to one recent survey, 68% of students maintain a job while in school. Working is a way to pay for additional living expenses and potentially reduce your student loan debt and.

Apply for Scholarships

There are thousands of scholarships available for many different types of students — it’s just a matter of locating them. Putting in the time to find a scholarship, apply, and hopefully, get awarded, may save you thousands of dollars in tuition over the course of your college years.

Attend a Community College

One of the best ways to cut down on the cost of college and reduce your student loan debt is to choose a less expensive route, such as a community college or in-state institution. The average cost of community college is $3,598 per year for in-state students. Consider taking the prerequisites you need at a local community college and then transferring to an in-state public university.

Refinancing Student Loans

If you’re interested in adjusting the terms of your student loans or securing a new interest rate, you may want to explore the option to refinance student loans. With refinancing, you trade your existing loans for a new loan from a private lender.

Refinancing can allow qualifying borrowers to secure a lower student loan refinancing rate or more favorable loan terms, which could potentially save them money over the long run.

A student loan refinancing calculator can help you determine if refinancing makes sense for you financially.
Just be aware that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal borrower benefits and protections, including federal deferment options and income-driven repayment plans. If you think you might need these benefits, refinancing probably isn’t the right choice for you.

Recommended: Student Loan Consolidation vs. Refinancing

The Takeaway

Student loans are meant to be used to pay for qualifying educational expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, supplies, transportation, and food. Expenses like entertainment, vacations, and cars cannot generally be paid for with student loans.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.


With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Can you use student loans for rent?

Yes, you can use student loans for rent while attending college. Student loans can be used to pay for your housing costs, including living off-campus in an apartment. In addition to rent, you can also use your student loans to pay for utilities.

Can I use my student loan for living expenses?

You can use your student loans for basic living expenses related to your education. This includes housing on-campus and off-campus; food such as your college meal plan or groceries; and transportation to and from school. You cannot use student loans for expenses like movie tickets, streaming services, vacations, or gym memberships.

What can student loans be used for?

Student loans can be used to pay for expenses related to your education, including tuition and fees, books and supplies such as a laptop or backpack, housing on-campus or off-campus, food such as a college meal plan or groceries for cooking at home, and transportation to and from college or an internship program.

Are there restrictions on how student loans are spent?

Yes. When you take out student loans, you sign a promissory note outlining the terms and conditions of the loan, including what you can and can’t spend your loan money on. Student loans are meant to be used for essential education-related expenses, such as tuition and fees, room and board, and transportation to and from school. They are not meant to be used for things like entertainment, vacations and items that are not essential to your education.

Can I use student loans for off-campus housing or utilities?

Yes, you can use student loans to pay for off-campus housing costs like rent and utilities. These are considered housing expenses essential to your education.


About the author

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell

Kylie Ora Lobell is a personal finance writer who covers topics such as credit cards, loans, investing, and budgeting. She has worked for major brands such as Mastercard and Visa, and her work has been featured by MoneyGeek, Slickdeals, TaxAct, and LegalZoom. Read full bio.


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).

SoFi Loan Products
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.


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.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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