SoFi Blog

Barnum Financial Group recently added a student loan contribution program to the list of benefits available to their new advisors—and, during our conversations with them, we talked about how a principal payment from an employer has value beyond the amount of the actual monthly contribution.

For example, when you front-load the amount of money put down on a student loan, you can pay the loan down more quickly and reduce the amount of money that’s paid back, overall.

To help quantify the value of an employers’ contribution to your student loan debt, you can use our student loan debt navigator tool.

The start of the year is a common time for reflection, and last year was an amazing year in the markets. Despite geopolitical headwinds, the U.S. stock market reached all-time highs and all major asset classes around the globe ended the year in positive territory.

As you settle into the new year, let’s recap some major highlights from last year along with some potential developments to monitor.

After a few years in the dorms, you and your friends are thrilled to be moving into your very own college apartment. You have grand plans for decorating the space to highlight each of your eclectic styles and make it feel like a relaxing sanctuary you can return to after a busy day of classes and meetings on campus.

Unfortunately, your bank account has other ideas. The list of decor you’ve compiled isn’t exactly in line with what you can realistically afford on a college student’s budget. You may have to forgo the Himalayan salt lamp for more practical apartment additions like, you know, dishes?

With a little effort (and some flexibility in your wish list) you can find ways to furnish your apartment on a budget.

Continuing your education through graduate school can be an exciting decision. Grad school can mean an opportunity to further your knowledge and expertise in your chosen field, and may lead to a lucrative and fulfilling career. But all that potential often comes with a shiny price tag.

The average graduate student spent approximately $24,812 on grad school costs during the 2016-17 school year, according to the most recent “How America Pays for Graduate School” report by Sallie Mae.

In reality, the actual cost of getting a graduate degree can vary widely due to a number of different factors including the type of degree you are pursuing and enrollment status.

Social media makes it easy for us to share our lives with friends and family. Your dog is looking particularly cute today? Snap a pic and add it to your Instagram story. Selling a few items before a big move? Share the news on Facebook so your friends have first dibs on the goods.

While social media seems like a fun addition to your day to day activity, it can come with some unexpected dangers. Even if you don’t think you’re sharing impactful details, it’s important to think of how to keep information secure on the internet.