As confusion and uncertainty around student debt repayment mounts, more and more borrowers are considering student loan refinancing options. Recent developments indicate that the student loan repayment freeze may get extended further.
When you refinance, a lender pays off your existing loans with a new one at a lower interest rate. That can save you money in the short and long term. To begin exploring student debt refinancing, you should keep a few key considerations in mind:
Credit History
Make sure to have a good credit history by making timely payments not only towards student debt but also other obligations like mortgages, car payments, and any credit cards. A high credit score can help you qualify for lower interest rates.
Steady Income
A steady income would give you an edge over other applicants. A strong work profile ensures that you can repay your loan installments on a timely basis without any defaults. Also, a good professional background is an indication of career growth and rising income which can be utilized to secure the best loan possible.
Debt-to-Income ratio
A debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of gross monthly income that is used to repay debt, such as student loans, credit cards, auto, and housing payments. The debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is a measure of the borrower’s financial health. Typically, a DTI of 50% or less is at least required to secure a loan.
Co-Signer Requirements
Many refinancing lenders will require a co-signer if you have a weak or substandard credit profile. Be prepared by having a co-signer identified beforehand. Finding someone on short notice is not only difficult but unfair to the co-signer if you are not giving them enough time to potentially take on such an important financial obligation.
Interest rate comparison
Get in touch with all the major student loan lenders in the market. Compare what they are offering especially in terms of interest rates. Evaluate every option possible to find the one which best suits your needs.
Beware of Frauds
Once you start searching for student loan refinancers, you might become a target of loan scammers. Here is an article to help you avoid falling prey to such scams.
Lender Selection
Choosing the right lender is the most critical part of the refinancing process. A thorough study about the lender is necessary. Some of the key considerations are:
- Approval requirements
- Options available in case you lose your job
- Co-signer requirements
- Prepayment option
- Options available in case of Death or Disability
- Default or Late fees
- Lender’s reputation
Consider Income-Based Repayment Plans
Income-based student refinancing is an innovative approach for student debt refinancing. Utilizing Income Share Agreements (ISA), repayment becomes a percentage of your income. ISAs also provide inherent consumer protections. Defynance is the only one that offers them today. You can learn more and apply here.
