With the average student loan debt nearing $30,000, borrowers are facing long repayment timelines. Paying loans off faster saves significantly on interest payments over time. This guide covers actionable strategies to accelerate student debt repayment.
Pay Above the Minimum Due
Paying even an extra $25-$50 above the minimum required payment each month can shave months or years off loan terms. Increase the gap as finances allow.
Target Loans Aggressively
The “debt avalanche” method pays minimums on all loans, while attacking the highest interest loan. Once paid off, focus intensity on the next highest rate.
Refinance for Lower Rates
Qualified borrowers who refinance through private lenders can secure significantly lower interest rates, reducing amounts paid towards interest rather than principal each month.
Use Windfalls Wisely
Putting tax refunds, inheritance, bonuses or gifted cash towards loans pays down balances faster rather than spending it. Every bit towards principal counts.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best repayment strategy?
A: The “debt avalanche” method focusing payment intensity on highest interest rates first is optimal for interest savings.
Q: Should I consolidate or keep loans separate?
A: Consolidation can simplify managing multiple loans through one payment, but you lose loan-specific focus in aggressively paying down highest interest debt.
Q: How much can I repay per month realistically?
A: Budget carefully and allot anywhere from an extra $25 up to hundreds more per month towards student loans to find a repayment acceleration level you can sustain long-term.
With strategic dedication of extra cash flow towards principal balances, borrowers can eliminate student debt well ahead of schedule and save immensely on interest payments.