Podcasts about parent plus

In this episode you will hear: Mark reads Part 2 of 11 articles the Chronicle for Higher Ed released o the dire financial crisis colleges face (10:25) Christina Lopez and Mark discuss a question from a listener about the Parent Plus loan changes Mark explains new creative and aggressive recruiting colleges are us (59:07) Mark interviews Dan Chambliss on how to get the most out of college. They also discuss why a liberal arts education delivers such value. Recommended Resources JG Talks: Helping prospective and current college students achieve success Colleges that allow self reporting of test scores Colleges that Allow Self-Reporting of SAT and ACT Scores Great source for questions about finances and college Edvisors: Financial Aid, Student Loans, Scholarships and Money Management FAFSA Walkthroughs Mark recommends Complete FAFSA 2026‑2027 Walkthrough | From Start to Submit 2023-2024 FAFSA Walkthrough Video English CSS PROFILE Walkthroughs CSS Profile Walkthrough MEFA Institute: A Deep Dive into the CSS Profile Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast. You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you, your positive feedback will make their day. To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses. Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/blog/ 1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used, will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK. Please follow our podcast. It really helps us move up in Spotify and Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live. Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-books/ Check out the college websites Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-websites/ If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScCauBgityVXVHRQUjvlIRfYrMWWdHarB9DMQGYL0472bNxrw/viewform If you want a college consultation with Mark just text Mark at 404-664-4340 or email at mark@schoolmatch4u.com. All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Since the One Big Beautiful Bill, the final student loan regulations have started landing, and we're seeing the real-world fallout in consultations every single day. We bring you what that looks like from the front lines: the latest ATF update on IDR backlogs, PSLF buyback wait times, and forgiveness eligibility checks, plus a few other things worth watching. We also cover the consolidation trap new grads need to avoid, Parent PLUS loans showing up on files where they don't belong, and what the July 1 deadline really means if you're still stuck on SAVE.Key moments:(01:52) Why the ATF lawsuit updates matter for IDR and PSLF backlogs(04:06) How forgiveness timing could trigger bigger tax bills in 2027(08:36) 88,000 pending PSLF buyback applicants, duplicate applications, and delays(12:14) Parent PLUS loan confusion: When your file shows loans you never took out(20:10) Why new grads should think hard before consolidating, and how it can lock you into a 30-year planLike the show? There are several ways you can help!Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon MusicLeave an honest review on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the newsletterJoin SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member communityFeeling helpless when it comes to your student loans?Try our free student loan calculatorCheck out our refinancing bonuses we negotiatedBook your custom student loan planGet profession-specific financial planningDo you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!Mentioned in this episode:Want more? Check out our other podcastStarting to think beyond your student loans? Check out our other show, Financially Free Era. It's about what comes next, investing, building wealth, and designing a life you actually want. Find "Financially Free Era by SLP Wealth" in your podcast app.Tips I Can't Share PubliclyGetting our free newsletter? Upgrade your experience and discover student loan loopholes so good, they might get repealed if I talk about them publicly. Find out my very best thought leadership that I really just can't be open about anymore, unfortunately. If you want to get our very best tips, not just the ones that I can share for free. Go to studentloanplanner.com/insider to get a special discount for your year membership.

Terry Savage, nationally-syndicated money columnist, joins Lisa Dent to discuss the July 1st deadline for Parent PLUS College loan borrowers to access repayment plans. Later, Terry shares her thoughts on the future of AI.

Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins John Williams to talk about a deadline for Parent PLUS loans that you need to know about, what to know about the SpaceX IPO, and to answer all of your financial questions.

Student loans are changing in a major way, and many borrowers may not realize how much their repayment options could shift. In this episode of The New Money Habits Podcast, Nino Villa is joined by student loan coach Renée Earwood to talk through the federal student loan changes scheduled for July 1, 2026. Renée explains why this date matters, how the current student loan system is being restructured, and why borrowers should not assume their repayment plan will simply stay the same with a few minor tweaks. They discuss the SAVE plan going away, changes to income-driven repayment options, the new Repayment Assistance Plan, forgiveness timelines, possible tax consequences, and why borrowers may see their monthly payments increase. Renée also explains why Parent PLUS borrowers may be especially affected and why it is important to understand your loan type, repayment plan, income, family size, tax filing status, and long-term financial goals before making decisions. If you have student loans, Parent PLUS loans, or someone in your household is preparing to borrow for college, this conversation is an important place to start. The rules are changing, and the more clearly you understand your options now, the better prepared you can be before those changes take effect. Learn more at NewMoneyHabits.com Join the New Money Habits CommunityStart your 7-day free trial and connect with others building healthier money habits. Memberships start at $7/month. Helpful Resources Mentioned in This Episode Watch on YouTubeFull video version of this episode. Payday Power PlannerA free tool to help you plan your money between paychecks and make clearer decisions before the next payday arrives. Food Number CalculatorA free tool to help simplify food budgeting and planning. Submit Your QuestionsEmail us at podcast@newmoneyhabits.com Join Our Free Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/newmoneyhabits Schedule a Free Call with Coach Ninohttps://www.newmoneyhabits.com/freesession Online Course: How to Create a Better BudgetYour Foundation to Financial Freedomhttps://www.newmoneyhabits.com/bootcamp Music CreditsThis episode features music by Summer School. Connect With UsFollow @newmoneyhabits on social media for more insights, tools, and updates.

Everyone's wondering whether AI is coming for their job (or wallet), so it's fair to ask how close AI tools are to replacing a real human student loan advisor or even your future career. We get into why some professions may weather the AI storm better than others, what the superstar effect means for your career (and your loans), and how upcoming policy changes like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will shake up borrowing limits, the decision between federal versus private loans, and long-term strategy.We also share where human advice will always matter, and what all this means for you if you're managing loans, borrowing for school, or about to choose a degree.Key moments:(03:43) Comparing new AI models for real-life financial analysis(05:20) The “superstar effect” and how AI will widen the gap between top and average earners(09:54) Why real human expertise still matters most for high-stakes student loan decisions(12:45) Upcoming federal loan limits, Parent PLUS problems, and the likely chaos from the One Big Beautiful Bill ActLike the show? There are several ways you can help!Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon MusicLeave an honest review on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the newsletterJoin SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member communityFeeling helpless when it comes to your student loans?Try our free student loan calculatorCheck out our refinancing bonuses we negotiatedBook your custom student loan planGet profession-specific financial planningDo you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!Mentioned in this episode:Free Student Loan newsletterIf you are not already getting our weekly newsletter every Thursday, you are missing out. We break down studio loan news, updates, money tips, all in one helpful newsletter. Sign up for free at https://studentloanplanner.com/newsletterThe SLP YouTube ChannelIf you're more of a visual learner or you like seeing charts, breakdowns, and exploring other topics, check out https://youtube.com/studentloanplanner

This week on "Financial Planning: Explained", host Michael Menninger, CFP welcomes Mackensie Ellis. Mackensie is a student loan professional at Juno. Juno student loans uses collective bargaining power to negotiate better rates on undergraduate, graduate, and refinance student loans. In this episode, Mackensie and Mike discuss what Juno is an how the service works. They also talk about federal vs private student loans, along with the pros and cons of each. Other topics include: Parent PLUS loans and Stafford loans. This is a great episode for students of any age that are looking to negotiate a better student loan rate, or refinance their current loan. ​ For more information on Menninger & Associates Financial Planning visit https://maaplanning.com.

Rae Kaplan of Kaplan Law joins Jon Hansen to discuss the story of a borrower who received a letter stating her loans had been paid off, then received a lawsuit from the company to collect her full balance. Plus, Rae shares the changes coming to Parent PLUS loan borrowers.

It's YOUR time to #EdUp with ⁠Ethan Pollack, Senior Director of Financing the Future Initiative, Jobs For the Future (JFF)In this episode, sponsored by EdUp Leadership, the ​HigherEd PodCon​ II happening July 16 & 17, & the 2026 AcOps Conference July 29-31 by CoursedogYOUR host is Dr. Joe SallustioHow does outcomes based financing shift risk away from students by basing payments on earnings rather than fixed dollar amounts? Why did Purdue's Back a Boiler ISA increase completion by 12 points overall & 17 points for Hispanic students while 2/3 paid less than Parent Plus? What makes federal loan limits frozen since 2008 leave students with $20,000 to $50,000 gaps requiring new financing models? Listen in to #EdUpThank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp!Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Elvin Freytes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dr. Joe Sallustio⁠⁠⁠⁠● Join YOUR EdUp community at The EdUp ExperienceWe make education YOUR business!P.S. Want to access to EdUp Leadership, the only intelligence platform built exclusively from presidential conversations in higher ed?

A candid look at what our student loan experts are seeing in real-time consultations. The throughline: borrowers need to pull their heads out of the sand because too many are sitting on consolidation deadlines, surprise recertifications, and PSLF misconceptions that could cost them years of credit. The conversation moves from urgent Parent PLUS deadlines to PSLF edge cases, then to disability planning and ABLE accounts — every topic drawn from patterns the team is seeing across recent consults.Key moments:(03:47) Parent PLUS borrowers must consolidate before July 1 to preserve IDR access(08:09) Servicers are pulling tax data months early — revoke IRS consent to control your recertification(22:29) Big Beautiful Bill removes IBR's hardship test, reopening PSLF for high earners(36:13) Disability creates two tracks: IDR recalculation for income drops, or Total and Permanent Disability Discharge(42:07) ABLE accounts let families save for disability expenses with tax-free growth, and 529 funds can roll inResources mentioned: StudentAid.gov - official Federal Student Aid site for IDR, consolidation, PSLF, disability discharge, and more Like the show? There are several ways you can help!Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon MusicLeave an honest review on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the newsletterJoin SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member communityFeeling helpless when it comes to your student loans?Try our free student loan calculatorCheck out our refinancing bonuses we negotiatedBook your custom student loan planGet profession-specific financial planningDo you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!Mentioned in this episode:The SLP YouTube ChannelIf you're more of a visual learner or you like seeing charts, breakdowns, and exploring other topics, check out https://youtube.com/studentloanplannerFree Student Loan newsletterIf you are not already getting our weekly newsletter every Thursday, you are missing out. We break down studio loan news, updates, money tips, all in one helpful newsletter. Sign up for free at https://studentloanplanner.com/newsletter

It's the money roadmap you need now to help you build long-term financial security. We're sharing five money moves you can make today, what you need to know before switching career paths, and the one student loan deadline that you can't afford to miss.  For more information, show notes and transcripts visit https://www.ada.org/podcast Featured Guests:   Joseph McGrath  Dani Buschick  Dr. Michael Jerkins  Show Notes  In this episode, we explore practical ways to take control of your finances and plan for long-term financial security. We're talking about student loans, what to know when switching careers, and the five money moves you can make right now.   To help explain what everyone needs to know about student loans, we asked our friend Joseph McGrath from KeyBank to walk us through new details, dates, and updates.  Mr. McGrath shares that big student loan changes are coming, and that July 1, 2026, is the key date to know. He explains that some programs are being phased out, and that federal repayment options may narrow significantly.  Big changes are underway for income-driven repayment as well, impacting both dentists and residents. With new federal loan caps and fewer repayment options, Mr. McGrath underscores the importance of borrowers understanding their loan structure, exploring available options, and seeking professional guidance to navigate the changes.  Dani Buschick, financial wellness coach, and host of the podcast Life. Money. You. joins us to break down the five numbers every dentist should know to take control of their financial well-being.   Ms. Buschick offers actionable tips and an easy-to-follow framework for creating spending plans, automating savings, and building lasting financial stability.  Small actions can create big impact. Ms. Buschick emphasizes the importance of understanding your debt, building an emergency fund, protecting your credit, automating savings, and using available resources available, like free financial coaching, to create sustainable habits and personalized financial plans.  Our next guest, Dr. Michael Jerkins, joins us to talk about how to navigate career transitions. Dr. Jerkins is the President and Co-founder of Panacea Financial and is also a practicing physician in Little Rock, AR.  Dr. Jerkins explores the transition between employee and practice owner roles and highlights the financial and personal considerations involved in these career shifts.  To prepare for these career transitions, Dr. Jerkins emphasizes the importance of building a trusted advisory team, assessing your financial readiness, and developing a clear plan.     Resources  Read an ADA News story about how the One Big Beautiful Bill impacts student loans. Learn more about ADA Member Advantage partner KeyBank. ADA Credit Union is tailored for ADA member dentists, their teams and everyone's extended families — offering exclusive financial products and personalized coaching that support your goals through every life stage. Visit ADACU.org to learn more. Banking Built for Dentists. Not Shareholders. At ADA Credit Union, your money works for you—because you own it. If you're part of the dental profession, your financial institution should be too. Join ADA Credit Union. Member‑owned. Dentist‑focused. Built for your future. At the Credit Union, financial well-being comes first. Life. Money. You.® (LMY) is ADA Credit Union's holistic financial well-being program, designed to help you achieve financial success through digital tools, one-on-one coaching, and practical resources. Check out the latest episode of the Life. Money. You. Podcast. Read more about Panacea Financial and the savings for ADA members. Keep learning! Watch another episode on smart finances for dentists. Not an ADA member yet? Join the ADA to get access to these resources and more. Visit ADA.org/join to get started. Connect with us through ADA on social media! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok. Disclosures  This podcast is produced for information purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation of any product. KeyBank and its affiliates are not providing any financial, economic, legal, accounting or tax advice or recommendations in this podcast. The information contained in this recording may not be current, and KeyBank has no obligation to provide any updates or changes. Neither KeyBank nor any of its affiliates makes any representation or warranty, of any kind, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information in this podcast and expressly disclaims any and all liabilities around such. Key.com/ADA  IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Please note that if you refinance qualifying federal student loans, you will no longer be eligible for certain federal benefits or programs and waive your right to future benefits or programs offered on those loans, which may include, but are not limited to, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Driven Repayment plans, forbearance, or certain forgiveness options granted to Parent Plus borrowers. Please carefully consider your options when refinancing federal student loans and consult http://www.studentaid.gov for the most current information. 

What if your student loan strategy is one of the most important wealth-building decisions you'll ever make? In the final episode of Dr. Lauryn's three-part student loan series, she sits down with Lauryn Williams of Student Loan Planner to unpack the massive changes coming to student loans and what healthcare providers need to know before making their next move.Together, they discuss the new RAP plan, forgiveness timelines, private loans, consolidation versus refinancing, Parent PLUS loans, and why “just pay it off as fast as possible” can be dangerous advice. Lauryn also explains why debt repayment, retirement, emergency savings, and building your rich doctor life need to happen together, not one after the other.Book your consultation with Student Loan Planner today and secure a discount for being a She Slays listener!Key Takeaways:Student loan rules are changing fast, and the right repayment plan depends heavily on your income, debt load, career path, and whether you are still borrowing.For many healthcare providers, student loan debt cannot be treated separately from wealth building. Retirement, emergency savings, home buying, and practice ownership still need a plan.Consolidation and refinancing are not the same thing, and making the wrong move at the wrong time could dramatically change your repayment or forgiveness timeline.Parent PLUS borrowers may be especially impacted by upcoming changes and should understand their options before key deadlines.Guest Bio:Lauryn Williams is a CFP, student loan advisor at Student Loan Planner, founder of the financial firm Worth Winning, and host of the Worth Listening podcast. Since joining Student Loan Planner in 2018, Lauryn has helped borrowers navigate an increasingly complex student loan landscape, especially as repayment plans, forgiveness options, and federal rules continue to change. Before her career in financial planning, Lauryn was a four-time Olympian and three-time Olympic medalist.Book your consultation with Student Loan Planner today and secure a discount for being a She Slays listener!Follow Lauryn: LinkedIn | Student Loan PlannerResources:Follow Dr. Lauryn: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInFollow She Slays on YouTube

#711: A computer science degree used to feel like a sure thing. Job placement rates topped 90 percent. Starting salaries cleared $80,000. You could do the math on your student loans before you enrolled. That math doesn't work the same way anymore. New York Times "Your Money" columnist Ron Lieber joins us to walk through what families actually need to know before borrowing for college. He covers how to use the federal College Scorecard to look up earnings by school and by major. He explains why the scariest student loan headlines are almost always about graduate school rather than undergraduate debt. And he makes the case that liberal arts majors tend to catch up to their STEM peers by mid-career - even if the early numbers don't show it. Lieber also makes a case that the financial return on college extends beyond salary data. Alumni networks, mentorship, and lifelong friendships all factor into the equation. He suggests asking schools pointed questions about reunion attendance and alumni giving rates as a way to gauge how connected - and how useful - a community actually stays after graduation. On the debt question, Lieber draws a clear line between federal undergraduate loans, which cap around $31,000, and the more dangerous combinations of Parent PLUS loans and private debt that drive the horror stories you see in the news. He also addresses the community college path in detail - including what it actually takes to pull it off without losing time or credits along the way. The conversation closes with a framework for parents: keep sparking conversations with your kids, stay curious about what they're drawn to, and treat yourself less as an advice-giver and more as someone planting seeds. Share this episode with a friend, colleagues, and your college student: https://affordanything.com/episode711 Timestamps: Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising run times. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. (00:00) No BLS jobs report today  (01:41) Ron Lieber intro – NYT personal finance columnist, student debt expert (02:41) College still worth it? Ron says yes, despite tough entry-level job market (05:03) How to use the College Scorecard  (06:27) Liberal arts majors often catch up by mid-career  (07:17) The non-financial ROI of college  (15:08) How much debt is too much? Federal undergrad cap is $31,000 (18:31) Community college as a launchpad; savings potential, but requires high executive functioning (21:36) Scary student debt headlines are mostly about grad school, not undergrad (24:39) AI and shifting willingness to pay; colleges facing enrollment pressure (37:00) Financial aid office dynamics  (40:39) Peak 18-year-olds; demographic cliff hits colleges differently by region (45:54) Location matters; urban schools have recruiter and networking advantages (54:11) Framework for parents and students; stay curious Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're bringing you a grab-bag of student loan updates you need to know about. Borrower defense letters are finally going out, long-term forgiveness is being processed (sometimes for borrowers who technically shouldn't qualify yet), and the Department of Education is quietly breaking its own IDR recertification timelines. We walk through what's actually happening, what to do if you're affected, and how to stay in control of your payment when the system isn't cooperating.Key moments:(03:16) PSLF buyback and why SAVE calculations are off the table(06:02) Long-term forgiveness is processing, including some surprising cases three years early(13:14) How to revoke tax return consent and take back control of your recertification date(16:52) What to expect when your payment changes after leaving SAVE(20:29) When your loans are incorrectly coded as Parent PLUS and the workaround to get the right payment planLike the show? There are several ways you can help!Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon MusicLeave an honest review on Apple PodcastsSubscribe to the newsletterJoin SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member communityFeeling helpless when it comes to your student loans?Try our free student loan calculatorCheck out our refinancing bonuses we negotiatedBook your custom student loan planGet profession-specific financial planningDo you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!Mentioned in this episode:Free Student Loan newsletterIf you are not already getting our weekly newsletter every Thursday, you are missing out. We break down studio loan news, updates, money tips, all in one helpful newsletter. Sign up for free at https://studentloanplanner.com/newsletterThe SLP YouTube ChannelIf you're more of a visual learner or you like seeing charts, breakdowns, and exploring other topics, check out https://youtube.com/studentloanplanner

The SAVE plan lawsuit settlement just kicked off a seismic shift in federal student loan repayment, and it's not just about picking a new plan. Find out exactly how the forbearance clock is running out for millions, what you need to know about the new RAP repayment plan, and why 2024 and 2025 tax returns are going to hit especially hard for anyone recertifying with higher income. We also look at strategies to avoid payment shock, the latest on Parent PLUS consolidation, and ripple effects for people banking on loan forgiveness or stuck in limbo with borrower defense claims. Chaos is coming, but you don't have to figure it out alone. Key moments: (01:56) Why some borrowers have 90 days to switch to a new repayment plan (06:21) How recertifying with 2024 or 2025 tax info could shock your monthly payments (08:24) When refinancing might make sense again (and why more borrowers are considering it) (12:04) Urgent deadlines and steps for Parent PLUS loan borrowers Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

Attorney Rae Kaplan of Kaplan Law Firm joins John Williams to talk about a new deadline for Parent Plus borrowers. And as always, Rae answers all of your student loan questions.

Attorney Rae Kaplan of Kaplan Law Firm joins John Williams to talk about a new deadline for Parent Plus borrowers. And as always, Rae answers all of your student loan questions.

Attorney Rae Kaplan of Kaplan Law Firm joins John Williams to talk about a new deadline for Parent Plus borrowers. And as always, Rae answers all of your student loan questions.

If you've been coasting since COVID without recertifying your income-driven repayment plan, that grace period is officially over. We break down what recertification actually looks like right now and talk about recalculation, payment caps, the kinds of forbearances that help (or hurt) your progress toward forgiveness, and a weird glitch flagging people as Parent PLUS borrowers when they're not. You'll learn where to find your recert date, what to do when your loan servicer fumbles your file, and how to avoid common mistakes in a system that seems designed to trip you up, all while staying on track for PSLF or long-term forgiveness. Key moments: (04:02) Servicers pulling income 4 months before recertification dates — and sometimes applying new payments early (06:49) How to choose whether to recalculate, switch plans, or manually recertify in the IDR recertification portal (14:59) 626,000 pending IDR applications, and what to do if yours has been sitting for months (21:01) Payment caps and why denial letters aren't always bad (24:19) The Parent PLUS glitch making recertification impossible for some, and how to fix it   Resources mentioned:  StudentAid.gov for up-to-date recertification information and account access Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

Student loans are a fact of life for many educators who relied on that support to make their education career path possible, or who are now on Parent Plus loans to help their own children achieve their college and career dreams. But, so much has changed with the federal student loan programs over the last year, it can be really hard to keep track of what any of us need to be doing to stay on track with repayments. NEA Member Benefits Affiliate Relations Lead Guy Kendall-Freas joins us for this episode to get us up to speed.GET HELP NAVIGATING YOUR STUDENT LOAN DEBT | Click here to learn more about NEA Member Benefits' Savi Student Debt Navigator tool and other student loan resources  FIND OTHER SAVINGS | Click here for more information on other NEA Member Benefits discounts and resourcesREWIND AND LEARN MORE | Click here and here to hear Guy's interviews on previous Public Education Matters episodes about the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.SUBSCRIBE | Click here to subscribe to Public Education Matters on Apple Podcasts or click here to listen on Spotify so you don't miss a thing. You can also find Public Education Matters on many other platforms. Click here for some of those links so you can listen anywhere. And don't forget you can listen to all of the previous episodes anytime on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here.Featured Public Education Matters guest:Guy Kendall-Freas, NEA Member Benefits Affiliate Relations LeadGuy Kendall-Freas is the NEA Zone 3 Lead for NEA Member Benefits, where he has been employed since 1996.  A former special education teacher in Ohio, Guy was also a leader in his local, district and OEA.  He served the Ohio Department of Education in several capacities, including the Rules Revision Committee for Special Ed Service Delivery and as one of the first practicing teachers trained as Entry Year Teacher Assessors.  Working from his office in Mansfield, Ohio, he supports members and affiliates in the 13 states comprising NEA's Zone 3.Connect with OEA:Email educationmatters@ohea.org with your feedback or ideas for future Public Education Matters topicsLike OEA on FacebookFollow OEA on TwitterFollow OEA on InstagramGet the latest news and statements from OEA hereLearn more about where OEA stands on the issues Keep up to date on the legislation affecting Ohio public schools and educators with OEA's Legislative WatchAbout us:The Ohio Education Association represents nearly 120,000 teachers, faculty members and support professionals who work in Ohio's schools, colleges, and universities to help improve public education and the lives of Ohio's children. OEA members provide professional services to benefit students, schools, and the public in virtually every position needed to run Ohio's schools.Public Education Matters host Katie Olmsted serves as Media Relations Consultant for the Ohio Education Association. She joined OEA in May 2020, after a ten-year career as an Emmy Award-winning television reporter, anchor, and producer. Katie comes from a family of educators and is passionate about telling educators' stories and advocating for Ohio's students. She lives in Central Ohio with her husband and two young children. This episode was recorded on February 25, 2026.

The One Big Beautiful Bill didn't kill PSLF outright, but once you run the numbers on the new borrowing limits and the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), the financial incentive for Public Service Loan Forgiveness essentially evaporates for future borrowers. I walk through exactly how this plays out for physicians, PAs, NPs, teachers, lawyers, and other professions — and why existing borrowers are grandfathered in but should still pay attention. I also break down what the new math means for private universities, which degrees still pencil out financially, and a critical deadline for Parent PLUS borrowers that could affect your ability to retire. Key moments: (03:57) How the new $50K/year loan cap makes PSLF nearly worthless for physicians entering med school this fall (07:51) Second-year students are grandfathered in and can borrow Grad PLUS to finish their program (09:18) How lower borrowing limits gut PSLF for NPs, PAs, teachers, and lawyers (16:09) The Parent PLUS consolidation deadline before July 2026, and why waiting too long could make income-based repayment permanently inaccessible   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

In this episode you will hear: (02:48) In Our Question from a Listener-Susan joins Mark to answer a question from an anonymous mom who wants to know if the way a college communicates with me is an indication of what my experience will be like when I arrive at the college (21:24) Mark interviews Stephen Burd, senior writer and researcher about his latest article that appears at newamerica.org on the topic of 41 colleges that are saddling a high percentage of low- income students with Parent PLUS loans-Part 3 of 3 Part 3 v Stephen talks about what he would change if he was in charge and Stephen clearly thought of this because he has a lot to say v Stephen talks about how the role of enrollment management has changed v Stephen talks about what the think tank, New America, that he works for, what does New America do? (39:01) College Spotlight 2-Grace Robertson-Lloyd, an Associate Director of Admission at Grinnell College, and a regional admission officer stationed in Denver, explains to us what the role of the Regional Admission officer is · Grace gives her backstory, including her time as a student at Grinnell · Grace talks about her first 10 years working for Grinnell in Iowa, DC and Grinnell, Iowa · Grace explains how the role of a Regional is similar and different to the role of a home-based admission officer who lives close to the college · Grace explains the trade-offs of not being able to do some things that home-based AO does, but how she has additional responsibilities that fill up her time · Grace tells us what her territory is · Grace talks about the pros and cons of being a regional that lives in the city she is recruiting from · How can a student know if they have a regional AO from a college living locally and how can a student best take advantag4e of a regional Recommended Resource Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application- Application guide for first-year students Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast. You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you your positive feedback will make their day. To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses. Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/blog/ Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast: 1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search for and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK. Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live. Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-books/ Check out the college websites Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-websites/ If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScCauBgityVXVHRQUjvlIRfYrMWWdHarB9DMQGYL0472bNxrw/viewform If you want a college consultation, text Mark at 404-664-4340, or email us at yourcollegeboundkid@yahoo.com All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Host Jonathan Hughes is joined by frequent guest of the MEFA Podcast and founder and president of The Institute of Student Loan Advisors (TISLA), Betsy Mayotte. They discuss changes to the Parent PLUS and Grad PLUS Federal Loans, as well as other changes within the federal loan programs offered by the Department of Education.

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In this episode you will hear: (03:34) In Our Question from a Listener-Hilary joins Mark to answer a question from an anonymous mom who wants to know how can I tell if a college has a commuter school culture. (24:01) Mark interviews Stephen Burd, senior writer and researcher about his latest article that appears at newamerica.org on the topic of 41 colleges that are saddling a high percentage of low- income students with Parent PLUS loans-Part 2 of 3 Part 2 v Stephen elaborates on the Parent Plus loans v Stephen discusses if non-need best aid or merit money is appropriate for schools to give out v Stephen explains how the Wall Street Journal inspired him to do more research v Stephen and I discuss how the vicious cycle and how things have changed a lot (40:57) College Spotlight-Susan Tree joins Mark Stucker to interview Kelly Walter, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Dean of Admissions at Boston University Ø Kelly and Susan share how they met Ø Kelly shares the various roles in admissions she has had and she shares why she has done admissions for 5 decades Ø Kelly shares how Boston University's Methodist roots and its history as a Bible institute originally impacts BU to this day Ø Kelly explains many areas where BU was the first university in the country to accomplish something Ø Kelly explains how BU is different from the other 40 universities in the country Ø Kelly tells us how a student applies to BU if they do not know what they want to major in? Ø Kelly tells us what the BU Hub is and what the BU cross-college challenge is? Recommended Resource Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application- Application guide for first-year students Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast. You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you your positive feedback will make their day. To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses. Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/blog/ Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast: 1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search for and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK. Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live. Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-books/ Check out the college websites Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-websites/ If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScCauBgityVXVHRQUjvlIRfYrMWWdHarB9DMQGYL0472bNxrw/viewform If you want a college consultation, text Mark at 404-664-4340, or email us at yourcollegeboundkid@yahoo.com All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Things are not "calm and predictable" in student loan land right now. Hear real stories from recent consultations and learn what actions matter most before the June 30th, 2026, consolidation deadline. We dig into what's happening with PSLF case reviews, consolidation risks, tax season strategies, and what Parent PLUS borrowers need to know now that double consolidation is gone. Even if you feel lost or overwhelmed, you'll finish this episode with a checklist of things to act on now to protect your strategy before small mistakes turn into expensive ones. Key moments: (02:22) Why PSLF payment histories are missing and how to file a complaint with StudentAid.gov (08:49) Consolidate after June 30, 2026, and you could add 10 years to forgiveness (18:37) Smart strategies for tax returns and loan recertification (26:42) Double consolidation is over for Parent PLUS borrowers — here's what to do now Resources mentioned:  File a StudentAid.gov complaint File a CFPB complaint   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

If income-driven repayment flexibility matters to you, don't wait until summer 2026. Any federal loans disbursed on or after July 1, 2026, lose access to IBR, ICR, and PAYE. Because consolidation can take months to process, treat April 1, 2026 as your planning deadline. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS What is changing with income-driven repayment? The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed July 4, 2025, restructures federal student loan repayment starting July 1, 2026. Loans disbursed on or after that date are limited to a new Standard Repayment Plan or the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP). Legacy plans — IBR, ICR, and PAYE — will not be available for those loans. Are IBR, ICR, and PAYE going away entirely? Not immediately. Borrowers with loans disbursed before July 1, 2026, who take on no new loans after that date, can still enroll in or remain on IBR, ICR, or PAYE. That said, per NASFAA's bill analysis, borrowers on ICR or PAYE must move to IBR, a standard plan, or RAP by July 1, 2028 — otherwise they are automatically placed in RAP. IBR remains available for existing borrowers on an ongoing basis. Why does consolidation matter? Borrowers with FFEL loans, Perkins loans, or mixed federal portfolios often must consolidate into a Direct Consolidation Loan to access income-driven repayment at all. Under the OBBBA, that loan must be disbursed — not just applied for — by June 30, 2026. A consolidation disbursed on or after July 1, 2026 loses access to IBR, ICR, and PAYE, even for borrowers previously enrolled in those plans. Parent PLUS borrowers have an additional requirement: a consolidation loan used to pay off a Parent PLUS loan must enter repayment under ICR before July 1, 2026 to preserve later IBR eligibility. Why April 1? April 1 is not in the law — it's a practical safety deadline. Federal Student Aid encourages borrowers who need to consolidate to apply at least three months before July 1, 2026 to ensure disbursement clears by June 30. Three months back from July 1 is April 1. What counts as "disbursed"? Disbursement means the consolidation loan has been fully processed, the underlying loans paid off, and a new Direct Consolidation Loan officially issued. Submitting an application or receiving approval does not count if the actual disbursement occurs on or after July 1, 2026. Should everyone consolidate before April 1? No — consolidation is not automatically the right move. Consider the impact on interest capitalization, existing borrower benefits, and forgiveness timelines before acting. The goal isn't "everyone consolidate." It's everyone check. Log in to StudentAid.gov, review your loan types, and determine whether action is needed before the window closes. REFERENCES NASFAA (2026, January). Federal student aid changes from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. https://www.nasfaa.org/uploads/documents/Federal_Student_Aid_Change_OB3.pdf U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid. Big updates: Changes to federal student loan repayment. https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/big-updates U.S. Congress (2025). H.R. 1 — One Big Beautiful Bill Act (119th Congress). https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text

In this episode you will hear: (02:40) In Our Question from a Listener-Carter joins Mark to respond to a comment from a listener who wants our opinion on why more dads are not involved in learning more and helping their kids with college (17:56) Mark interviews Stephen Burd, senior writer and researcher about his latest article that appears at newamerica.org on the topic of 41 colleges that are saddling a high percentage of low income students with Parent PLUS loans v Stephen gives an overview of his role at New America and his detailed report about some colleges use financial aid leveraging in conjunction with Parent Plus loans to take advantage of under-resourced students v Stephen explains why a statement that EAB, a leading enrollment management company is so offensive to him v Stephen talks about the purpose of financial aid, at least historically v Stephen explains the power of US News and World Report and their rankings v Stephen explains the growth of PLUS loans v Stephen and I explain why PLUS loans are so problematic (43:06) College Spotlight-Susan Tree joins Mark Stucker to interview Kelly Walter, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Dean of Admissions at Boston University Ø Kelly and Susan share how they met Ø Kelly shares the various roles in admissions she has had and she shares why she has done admissions for 5 decades Ø Kelly shares how Boston University's Methodist roots and its history as a Bible institute originally impacts BU to this day Ø Kelly explains many areas where BU was the first university in the country to accomplish something Ø Kelly explains how BU is different from the other 40 universities in the country Ø Kelly tells us how a student applies to BU if they do not know what they want to major in? Ø Kelly tells us what the BU Hub is and what the BU cross-college challenge is? Recommended Resource Guide to help first year students complete the Common Application- Application guide for first-year students Speakpipe.com/YCBK is our method if you want to ask a question and we will be prioritizing all questions sent in via Speakpipe. Unfortunately, we will NOT answer questions on the podcast anymore that are emailed in. If you want us to answer a question on the podcast, please use speakpipe.com/YCBK. We feel hearing from our listeners in their own voices adds to the community feel of our podcast. You can also use this for many other purposes: 1) Send us constructive criticism about how we can improve our podcast 2) Share an encouraging word about something you like about an episode or the podcast in general 3) Share a topic or an article you would like us to address 4) Share a speaker you want us to interview 5) Leave positive feedback for one of our interviewees. We will send your verbal feedback directly to them and I can almost assure you your positive feedback will make their day. To sign up to receive Your College-Bound Kid PLUS, our new monthly admissions newsletter, delivered directly to your email once a month, just go to yourcollegeboundkid.com, and you will see the sign-up popup. We will include many of the hot topics being discussed on college campuses. Check out our new blog. We write timely and insightful articles on college admissions: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/blog/ Follow Mark Stucker on Twitter to get breaking college admission news, and updates about the podcast before they go live. You can ask questions on Twitter that he will answer on the podcast. Mark will also share additional hot topics in the news and breaking news on this Twitter feed. Twitter message is also the preferred way to ask questions for our podcast: 1. To access our transcripts, click: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/category/transcripts/ 2. Find the specific episode transcripts for the one you want to search for and click the link 3. Find the magnifying glass icon in blue (search feature) and click it 4. Enter whatever word you want to search. I.e. Loans 5. Every word in that episode when the words loans are used will be highlighted in yellow with a timestamps 6. Click the word highlighted in yellow and the player will play the episode from that starting point 7. You can also download the entire podcast as a transcript We would be honored if you will pass this podcast episode on to others who you feel will benefit from the content in YCBK. Please subscribe to our podcast. It really helps us move up in Apple's search feature so others can find our podcast. If you enjoy our podcast, would you please do us a favor and share our podcast both verbally and on social media? We would be most grateful! If you want to help more people find Your College-Bound Kid, please make sure you follow our podcast. You will also get instant notifications as soon as each episode goes live. Check out the college admissions books Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-books/ Check out the college websites Mark recommends: https://yourcollegeboundkid.com/recommended-websites/ If you want to have some input about what you like and what you recommend, we change about our podcast, please complete our Podcast survey; here is the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScCauBgityVXVHRQUjvlIRfYrMWWdHarB9DMQGYL0472bNxrw/viewform If you want a college consultation, text Mark at 404-664-4340, or email us at yourcollegeboundkid@yahoo.com All we ask is that you review their services and pricing on their website before the complimentary session; here is link to their services with transparent pricing: https://schoolmatch4u.com/services/compare-packages/

Fall 2026 is shaping up to be a financial aid cliff. If you're a grad student, parent of a college student, or a current professional school attendee, the shifts in borrowing limits, repayment plans, and the fate of Grad PLUS loans could seriously affect your finances and your future. Listen in as I answer listener questions and then pivot to the big question: what happens if you (or your kid) take out even one new federal loan after July 2026? Key moments: (00:42) PSLF Buyback: Which tax years might determine your payment? (05:48) The tax-extension strategy to keep a lower IDR payment for another year (11:53) Taking out just one loan after July 2026 blocks you from everything but the RAP plan (15:18) Parents borrowing on behalf of a child face especially bad news (18:23) Should you gamble your financial future? The "retire with defaulted Parent PLUS loans" strategy   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

As featured on Home Sweet Home Chicago on 02-14-2026: Attorney Rae Kaplan of Kaplan Law Firm joins David Hochberg to talk about the latest changes that are coming for Parent Plus Borrowers and the impacts the new laws will have. For more information, call 312-294-8989.

We're taking an early look at the new student loan rules released in January 2026 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Find out why borrowers, especially Parent PLUS families, need to pay close attention. We'll explain which degrees are most affected, how professional and graduate programs are changing for loan purposes, how the RAP plan will impact repayment, and whether private lenders can keep up with demand. Key moments: (02:18) Why these regulations were rushed and what's coming next (04:40) Parent PLUS borrowers face confusing deadlines and inconsistent official guidance (11:57) Who counts as a "professional student" under new loan caps (17:47) The surprising good news on consolidation and forgiveness credit   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

Parent PLUS loans are about to get a lot more complicated, and most families have no idea what's coming. In this episode, senior student loan advisor Lauryn Williams, CFP®, CSLP®, AFC®, sits down with student loan expert Janna McKay, AFC®, CSLP®, to break down the biggest changes affecting Parent PLUS borrowers. You'll learn about the end of double consolidation, new repayment access rules, and what the July 2026 deadline really means for forgiveness and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). If you're a parent helping kids through college, this episode could save you from a costly mistake. Key moments: (06:38) Why double consolidation is officially dead (and what replaces it) (08:10) Quick clarification for borrowers who don't have Parent PLUS loans (13:38) Real client cases where consolidation mistakes caused major problems (22:43) Why borrowing after July 2026 could permanently block PSLF for parent borrowers (33:18) Legacy provisions for borrowing before July 1, 2026 vs. borrowing after     Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

On this episode of Ask Farnoosh, we kick things off with a very real reminder that homeownership is never just the mortgage. A burst hose, unexpected water damage, and rising insurance premiums spark a broader conversation about the hidden and often underestimated costs of owning a home—and why even “fixed” housing expenses rarely stay fixed. From the mailbag: questions about navigating Parent PLUS loan arrangements while buying a home, how to invest after finally paying off student loans, and whether market uncertainty means it's time to move money out of U.S. investments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2026 may be the most confusing year for student loans yet. Find out what's actually changing with repayment plans, forgiveness, and Parent PLUS loans — and learn what you should be paying attention to right now. We'll also hear real listener questions about PSLF during a government shutdown, IDR recertification delays, getting out of SAVE forbearance, and whether PSLF buyback is worth counting on. If you're feeling anxious heading into 2026, this episode can help you make smart decisions without overreacting. Key moments: (00:44) Does government shutdown time count for PSLF? (08:26) Moving out of the SAVE forbearance, PSLF buyback and family size rules (20:10) Considerations for filing taxes jointly vs. separately (29:30) Warning for Parent PLUS borrowers who are still borrowing or who haven't yet consolidated (35:31) RAP plan rollout and what borrowers should expect next Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Join SLP Insiders for student loan loopholes, SLP app and member community Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!

A new year often inspires fresh resolve. We plan more carefully, set ambitious goals, and commit to making this time different. But year after year, many resolutions quietly fade—not because people lack sincerity, but because most change efforts rely on willpower alone.That's where a deeper, more biblical approach to change comes in.Today on Faith & Finance, I sat down with Taylor Standridge, Production Manager at FaithFi and lead writer of Our Ultimate Treasure and Look at the Sparrows, to explore why so many resolutions fail—and what Scripture reveals about change that truly lasts.Why Willpower Isn't EnoughTaylor explained that most resolutions fade because they're built on effort rather than formation.“Willpower is a limited resource,” Taylor said. “We assume that if we just try harder or become more disciplined, we'll finally become the person we want to be. But once motivation wears off, or life gets stressful, old patterns take over.”According to Taylor, the problem isn't that people set bad goals—it's that they try to change actions without addressing identity. Without a deeper shift in what we value and who we believe we are, even the best intentions eventually lose momentum.“We may change what we do for a while,” Taylor said, “but if we don't change the kind of person we're becoming, those changes won't last.”Behavior Change vs. Identity TransformationTaylor drew a helpful distinction between modifying behavior and experiencing true transformation.“Behavior change is about effort—showing up, pushing through, saying no,” he said. “But identity transformation reshapes our desires and motivations. It changes why we choose what we choose.”That's why FaithFi emphasizes the idea that behavior follows belief. When change focuses only on habits, goals often end once they're achieved. But when change is rooted in identity, it cultivates a way of life that continues beyond any milestone.“It's the difference between acting healthy and becoming the kind of person who naturally chooses health,” Taylor explained.How Identity Changes the Way We Set GoalsTo illustrate, Taylor pointed to health resolutions—one of the most common goals people set each year.“A behavior-based goal might be, ‘I want to lose 20 pounds,'” Taylor said. “That's fine—but once the weight is gone, the motivation often disappears.”An identity-based goal asks a deeper question: What kind of person do I want to become?“When someone says, ‘I want to honor God by caring for the body He's given me,' everything changes,” Taylor said. “Now the goal isn't just a number—it's a lifestyle.”Identity-driven goals last because they're rooted in purpose, not pressure.Applying Identity to Financial ResolutionsTaylor said this approach is especially powerful when applied to financial goals.“Let's say someone wants to pay off $20,000 in debt,” he said. “That's a great goal—but it becomes far more meaningful when it's rooted in identity.”Instead of focusing solely on eliminating debt, Taylor encouraged believers to frame their financial goals around stewardship.“When someone says, ‘I want to be a wise steward so I can live with freedom and give generously,' the goal becomes formative,” he explained. “That identity continues shaping decisions long after the debt is gone.”According to Taylor, identity-based stewardship influences spending, saving, giving, and long-term financial faithfulness—not just one year's resolution.Scripture Shows That Change Starts in the HeartTaylor pointed out that this inward-first approach isn't a modern idea—it's woven throughout Scripture.“God has always been after our hearts, not just our habits,” Taylor said. “Israel had clear commands, but having the law wasn't enough. Their hearts were unchanged, so their lives were unchanged.”That's why God promised to give His people a new heart and a new spirit. Taylor noted that Jesus echoed this truth when He taught that a tree is known by its fruit—what we produce flows from who we are.“God isn't impressed by performance alone,” Taylor said. “He desires people who trust Him and live out of that trust.”The Holy Spirit Makes Lasting Change PossibleTaylor emphasized that true transformation is not self-generated—it's Spirit-empowered.“External rules can restrain behavior, but they can't renew desires,” he said. “The new heart God gives doesn't just help us try harder—it reorders what we love.”Under the new covenant, believers don't rely on their own strength to change. Instead, the Holy Spirit reshapes desires and produces fruit like self-control, patience, and faithfulness.“These qualities are called the fruit of the Spirit for a reason,” Taylor said. “They grow naturally as we remain rooted in Christ.”As the new year begins, Taylor encouraged believers to start with prayerful reflection rather than immediate goal-setting.“Ask, ‘Lord, where are You inviting growth in my life?'” he said. “Pay attention to holy dissatisfaction—the places where God is gently nudging you toward change.”Taylor also encouraged seeking wisdom from Scripture and trusted believers, noting that identity is not something we invent, but something God forms in us.“The goal is alignment,” he said. “Not creating a new identity, but embracing the one God is already shaping through His Spirit.”Let Goals Flow from IdentityOnce identity is clear, Taylor said goals become expressions—not endpoints.“If you want to be a faithful steward, build practices that reflect that,” he said. “Budget, automate savings, grow in generosity. If you want to be healthier, choose routines that align with that identity.”Taylor emphasized the value of structure and measurable goals, noting that tools such as progress tracking and target-setting drive accountability. But he stressed that numbers should never become the foundation of change.“Goals can be reached. Circumstances can shift,” Taylor said. “Identity is what lasts.” In closing, Taylor offered a simple but powerful encouragement.“Start small. Trust the Holy Spirit. Focus on faithfulness, not perfection,” he said. “You're not pursuing change alone. The God who calls you to transformation walks with you and delights in your growth.”When resolutions flow from who God is shaping us to be, they don't just last for a year—they shape us for a lifetime.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I took out a Parent PLUS loan for my son years ago, and after falling behind, the balance has grown to about $20,000. I'm a few years from retirement and can't afford to carry this debt into retirement. Should I tap my 401(k), even with penalties, or reduce my contributions—while keeping my employer match—and use that money to pay the loan down? I haven't qualified for forgiveness or income-driven repayment and need direction.My husband and I are 40 and 42, debt-free, and paid cash for our home and our kids' college. We have $140,000 in savings, including a $40,000 emergency fund, and want to invest the remaining $100,000. We're both self-employed and don't have employer retirement plans. What's the best way to invest this money?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Student loans aren't just a financial obligation — they're a moving target. Rules shift, repayment plans evolve, forgiveness programs get redefined, and big deadlines are on the horizon. To help make sense of it all, Melissa Joy, CFP®, sits down with student loan expert David Gourley, founder of K-12 Planning, to break down the latest changes and what they mean for borrowers today.David brings deep expertise from years of helping educators, public service professionals, and families navigate the student loan maze. Together, Melissa and David walk through what's stable, what's shifting, and what borrowers need to pay attention to right now — especially as 2026 brings some of the biggest changes we've seen in years.They explore why Public Service Loan Forgiveness remains intact (despite the headlines), the critical steps Parent PLUS borrowers must take before federal doors close, and how the upcoming Repayment Assistance Program (RAP) could reshape long-term planning for millions. David also shares the little-known strategies around tax filing, repayment timing, and consolidation that can dramatically change someone's loan trajectory.Highlights include:Why PSLF is not going away — and who still qualifiesHow adjunct professors can use a multiplier to qualify as full-timeThe crucial July 1, 2026 deadline for Parent PLUS consolidationWhat RAP is, how it compares to IBR, and why timing matters for borrowersHow long-term forgiveness works (20, 25, or 30 years) — and when it may be taxableHow filing taxes married filing separately can significantly reduce paymentsThe risks of relying on lower payments when interest continues to growWhat changes to borrowing limits mean for grad students and parentsWhen refinancing to a private loan may actually make senseHow to plan ahead when student loan rules continue to evolveIf you're navigating repayment, planning for forgiveness, or preparing to send a child to college, this conversation offers clarity in a landscape that rarely stands still. Melissa and David bring the context, strategy, and grounded perspective borrowers need to make confident decisions — today and in the years ahead.The previous presentation by PEARL PLANNING was intended for general information purposes only. No portion of the presentation serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from PEARL PLANNING or any other investment professional of your choosing. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, or any non-investment related or planning services, discussion or content, will be profitable, be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. Neither PEARL PLANNING's investment adviser registration status, nor any amount of prior experience or success, should be construed that a certain level of results or satisfaction will be achieved if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. PEARL PLANNING is neither a law firm nor accounting firm, and no portion of its services should be construed as legal or accounting advice. No portion of the video content should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if PEARL PLANNING is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. A copy of PEARL PLANNING's current written disclosure Brochure discussing our advisory services and fees is available upon request or at https:...

Listen in as I sit down with my good friend and one of the sharpest legal minds in the student loan world, Stanley Tate. We walk through the latest PSLF battles, what the SAVE-forbearance mess really means for your timeline, and how the coming transition to RAP and old-school IBR could reshape repayment for millions of borrowers. We also get into Parent PLUS landmines, future loan caps, and what all of this means for the next generation of borrowers. You'll learn where the pitfalls are, how to protect yourself, and why most borrowers still have more options than they think. Key moments: (05:07) How worried should you be about the new PSLF rules (09:20) The weighted-average credit confusion after consolidation (16:32) The risk of choosing between federal and private student loans is quite high (24:28) SAVE forbearance, recertification delays, and the Parent PLUS trap (43:47) What we're watching in negotiated rulemaking and RAP vs. IBR Resource mentioned: Stanley Tate's YouTube channel   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts  Subscribe to the newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!  

The AFT lawsuit settlement with the Department of Education is one of the biggest updates in months for borrowers on income-driven repayment. You'll learn how this settlement unfreezes stalled forgiveness applications, who's protected under the new rules, and the key deadlines you can't afford to miss. I also explain why the 2026 "tax bomb" is back and what you can do now to prepare for it. Key moments: (00:57) What the AFT lawsuit forced the Department of Ed to fix (02:43) How PAYE and IBR borrowers can finally get forgiveness processed (05:57) The 2026 tax bomb: what's coming and how to plan for it (07:02) The urgent deadline for Parent PLUS borrowers before July 2026 (13:27) Upcoming rule changes that could reshape repayment options Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts Subscribe to the newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try our free student loan calculator Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated Book your custom student loan plan Get profession-specific financial planning Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!

As a college planning expert, Jack Wang breaks down major changes coming to college financial aid under the new “big, beautiful bill.” Jack explains how new borrowing limits for parents and graduate students could upend traditional funding strategies and push more families toward the private loan market. He shares insights on how colleges decide who gets aid—revealing the “moneyball” game of enrollment management—and why being wanted by a school matters more than just being accepted. Jack offers practical advice on how families can spend less on college by targeting schools that align with their financial and academic profiles.  We discuss...  Jack Wang explains how his personal experience navigating college costs during a divorce inspired him to become an expert in college financial aid planning. He discusses the new “big, beautiful bill,” which introduces sweeping changes to college funding and borrowing rules beginning in 2026. Parent PLUS loans will soon be limited to $20,000 per year and $65,000 total, ending the previous system of virtually unlimited borrowing. Many families focus on helping their child get accepted into college without understanding how they will actually afford it afterward. Jack encourages families to prioritize schools that offer the most generous financial aid rather than chasing prestige or name recognition. He clarifies that financial aid isn't just for low-income families—colleges often give significant aid to higher-income households if the student fits their goals. Colleges operate like businesses using “enrollment management,” a strategy to attract certain types of students who align with institutional priorities. Jack explains that being wanted by a college often leads to larger scholarships than simply being accepted. Signs a school may want your student include launching new majors, building new facilities, or heavily recruiting from your region. Families should be cautious about applying to overcrowded majors like business, which typically receive less financial aid because demand is already high. Understanding each college's scholarship policies and true costs upfront helps families make smarter, more affordable decisions. Jack stresses that financial planning should begin as early as freshman year of high school, since aid decisions rely on sophomore-year tax data. Visiting campuses and showing consistent interest can improve a student's appeal and increase their chances of receiving aid. He concludes that families will either spend the time planning early or spend far more money later if they fail to prepare. Today's Panelists: Kirk Chisholm | Innovative Wealth Phil Weiss | Apprise Wealth Management Douglas Heagren | Mergent College Advisors Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moneytreepodcast Follow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/money-tree-investing-podcast Follow on Twitter/X: https://x.com/MTIPodcast For more information, visit the show notes at https://moneytreepodcast.com/college-planning-strategies-756 

In this episode, Rory speaks with Alex Bottom, CEO of Finology, and Ryan Galiotto, CFP®, CSLP®, founder of the Student Loan Help Network, about how advisors and CPAs can prepare for the sweeping changes coming to student loan planning. They discuss the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and how it will reshape repayment plans, extend terms, and impose new borrowing caps beginning in 2026. Alex explains how tax filing status and forgiveness rules can significantly impact repayment and why understanding these nuances is critical for CPAs. Ryan highlights the growing number of retirees carrying Parent PLUS loans and how this generational shift is redefining financial priorities for families. Together, they outline why student loan planning is moving from niche to mainstream and how practitioners can integrate it as a value-added service. Are you ready to help clients navigate the new repayment landscape? Want to know how to turn student loan guidance into an opportunity for deeper client relationships? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this important conversation with Alex Bottom and Ryan Galiotto.

This week on The Pete the Planner Show, we're tackling one of the toughest money dilemmas families face today: when helping your adult children turns into hurting yourself. A listener writes in about her 31-year-old daughter who still lives at home, contributes nothing financially, and has become the center of a tug-of-war between supportive love and enabling behavior. Pete, Kristen, and Damian unpack the concept of financial enmeshment—those blurred parent/child roles where support becomes indefinite, boundaries vanish, and retirement plans quietly suffer. Why is this happening more than ever? Sky-high housing costs, student debt, and the return of loan payments all play a role, but so do fear, guilt, and a desire to shield kids from failure. We'll explore the emotional conflict between partners who disagree on rules, the hidden cost of Parent PLUS loans, and why “support without structure is just deferred conflict.” Then, we'll lay out practical tools for parents: aligning as a couple, having honest conversations with adult kids, and creating a phased transition plan that respects both love and limits. If you've ever wondered where generosity ends and enabling begins, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

#622: #622: The headlines said America added 147,000 jobs in June. The reality? Private companies actually cut 33,000 positions. Grad students just lost access to unlimited borrowing. Parent PLUS loans now cap at $65,000. And tariffs are about to jump as high as 70 percent. Everything is changing at once — taxes, tariffs, student loans, and immigration policy. And data from the University of Michigan says that consumers feel more pessimistic than they did six months ago. Welcome to the 4th of July First Friday episode. On America's 249th birthday, we unpack these economic stories. Timestamps: Note: Timestamps will vary on individual listening devices based on dynamic advertising run times. The provided timestamps are approximate and may be several minutes off due to changing ad lengths. (0:00) Introduction (1:19) Historical trivia about the Declaration of Independence (2:28) Three presidents died on July 4th — statistical improbability explained (4:24) Trump signs domestic policy bill extending 2017 tax cuts (6:13) Student loan changes — borrowing caps and repayment plan eliminations (8:53) Tariff pause expires July 9th, new rates announced (12:00) Original tariff rates and Lesotho example breakdown (16:26) June jobs report headlines versus private sector reality (22:54) ADP reports private job losses while government hiring grows (26:46) Consumer confidence drops 18 percent since December (30:59) Inflation expectations versus actual 2.4 percent rate (34:19) Fed takes wait-and-see approach amid policy uncertainty (36:58) Labor market stagnation mirrors Federal Reserve strategy For more information, visit the show notes at https://affordanything.com/episode622 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices