Student Loan Planner

The first week of a new administration always brings a flurry of activity, but despite a wave of executive orders, the Trump administration hasn’t touched student loans… yet. What does this mean for borrowers? Let’s unpack the silence and uncover what this lack of immediate action says about the administration’s priorities. If you’re curious about policy changes or want to stay ahead of the curve, we break it down in plain terms to help you understand what’s happening — and what could be next. Key moments: (01:42) Promises made under the Biden administration might not carry over in a Trump administration (06:59) Borrowers could be asked to restart payments soon, potentially as early as this spring (08:27) Should you get an extension to file your tax return? (10:52) The big legislative focus is what’s happening with the reconciliation bill (16:35) We’re still waiting for rulings from the 8th Circuit Court. Will they act, or will Trump’s team make the call? Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 age-old question of renting versus buying takes center stage in this episode as we explore whether the American dream of homeownership lives up to the hype. Jake Courtney, CFP®, CSLP®, a financial planner with the SLP Wealth dental team, joins us for a lively debate as we dig into the financial and lifestyle factors that go into this decision, bust some common myths, and help you weigh what’s right for your situation. In the end, we’ll help you decide if buying a home is truly all it’s cracked up to be. Key moments: (07:07) The costs of homeownership go beyond the mortgage and include “phantom” expenses you might not expect (13:30) Using the price-to-rent ratio to decide if buying or renting is the smarter financial move (17:08) Why renting isn’t always “throwing money away” — key factors to consider before deciding (26:21) Renting might be your best option if you’ve just bought a business or can’t yet qualify for a mortgage Links mentioned: Rent vs. Buy Calculator for Residency/Fellowship Financially Free Dentists podcast Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

With a new Trump administration taking office, the next 100 days could shape the future of student loans in America. We’re breaking down what we’re watching and what these potential changes could mean for borrowers. Key moments: (01:06) The GOP’s budget reconciliation bill and how it could impact borrowers nationwide (03:46) A closer look at the proposal to end time-based forgiveness and require full repayment of principal plus interest (05:03) How student loans factor into the GOP’s proposed spending cuts and what might happen next (10:16) Will the Biden administration’s IDR account adjustments survive under GOP leadership? Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

What’s next for student loan borrowers in a world of shifting repayment plans and interest rates? Financial planner Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, joins us to break down the potential repeal of the SAVE plan and how it could reshape repayment strategies. We explore why PAYE or IBR might take center stage, when refinancing could make sense, and why it’s always a case-by-case decision. If you’re PSLF-eligible or unsure how these changes impact your financial future, this episode has the answers you need. Key moments: (01:51) PAYE might be the go-to repayment plan if SAVE is repealed (and we think it will be) (07:04) Refinancing your loans could make sense, but it isn’t for everyone (16:08) The trade-offs of refinancing, including losing federal protections (22:30) Why refinancing is a no-go if you’re PSLF-eligible Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 you’ve been wondering how to level up your finances in 2025, we’ve got you covered. Discover our top 10 strategies to help grow your wealth, including smart investment moves, must-know insurance tips, and how to recession-proof your finances without losing sleep. But it’s not just about numbers. We’ll talk about how mental health and money intersect, share some personal stories, and give you real-world advice you can use. If growing your wealth and simplifying your financial life are on your radar for 2025, this episode is a must-listen. Key moments: (04:17) Tracking your spending reveals the true story of your finances (10:20) Protect your mental health by embracing where you are, without the pressure to be more (16:50) Avoid costly tax mistakes by understanding cost basis (23:43) Plan for the worst while appreciating the best (balancing gratitude with preparation) (32:47) Understanding your finances is the first step to building a life with purpose and balance Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

What’s the real difference between being a 1099 contractor and a W2 employee? And who actually decides which one you are — your employer or state law? Financial planner Kathleen Boyd, CFP®, CSLP®, CBDA, joins us to unpack the distinctions between these classifications and what they mean for your career, finances, and legal obligations. You’ll learn the IRS guidelines that determine your status, the pros and cons of each, and how being 1099 or W-2 impacts your retirement savings, tax planning, and benefits like Social Security and Medicare. Plus, we’ll discuss unique situations like earning both W-2 and 1099 income from locum tenens work. Key moments: (04:43) Key differences between 1099 contractor income and W-2 employee income (11:16) How IRS rules determine if you’re a 1099 contractor or should be classified as W-2 (17:21) The pros and cons of 1099 vs. W-2 status and how they impact your taxes, retirement, and benefits (30:56) What happens when you earn both W-2 and 1099 income as a locum tenens worker? Link mentioned: Worker Classification 101: employee or independent contractor

We’ll look ahead at major changes in student loan repayments under the new Trump administration, with potential IDR recertification deadlines and implications of the 8th Circuit's decisions. Plus, I’ll share a personal story about an investment mistake that cost me thousands and tips so that it doesn’t happen to you. Key moments: (01:28) Student loan collections are restarting: what it means for your credit and forbearance (03:49) What cost basis is (and a personal story about how ignoring it cost me thousands) (09:49) Are AUM fees worth it? Breaking down the math (15:06) Understanding technical investing strategies can give you an edge in wealth-building Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

Is it possible to buy a home without a credit score? We’re joined by special guest Steve Stewart, podcast editor, who shares how he moved his family to Colorado and secured a mortgage without a traditional credit score. Steve, who hasn’t opened a credit account since 2008, reveals tools and strategies for documenting payment history, navigating homeownership as a single-income household, and overcoming challenges as a self-employed borrower. We also discuss why the credit scoring system prioritizes debt, how professionals with unconventional financial profiles can still secure a mortgage, and how to handle tax reporting, 1099 forms, and business structuring for freelancers and entrepreneurs. Key moments: (05:29) The myth that a credit card is safer than a debit card (09:19) Strategies to get a mortgage without a traditional credit score or manual underwriting (21:36) What living without credit means for missing out on card perks (27:13) Simplifying 1099 income reporting and third-party processor confusion Links mentioned: eCredable Experian Boost Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 loan repayment plans are in chaos. From the PAYE and ICR confusion to the ongoing servicer challenges, borrowers face an overwhelming mess. We break down what’s happening, what changes might be coming, and how to stay ahead in an unpredictable system. On the investing side, we’re tackling the dominance of U.S. stocks since 2008, asking whether their reign is coming to an end. We’ll explore the rise of cryptocurrencies, the risks of betting too heavily on any one market, and why diversification remains critical to long-term financial success. Key moments: (01:23) How reopening the ICR plan lets high-income borrowers qualify for forgiveness and PSLF (03:16) U.S. stocks have outperformed international markets by 3.5x since 2008 (07:23) Bitcoin’s wild swings, why it mirrors U.S. stocks but amplifies market moves (11:45) Why investors tend to chase risky stocks and overlook safer opportunities (15:40) The importance of a diversified portfolio for professionals, no matter your student loan debt (16:49) Key investment strategies to prioritize as 2025 approaches Links mentioned: Department of Education Announces Borrowers Can Now Apply for Additional Income-Driven Repayment Plans WSJ: Young Men Are Making Risky Bets on Crypto and Politics—and Raking It In Right Now Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 clock is ticking on the double consolidation loophole for Parent PLUS Loans, which closes in July 2025. Learn what this change means, why borrowers must act quickly, and how to make the most of the remaining time. We’ll tackle the big questions: Should you file taxes jointly or separately? How do Medicare penalties and student loan repayments overlap? And what strategies can help you maximize income-driven repayment (IDR) plans before the loophole disappears? Jared Costigan, CFP®, CSLP®, a financial planner with the SLP Wealth team, shares expert advice on preserving retirement savings, aligning Social Security with loan repayment, and leveraging Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Key moments: (05:16) Parent PLUS debt surged 63% from 2015 to 2022 as the cost of college climbs (9:19) The double consolidation loophole could save you from paying 20% of your retirement income (19:38) Who benefits most from a double consolidation? Borrowers with balances nearing or exceeding their income (27:56) Income planning ties Social Security and loans to retirement timing — don’t overlook it (37:32) Filing taxes separately can lower loan payments but may raise Medicare costs Links mentioned: Financially Free Physicians podcast Department of Education Parent PLUS Loans Parent PLUS Double Consolidation Loophole Guide for 2025 Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

This episode is packed with answers to listener questions about student loans. From Public Service Loan Forgiveness rules to spousal consolidation loans, we’re covering real-life scenarios that borrowers face every day. Wondering how family size changes affect payments or what to make of new repayment plans? We’ve got you. Tune in for practical advice, expert tips, and answers to the questions you didn’t even know you had. Let’s get into it! Key moments: (04:07) Tackling spousal consolidation loan headaches and finding a way forward (06:44) Why claiming dependents can impact your loan forgiveness taxes (15:41) Nearing forgiveness? Here’s what to know about IBR qualification (18:37) Forbearance confusion: Does processing or administrative forbearance count for PSLF? Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 shocking murder of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO is a tragic story that highlights deeper issues within the health insurance industry — wealth, greed, inequality, and power dynamics — and raises important questions about the prioritization of profits over patient care. We’re taking a closer look at the broader implications of this event and its ties to the systemic challenges healthcare professionals already know too well. Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, joins us and shares a personal connection to the story. We explore the emotions and frustrations it brings up, especially for those working in a system often criticized for putting profit before people. Key moments: (04:35) Unpacking the growing anger toward health insurance companies (10:36) Insurance companies overriding physicians leads to worse outcomes for patients (13:00) A recap of what happened, the manifesto, and the controversial sympathy for the alleged shooter’s motives (21:07) Fear and frustration leave many wondering if change in healthcare is even possible Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 PSLF buyback program could be the key to reaching forgiveness faster, but there’s a catch. You must use exact language in your reconsideration request, or it won’t count. Without it, your request might be dismissed as just an inquiry — seriously. We break down everything you need to know about PSLF buyback, including the steps to get your application right the first time, how this program came to be, and why it’s still available despite the SAVE plan injunction. Plus, we'll touch on the importance of keeping an eye on refinancing rates and what to expect if policies shift under a new administration. If you’re worried about PSLF or wondering how things might change under a different political landscape, this episode has the answers to help calm your nerves. Key moments: (01:51) The exact steps and language needed to apply for PSLF buyback (05:32) How PSLF buyback could save borrowers a ton of money 07:34) Potential impacts if a Trump administration repeals PSLF buyback or the SAVE plan (11:02) How falling refinancing rates could create new opportunities for borrowers Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

Social media is overflowing with flashy trends and hyped-up advice, making it easy to feel like you’re missing out. From “get rich quick” schemes to so-called success shortcuts, the constant FOMO can lead to bad financial habits and second-guessing your decisions. We’re exposing the trends that claim to help but actually hold you back. Discover how harmful financial behaviors and misleading investment advice can keep you stuck — and learn how to avoid these traps. Tune in for practical tips to cut through the noise and focus on building real, sustainable financial success. Key moments: (01:39) Influencers say “do this,” but their success doesn’t mean it’ll work for you (10:07) Are you falling behind, or is social media making you feel that way? (22:47) Unqualified influencers sell dreams, but they rarely deliver real results (29:53) Hustle culture glamorizes nonstop work but keeps you from what really matters Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

Over the past four years, student loans have been at the center of some of the most dramatic changes we’ve ever seen — both good and bad. We’ll explore the Biden administration’s legislative and executive actions, such as making student loan forgiveness tax-free through the American Rescue Plan, the PSLF waiver, and the introduction of the SAVE plan. Along the way, we’ll unpack the political pressures Biden faced, comparisons to FDR, and the influence of key players like Senator Warren and Richard Cordray. In addition, we’ll examine the political ramifications and speculate about the future of student loan policies under a Republican-controlled government. Key moments: (06:13) Misrepresented loan repayments paved the way for executive actions (11:01) A once-in-a-generation opportunity to rewrite the social contract (17:57) Why Republicans saw an opening to sue over student loan cancellation (21:13) The SAVE plan’s billion-dollar promise — and why it was never realistic (26:08) Are plans in motion to roll back Biden’s student loan reforms? What we’re hearing Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

Roth IRAs are a fantastic tool for building tax-free retirement wealth, but they’re not without their pitfalls. Uncover common Roth IRA mistakes, like contributing too much, missing key deadlines, or triggering taxes you didn’t expect — and how to avoid them. Already made a misstep? Don’t worry. We’ll walk you through how to fix these mistakes, from recharacterizing contributions and correcting excess contributions to handling IRS notices. Key moments: (04:35) Why a Backdoor Roth IRA might be right for you (and the new 2025 phase-out limits) (10:01) The five steps to completing a Backdoor Roth IRA (16:32) Common Roth IRA mistakes and how to fix them (19:27) The Pro Rata Rule and its potential tax consequences (24:57) Strategies to avoid taxable conversions Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 you're counting down your final PSLF payments and feeling like you're losing your mind with all the uncertainty, this episode is for you. We'll tackle what's actually worth worrying about when you're close to forgiveness, explore strategies for navigating the final stretch, dig into the PSLF buyback situation, and cover what you need to know about potential new repayment plans and legislative changes on the horizon. Key moments: (01:19) Misinformation about applying for PSLF buyback: What’s real and what’s noise (08:31) Court rulings, tax changes, and what they mean for forgiveness programs (15:14) What to do while waiting for IBR application processing (16:07) New Republican proposal to reset student loan interest rates Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!

Stuck in holiday traffic? Make the most of your travel time with our curated collection of student loan resources perfect for your commute. We'll explore the latest Pay As You Earn (PAYE) rumors, tackle tricky PSLF payment count challenges, and share a simple yet effective tool to estimate your IDR forgiveness progress while we wait for the Department of Education’s much-anticipated tracker. Key moments: 02:41 New resources you’ll love: Podcasts for dentists, physicians, and veterinarians 05:36 How to pinpoint your payment count if you’re curious where you stand on forgiveness 14:11 Nearing 120 payments? Don’t miss this step-by-step guide we’ve been sharing with our clients 28:23 PAYE might be making a comeback: The pros, cons, and what it could mean for you Links mentioned: StudentAid.govhttps://studentaid.gov/app/api/nslds/payment-counter/summaryFinancially Free Dentists podcastFinancially Free Physicians podcast Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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 last few weeks have been a lot — election chaos, tensions running high, and now Thanksgiving is knocking on the door. If the thought of sitting at the table with family members who have very different opinions makes you cringe, you’re not alone. We've brainstormed tons of fun and unconventional methods to sidestep political tension, avoid unnecessary drama, and maybe even have a little fun. Plus, we'll explore the power of gratitude, the tactical use of distraction, and even a few spicy clap-back comebacks for when things get a bit too heated. Think of it as your guide to surviving the holidays without losing your cool (or your plate of pie). Key moments: (03:16) Turn the table into a stage with over-the-top campaign speeches for the best side dish (05:28) How to keep stressful conversations in check without drawing attention (13:05) Push boundaries with a bold clap-back (or stick to the nod-and-smile technique for a drama-free approach) (20:06) Two ways to handle conspiracy theories: a smooth exit or playful engagement (23:12) A low-key hack for escaping post-meal chaos while earning brownie points Turkey, Tension, and Dodging Drama Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow onApple Podcasts,SpotifyorAmazon MusicLeave an honest review onApple Podcasts newsletter Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans? Try ourfree student loan calculatorCheck out ourrefinancing bonuseswe negotiatedBook yourcustom student loan planGet 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!