Informed Investor: Beware of private loans when refinancing to consolidate student loan debt

The cost of a college education has skyrocketed in recent years. With this increasing cost, there has been an explosion in student loan debt, which now ranks behind mortgage debt as the largest consumer debt. This week’s column discusses what student loan borrowers should and should not do with respect to consolidating their federal government-sponsored and privately sponsored loans. View More

FEEA scholarship applications open Jan. 1

The Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund announced that its 2016-17 scholarship season will open Jan 1. View More

Do student loan payments come with any strings attached?Apr 06, 2014

To receive student loan repayment benefits, you would have to sign a service agreement to remain in the service of the agency for at least three years. View More

Are there any federal tax breaks available related to college savings?Feb 11, 2015

Depending on your modified adjusted gross income, you may be eligible for: The American Opportunity Tax Credit of the first 100 percent of $2,000 of qualified higher education expenses, plus 25 percent of the next $2,000 of qualified expenses for the first four years. View More

Should college savings funds be in my name or in my children’s names?May 07, 2014

Are any other investments specifically advantageous for college savings?May 07, 2014

What is a qualified tuition program?May 07, 2014

Will savings impact my child’s eligibility for need-based financial aid?May 07, 2014

What are some sources of merit-based aid?May 07, 2014

Are there any scholarship programs especially for federal employees and their families?May 07, 2014

Are scholarships tax-free?May 07, 2014

Should I borrow for college? May 07, 2014

What types of federal loans might be available?May 07, 2014

What are the advantages of federal loans over others? May 07, 2014

What kind of investment vehicles should college savings be in?May 01, 2014

Should my priority for savings be my own retirement or my children’s college education?May 01, 2014

How can I project the total cost attending a college?May 01, 2014