Month: <span>November 2023</span>

Science & Environment

How to apply for student loan forgiveness – and…



The cost of colleges has increased over recent years in the United States and paying for fees through savings and investments is not as easy as it used to be.

As of this year, Americans now owe $1.77 trillion in federal and private student loan debt and while the Biden administration tried to decrease that amount, the Supreme Court issued a decision blocking the one-time student debt relief plan.

The three-part plan aimed to help working and middle-class families and included a loan forgiveness of up to $20,000.

It was set in place to address the “financial harms of the pandemic” and “provide borrowers with a smooth transition back to repayment.”

Here is everything you need to know about student loan forgiveness and what you might need to watch out for…

What plans are available and how is my monthly payment amount calculated as a repayment plan?

Federal Student Aid has said that in certain circumstances if a person has taken out student loans, these can be “forgiven”, “cancelled” and “discharged”. This basically means you may not need to pay some or even all of the loan.

There are currently four different income-driven repayment plans, as per the Federal Student Aid website – these are:

Saving A Valuable Education (SAVE) plan – formerly known as PAYE. This payment generally takes 10 per cent of your discretionary income.

Income-based Repayment (IBR) – for this payment it is generally 10 per cent of your discretionary income, but never more than the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan amount.

Pay As You Earn (PAYE) – The FSA says this is generally 10 per cent of your income if you’re a new borrower on or after 1 July 2014, but never more than the Standard Repayment Plan amount.

Generally, 15 per cent of your discretionary income if you’re not a new borrower on or after 1 July 2014.

Income-contingent Repayment loan (ICR) – The lesser of the following: 20 per cent of your discretionary income or what you would pay on a repayment plan with a fixed payment over the course of 12 years, adjusted according to your income.

“Under all four plans, any remaining loan balance is forgiven if your federal student loans aren’t fully repaid at the end of the repayment period,” the FSA says on its site.

The table below, provided by the Federal Student Aid website shows data comparing monthly amounts and repayment periods under each plan.

Everything you need to know about the payment plans

(Federal Student Aid )

Who qualifies for student loan forgiveness?

Each individual income-driven replayment (IDR) plan has its own set of further eligibility requirements that you’ll need to meet to qualify.

For, SAVE any borrower with qualifying student loans is eligible for this plan.

With PAYE and IBR, the estimated payment you make for either of these plans has to be less than what you would pay on the Standard Repayment Plan within a 10-year period.

But for PAYE, only loans given after 1 October 2011 are eligible.

And with ICR, just like SAVE, any federal student loan borrower is eligible for this plan. But this plan is the only income-driven repayment plan that accepts PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) loans made to students.

How do I apply?

The FSA recommends that you contact your loan servicer if you have any questions as this will help you decide whether one of these plans is right for you.

To apply for the right plan, you can fill in the form online or via paper format – which you can get from your loan servicer.

During the application process, you’ll be asked to provide income information that will be used to determine your eligibility for the PAYE or IBR plans and to calculate your monthly payment amount under all income-driven repayment plans.

Find out more about the IDR plan request here.

Is there a deadline for applications?

The application period for student loan forgiveness will close on 31 December 2023.

How to avoid student loan scams

Getting a bunch of texts, emails and calls about student loan forgiveness?

Scams come in different forms, so it’s best to take extra caution. Here are a few ways to spot a scam:

– Being asked for log-in information: the FSA and loan providers will never ask you for these details.

– Promises that are too good to be true: according to the FSA, most government forgiveness programs require years of qualifying payments and/or employment in certain fields before forgiving loans.

– Typos in texts, emails or other forms of communication.

– Unofficial addresses or phone numbers:remember, official emails from the FSA will only come from these emails:

noreply@studentaid.gov

noreply@debtrelief.studentaid.gov

ed.gov@public.govdelivery.com

And text messages from the FSA will only come from 227722 or 51592.

Science & Environment

Ronald Norman: Meet male breast cancer survivor who underwent…


Norman’s revelation came after a forceful hit to his nipple during a pickleball match

Ronald Norman, 76, wrote an op-ed where he shared his shock experience being diagnosed with male breast cancer.—Facebook@RonaldNorman
Ronald Norman, 76, wrote an op-ed where he shared his shock experience being diagnosed with male breast cancer.—Facebook@RonaldNorman

Retired college professor Ronald Norman found himself confronting an unexpected adversary when a routine game of pickleball led to the discovery of his breast cancer.

In a heartfelt op-ed for the San Diego Union-Tribune, the 76-year-old detailed his journey as one of the approximately one in 1,000 men affected by breast cancer. 

Norman’s revelation came after a forceful hit to his nipple during a pickleball match, an impact he described as one of the hardest he had ever experienced in over 12 years of playing the sport.

Despite initially dismissing the incident as a bruise, Norman noticed a lingering lump behind his nipple a few weeks later. Seeking medical advice, a nurse practitioner ordered a mammogram, which unveiled the shocking reality: male breast cancer. The diagnosis was later elevated to stage 2 to 3 after additional tests, revealing cancerous lymph nodes in his right armpit.

Norman chose to pursue an alternative and more natural treatment approach, witnessing the tumour shrink over four months. However, when the program concluded, the tumour persisted, leading to the inevitable decision for a mastectomy to remove his right breast and affected lymph nodes. This surgical intervention was followed by eight rounds of chemotherapy over 16 weeks and six weeks of daily radiation.

Throughout his challenging journey, Norman experienced support from family and friends, acknowledging their crucial role in his recovery. Despite some expected short-term side effects from chemotherapy, including a sore tongue, partial numbness in extremities, and hair loss, he viewed these sacrifices as a means to achieve long-term health.

Norman concluded his op-ed by advocating for men to conduct regular self-examinations, emphasising the importance of early detection. He urged men to seek medical attention if they discover any unusual lumps, underscoring that prompt action could be pivotal, even for a condition as rarely associated with men as breast cancer.

Science & Environment

This Multibagger Defence Stock Has Given over 2000% Return…


Curated By: Business Desk

Last Updated: November 28, 2023, 19:48 IST

Avantel Ltd shares have surged nearly 50% in the last three months.

Avantel Ltd shares have surged nearly 50% in the last three months.

If an investor had invested Rs 1 lakh in the shares of Avantel Limited six months ago, then today its value would have reached Rs 3,91,000.

The ‘Make in India’ initiative by the Central government has led to a recent surge in the value of numerous defence stocks. The shares that have gained pace also include those of Avantel Ltd, a defence sector company. The stock has been on a gaining spree since the last few days.

The multibagger defence stock closed 0.35% higher at Rs 129.05 apiece on BSE on Tuesday extending its rally for the third consecutive day.

Avantel Ltd. has been under radar due to the surge in stock price in the last few months. The stock has gained nearly 50% in the last three months and over 23% in the last one month. Shares of the company have surged more than 400% so far this year and over 340% in the last one year period.

Shares of the company have surged over 2000% in the last three years.

Last week, the company’s board approved bonus issuance of 16,21,79,720 equity shares at a value of Rs 2 apiece to eligible shareholders at a 2:1 ratio. The record for bonus issue was November 24. The shareholders will receive two new fully paid-up equity shares of Rs 2 each for every 1 existing equity share held by them.

The company has also issued a dividend 20 times since June 2001.

Avantel Ltd declared a dividend of Re 1 per share in the last 12 months. Adjusting for its bonuses, splits and dividends, the stock’s dividend yield at the current market price is 0.05%.

Six months ago, the price of this share was Rs 32.89 per piece. Now it has increased to Rs 130.90 apiece. If an investor had invested Rs 1 lakh in the shares of Avantel Limited six months ago, then today its value would be Rs 3,91,000. In this way, this money would have increased almost four times in just 6 months.

Science & Environment

Novak Djokovic on cusp of historic 23rd grand slam…




CNN
 — 

For years, the ‘Big Three’ of men’s tennis – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic – have hoovered up grand slams, each providing their own reasons to be crowned as the greatest men’s player of all time.

Now, with Federer retired and Nadal injured, Djokovic has an opportunity to stake his own claim in that unending debate and win a record 23rd grand slam title on Sunday at the French Open, surpassing the mark he currently holds with Nadal.

Standing in Djokovic’s way is Casper Ruud, who has now reached three of the last five grand slam finals, including last year’s final at Roland Garros where he was dismantled 6-3 6-3 6-0 by Nadal.

If Djokovic can win on Sunday, he will also return to the top of the world rankings and become the first male player to win each grand slam tournament at least three times. Such pressure, however, is familiar to the Serb, he said after his semifinal victory.

“History is always something that’s hovering over me, but I’m very happy to be in this position to write history of this sport,” he said, according to the ATP Tour. “I’m just thinking about winning the next match.

“Pressure is always on my shoulders, so it’s not going to be different. But it’s part of my sport, part of my life, all that I do. I think that having pressure is a privilege. But it’s a source of motivation, as well. Great motivation to play well and to reach Sunday.”

Novak Djokovic defeated Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinal.

It has been a relatively straightforward route to the final for Djokovic, as he has dropped just two sets – one against Karen Khachanov in the quarterfinals and one against the No. 1 seed Carlos Alcaraz in the semifinals.

That match against Alcaraz had been billed as a classic, but in the end, Djokovic coasted to victory after the young Spaniard suffered from cramp at the beginning of the third set, with the match finely poised at a set apiece.

The Serb has been imperious in grand slams during the last three years, a loss to Nadal at the French Open last year the only blemish at the majors in which he has been able to compete.

But lining up against such a dominant player is a familiar position for Ruud as he faces an opponent seeking to break or extend their record grand slam title total for the second consecutive year.

“Last year it was against Rafa, this year it’s against Novak, so what can you say? It’s two of the toughest players in history,” Ruud said after his semifinal victory, according to the Guardian. “I’ve got to be the underdog like today, playing without too many feelings, just try to enjoy.”

The 24-year-old Norwegian has never even won a set against Djokovic, losing all four of their matches, and that gulf ensures that he will walk onto court as the underdog, though he can now draw on the experience of two previous grand slam final appearances.

Casper Ruud was defeated by Nadal in last year's French Open final.

“It’s going to be tough, for sure,” Ruud said, according to the ATP Tour. “He’s playing for his 23rd. I’m playing for my first. So I’m going to just try to play without pressure and just try to enjoy the moment.

“I think that was my mentality last year (against Nadal) as well, and it didn’t go my way. Obviously, I would like to try to do better than last year. Let’s see if I have learned something from the two previous (major finals) that I played last year. It just feels great to be back.”

Despite coming into the tournament after a mixed start to the season, Ruud has found his form, winning against a top-10 player at a grand slam for the first time when he defeated Holger Rune in the quarterfinals, and dismantling Alexander Zverev in the semifinals.

That semifinal performance will galvanize Ruud ahead of the final, as he seeks to upset the odds and take a first grand slam title.

Science & Environment

Music Therapy: Here’s your guide to peace of mind,…




Music therapy stands out for its exceptional ability to reduce stress and manage anxiety

Science & Environment

57+ top travel accessories on sale for Cyber Monday


Cyber Monday is here and retailers are offering notable discounts on travel items, as well as other sales on kitchen, fitness and more.

We compiled the best deals on travel that we think you’ll want to know about. We’ll continue to update you about new savings opportunities throughout the next few days. We also compiled a list of Cyber Monday bestsellers so you can see what other NBC Select readers are shopping for during the sale event.

SKIP AHEAD Best Cyber Monday travel deals | Best Cyber Monday travel sales

Best Cyber Monday travel deals 2023

All of our recommendations below are based on our previous coverage and reporting. We also included a handful of products we’ve tried, including NBC Select Wellness Award, Pet Award, Bed & Bath Award and Giftable Tech award winners. We’re running deals through price trackers like CamelCamelCamel to ensure each product is either at its lowest price ever or its lowest price in at least three months.

Best Cyber Monday travel luggage deals

Beis The Weekender

5-star average rating from 12,407 reviews on Beis

I’ve owned The Weekender for years, and it’s still my go-to luggage for flying, driving and everything in between. I love storing my toiletries and/or shoes in the removable bottom compartment and appreciate the space in the main compartment for my laptop, clothes and more. Plus, the trolley pass-through on the back makes navigating airports with a carry-on easier.

Calpak Evry Starter Bundle

5-star average rating from 201 reviews on Calpak

We’re big fans of Calpak luggage sets, and this one comes with a carry-on, a large check-in suitcase, a five-piece packing cube set and a luggage tag. Both luggage pieces have TSA-approved locks and 360-degree spinner wheels for easier travel, according to the brand.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Diamond Tower Collection

4.4-star average rating from 1,161 reviews on Amazon

This three-piece set includes a 20-inch, 24-inch and 28-inch suitcase, all of which come with a push-button retractable handle and spinner wheels for effortless maneuvering. According to the brand, all three interiors are lined with tear-resistant fabric and several organization pockets and panels.

Away The Carry On

4.7-star average rating from 4,917 reviews on Away

We consider this the best carry-on luggage, thanks partly to its 360-degree spinner wheels and TSA-approved combination lock that make navigating the airport easier. There are also multiple easy-grip handles, a durable hard shell and a laundry bag for stowing away dirty clothes, says Away. 

Ben Sherman Nottingham Lightweight Hardside Set

4.4-star average rating from 2,613 reviews on Amazon

This three-piece set includes rolling suitcases in multiple sizes with a stylish textured exterior. Each one is also equipped with corner guards and tear-resistant interiors to extend use, according to the brand.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Two-Piece Bundle

4.4-star average rating from 2,712 reviews on Amazon

This bundle includes a wheeled carry-on suitcase and matching backpack with built-in laptop storage. For those who want to travel in style, the quilted chevron exterior will turn heads while shielding your essentials from the elements, says the brand. 

Suitour Hardshell Suitcase Set

4.5-star average rating from 559 reviews at Walmart

This three-piece set – which includes 20-, 24- and 28-inch suitcases – comes in multiple bold colors, so you can easily spot your luggage at the airport. All three pieces come with 360-degree rotating wheels, top and side handles for easy lifting and a hardshell exterior to prevent scratches, according to the brand.


American Tourister Stratum XLT Expandable Hardside Luggage

4.5-star average rating from 6,167 reviews on Amazon

This suitcase, most ideal for checking and not carrying onto a flight, opens like a book to reveal a spacious interior with a mesh divider and cross straps, according to the brand. American Tourister says it can also expand to increase packing capacity, and comes with top and side handles. There’s also 360-degree spinner wheels and a multi-stage aluminum pull handle to ease transport.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Madison Square Travel Two-Piece Set


4.5-star average rating from 221 reviews at Nordstrom Rack

This chic, chevron-textured bundle includes a 22-inch spinner wheel suitcase and a matching spacious tote. The tote, according to Kenneth Cole Reaction, has multiple storage compartments and a strap for when you want it attached to the suitcase for easier transport through busy spaces.

Herschel Supply Co. Novel Duffle Eco

This eco-friendly duffle bag is made entirely with recycled fabric and materials, according to Herschel Supply Co. The bag also has a cleverly placed shoe compartment, supportive handles and a removable shoulder strap, says the brand. 

Wild One Everyday Carrier

4.3-star average rating from 90 reviews at Wild One

If you’re traveling with a canine companion, Shari Uyehara, NBC Select manager of editorial operations, loves the stability of this NBC Select Pet Award winner. “I love that [my dog] Loki’s weight remains balanced in the carrier, but he still has room to move around,” she says. According to the brand, it also comes with a machine-washable quilted mat and multiple pockets for small essentials. 

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

5-star average rating from 154 reviews on Paravel

If you need a spacious bag that is easy to store, this one is foldable and made of ultra-lightweight, water-resistant nylon, according to the brand. It also has a trolley sleeve and barely-there pouch that the bag can be stored into, says Paravel.

Best Cyber Monday travel backpack deals

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Backpack

4.5-star average rating from 37,094 reviews on Amazon

In our guide to the best Amazon travel accessories, Susan Henkel, founder of Ola Travel & Tours, says she prefers a sling bag because it allows her to be nimble instead of weighed down. She recommends this crossbody for its adjustable shoulder strap, multi-pocket storage and abundance of color options.

Rains Mini Reflective Waterproof Backpack

5-star average rating from 25 reviews on Rains

This sleek and spacious backpack is a downscaled version of the brand’s original waterproof backpack but just as effective, thanks to a sizeable flap and carabiner closure that makes it easier to access your belongings. There’s also an internal pocket that can hold most laptops up to 15 inches, as well as a main compartment and concealed external pocket for phones, according to the brand.

Best Cyber Monday travel organizers deals

Fyy Electronics Organizer

4.5-star average rating from 18,259 reviews on Amazon

This storage case is just 3.2 ounces, which means you can pack away electronics without the fear of additional weight. There are two layers of space which include multiple sized pockets and mesh lining to make locating your essentials easier, according to the brand. Plus, it’s waterproof for added protection against the elements, says Fyy.

Gemice Travel Bottles

4.5-star average rating from 11,490 reviews on Amazon

Lowest price ever

These TSA-approved travel bottles, which come in a set of four, are some of our favorite travel accessories on Amazon. They can hold up to 3 ounces of shampoo, conditioner, body wash or any other liquids you plan to pack in your carry-on. The bottles are also made of BPA-free, food-grade silicone so you can take foods like sauce and salad dressing, according to the brand.

Veken 8-Set Packing Cubes

4.7-star average rating from 11,297 reviews on Amazon

An Amazon bestseller, this set includes an XL cube, a large cube, a medium cube and a small cube, all of which can be used to store a variety of essentials, including apparel, according to the brand. There’s also a laundry bag for dirty clothes, a shoe bag, a toiletry bag and an accessories bag. The entire set, according to Veken, is also made with water-resistant material, breathable mesh and easy-pull zippers.

Best Cyber Monday travel wellness deals

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

4.1-star average rating from 71,904 reviews on Amazon

These durable earplugs, a Select Wellness Award winner, are as versatile as they are stylish, with a round shape that sits comfortably in the ear to help you focus while studying, to get better sleep or to block out surrounding noise while traveling. They also come with four sizes of silicone ear tips (x-small to large) and a carry case.

Theragun Mini

4.8-star average rating from 5,864 reviews on Amazon

Tuck this Select Wellness Award winner into your pocket or suitcase to target aches and pains on the go. With three different speeds, ultra-quiet sound insulation and an ergonomic base, you can expect Theragun’s deep-penetrating and massage-like technology without sacrificing portability, according to the brand.

EverSnug Travel Blanket + Pillow

4.7-star average rating from 5,652 reviews on Amazon

This lightweight, all-season set is perfect for on the go coziness, according to the brand. The fabric is made with microfleece yarns that feel ultra-soft to the touch and the blanket is big enough to share if needed (65 inches long and 40 inches wide), says EverSnug. Plus, the carrying case comes with a luggage sleeve so you can easily attach it to your suitcase.

Pro Compression Marathon Socks

An NBC Select Wellness Award winner, these compression socks are made from nylon and lycra spandex, which are sweat-wicking materials. They’re also comfortable to wear with and without shoes, according to Select editors.

WWDoll KN95 Masks

4.5-star average rating from 72,945 reviews on Amazon

This pack is included in our guide to the best KN95 masks because it’s on the FDA’s EAU (emergency use authorization) list, has multiple layers and blocks more than 95% particles, according to the brand. It also has ear loops and an adjustable nose bridge for a more comfortable fit, says WWDoll.

Patchology FlashMasque Hydrate 5-Minute Sheet Masks (4-Pack)

4.7-star average rating from 295 reviews on Amazon

If your skin is prone to dryness while traveling, sheet masks are best used for hydration, according to our experts. Patchology’s bestselling Hydrate sheet masks, also available in a two-pack or as a single, are infused with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to reinvigorate the skin in just five minutes, according to the brand. Once removed, the remaining serum can be massaged into the skin, says Patchology.

Best Cyber Monday travel tech deals

Anker Nano Power Bank with Built-in Lightning Connector

4.3-star average rating from 1,762 reviews on Amazon

Whether you’re gifting a traveler or treating yourself, this Select Giftable Tech Award winner plugs into any lightning port on most Apple devices, according to the brand. There’s also a USB-C version for people with newer iPhone models.

Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

4.5-star average rating from 15,575 reviews on Amazon

This travel-friendly accessory allows you to go hands-free while viewing sports games, movies and other media on a flight. Simply clip the phone holder onto the airplane tray table and mount your phone — the dual joints come with 360-degree rotation so you can orient the phone vertically or horizontally, according to the brand.

JBL Clip 4

4.8-star average rating from 25,707 reviews on Amazon

For the person who loves listening to music on the go, this Giftable Tech Award winner comes with up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, says JBL. Its built-in carabiner also lets you clip the portable speaker onto virtually anything — from backpacks to tripods to shower curtain rods, according to the brand.

Best Cyber Monday travel mug deals

Yeti Rambler Stackable Pint

4.7-star average rating from 3,329 reviews at Yeti

This 16-ounce reusable tumbler is vacuum insulated to keep drinks hot or chilled for hours, as well as dishwasher-safe, according to Yeti. The pint-sized vessels are also stackable when you remove the included lid, so they’re great to take multiple on the go and easy to store at home.

Fire Belly Stop-Infusion Travel Mug


Designed with tea drinkers in mind, this travel mug has double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your drink hot for hours, according to Fire Belly. There’s also a tapered lip design for even flow as you sip, as well as an inner press where you can add and infuse the tea leaves of your choice, says the brand. This travel mug isn’t dishwasher-safe, but it can be easily disassembled for hand washing, according to Fire Belly.

Best Cyber Monday travel sales 2023

Here are the best Cyber Monday travel sales that we think you’ll want to know about. 

  1. Calpak: Up to 60% off sitewide
  2. Diggs: 25% off sitewide with code BF25
  3. Cabeau: 25% off sitewide
  4. Beis: 25% off sitewide
  5. Tumi: 30% off online exclusives
  6. Herschel Supply Co.: Up to 50% off
  7. Osprey: Up to 40% off
  8. Lo & Sons: Up to 70% off
  9. Roam: 25% off all luggage
  10. Monos: Up to 40% off with code CYBERWEEK
  11. Mark & Graham: Up to 70% off + an extra 30% off clearance with code MERRY
  12. Dagne Dover: 25% off sitewide
  13. Away: 20% off all suitcases
  14. Samsonite: 30% off + extra 10% off sitewide
  15. Paravel: Up to 40% off sitewide
  16. Hydro Flask: 25% off limited edition + online exclusive items
  17. July: Bundle items and save up to 20%
  18. Trtl: Up to 40% off + free gifts 
  19. Stasher: 25% off sitewide + 30% off sale items
  20. Twelve South: Up to 50% off
  21. REI: Up to 50% off select brands and items
  22. Cadence: 25% off sitewide with code BESTGIFT25
  23. Bellroy: Take up to $100 off your purchase sitewide
  24. Bagsmart: Up to 40% off sitewide
  25. Nike: Up to 60% off accessories and equipment
  26. Timbuk2: Up to 40% off
  27. eBags: 60% off backpacks and other travel essentials
  28. Rothy’s: Up to 30% off sitewide, including bags and accessories
  29. Baboon to the Moon: 25% off everything
  30. Cotopaxi: Up to 50% off select styles
  31. Travelpro: Up to 50% off sitewide
  32. Adidas: Up to 30% off backpacks
  33. Briggs & Riley: Up to 30% off select styles
  34. Fellow: 20% off sitewide

When is Cyber Monday 2023?

Cyber Monday takes place every year the Monday after Thanksgiving. Cyber Monday 2023 falls on Nov. 27. But Black Friday and Cyber Monday are no longer just 24-hour events, experts say. They’re morphed into weeks of doorbuster deals, and some early sales start in October or November. Throughout the next few days, we’ll continue updating you about new savings opportunities, as well as tips about what to buy during the event and what you may want to wait on purchasing.

Why trust Select?

Nikki Brown is an SEO Editor for Select who has covered deals and sales for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. To round up the best Cyber Monday travel deals, she found discounted products either at their lowest price ever or their lowest price in three months.

Science & Environment

How to apply for student loan forgiveness – and…



The cost of colleges has increased over recent years in the United States and paying for fees through savings and investments is not as easy as it used to be.

As of this year, Americans now owe $1.77 trillion in federal and private student loan debt and while the Biden administration tried to decrease that amount, the Supreme Court issued a decision blocking the one-time student debt relief plan.

The three-part plan aimed to help working and middle-class families and included a loan forgiveness of up to $20,000.

It was set in place to address the “financial harms of the pandemic” and “provide borrowers with a smooth transition back to repayment.”

Here is everything you need to know about student loan forgiveness and what you might need to watch out for…

What plans are available and how is my monthly payment amount calculated as a repayment plan?

Federal Student Aid has said that in certain circumstances if a person has taken out student loans, these can be “forgiven”, “cancelled” and “discharged”. This basically means you may not need to pay some or even all of the loan.

There are currently four different income-driven repayment plans, as per the Federal Student Aid website – these are:

Saving A Valuable Education (SAVE) plan – formerly known as PAYE. This payment generally takes 10 per cent of your discretionary income.

Income-based Repayment (IBR) – for this payment it is generally 10 per cent of your discretionary income, but never more than the 10-year Standard Repayment Plan amount.

Pay As You Earn (PAYE) – The FSA says this is generally 10 per cent of your income if you’re a new borrower on or after 1 July 2014, but never more than the Standard Repayment Plan amount.

Generally, 15 per cent of your discretionary income if you’re not a new borrower on or after 1 July 2014.

Income-contingent Repayment loan (ICR) – The lesser of the following: 20 per cent of your discretionary income or what you would pay on a repayment plan with a fixed payment over the course of 12 years, adjusted according to your income.

“Under all four plans, any remaining loan balance is forgiven if your federal student loans aren’t fully repaid at the end of the repayment period,” the FSA says on its site.

The table below, provided by the Federal Student Aid website shows data comparing monthly amounts and repayment periods under each plan.

Everything you need to know about the payment plans

(Federal Student Aid )

Who qualifies for student loan forgiveness?

Each individual income-driven replayment (IDR) plan has its own set of further eligibility requirements that you’ll need to meet to qualify.

For, SAVE any borrower with qualifying student loans is eligible for this plan.

With PAYE and IBR, the estimated payment you make for either of these plans has to be less than what you would pay on the Standard Repayment Plan within a 10-year period.

But for PAYE, only loans given after 1 October 2011 are eligible.

And with ICR, just like SAVE, any federal student loan borrower is eligible for this plan. But this plan is the only income-driven repayment plan that accepts PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) loans made to students.

How do I apply?

The FSA recommends that you contact your loan servicer if you have any questions as this will help you decide whether one of these plans is right for you.

To apply for the right plan, you can fill in the form online or via paper format – which you can get from your loan servicer.

During the application process, you’ll be asked to provide income information that will be used to determine your eligibility for the PAYE or IBR plans and to calculate your monthly payment amount under all income-driven repayment plans.

Find out more about the IDR plan request here.

Is there a deadline for applications?

The application period for student loan forgiveness will close on 31 December 2023.

How to avoid student loan scams

Getting a bunch of texts, emails and calls about student loan forgiveness?

Scams come in different forms, so it’s best to take extra caution. Here are a few ways to spot a scam:

– Being asked for log-in information: the FSA and loan providers will never ask you for these details.

– Promises that are too good to be true: according to the FSA, most government forgiveness programs require years of qualifying payments and/or employment in certain fields before forgiving loans.

– Typos in texts, emails or other forms of communication.

– Unofficial addresses or phone numbers:remember, official emails from the FSA will only come from these emails:

noreply@studentaid.gov

noreply@debtrelief.studentaid.gov

ed.gov@public.govdelivery.com

And text messages from the FSA will only come from 227722 or 51592.

Science & Environment

The Washington Post – Breaking news and latest headlines,…



For Israelis, even an extended pause in the Gaza war does not mean peace

Science & Environment

Tata Technologies IPO: Check Todays GMP Status; Share Allotment…



As per reports, the Tata Technologies latest GMP suggests a premium of Rs 414, suggesting that the scrip will have a stellar debut on its stock market listing. 

www.000webhost.com