America is suffering from a student debt crisis
The cost of college increased tenfold since the 1970s. Meanwhile, the top 1% graduate debt-free and politicians continue to choose corporate tax breaks over funding for higher education.
Having college debt could mean having to put off saving for your own child’s college because you’re still paying for your own college debt. Or maybe you are having trouble paying your monthly bills because of a high monthly student loan payment.
The resources below can help you decrease the burden of student debt by giving you the information you need to find debt-relief and flexible repayment options.
Forgive My Student Debt/Public Service Loan Forgiveness
- Check out AFSCME's student debt resource page here.
- Important Update: Major expansions to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program mean that hundreds of thousands of public service workers will now qualify. Check your eligibility and learn more at http://forgivemystudentdebt.org and https://studentaid.gov/pslf/.
- A temporary waiver, effective till October 31, 2022 will count all payments on federal student loans toward PSLF, regardless of loan program or repayment plan.
- The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program exists to help public service providers to clear student debt years sooner and at significant discount compared to other borrowers.
Student Loan Borrower Assistance
- A comprehensive resource for borrowers, their families, and advocates representing student loan borrowers. http://www.studentloanborrowerassistance.org/
Tuition Exemption Program
- This is a terrific benefit for current state employees, and a way to avoid racking up that student debt! http://www.washington.edu/students/reg/tuition_exempt.html#eligible
Student Loan Questions: Get Answers
- A FAQ about the different types of student loans, terms and conditions, repayment options, default and delinquency, cancellations, and bankruptcy. http://www.studentloanborrowerassistance.org/start-here/get-answers/
Resource Guide for a Debt-Free Future
- In this Jobs-With-Justice packet you will find: Education Department factsheet; Wall Street factsheet; Description/docs for the income-driven repayment plans; Description/docs for Public Service Loan Forgiveness; Sample letter for private student loan modification; Sample letter for cosigner release.
