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Tax season got you scratching your head? Let’s clear the fog. Join me and Rebecca Bauldauf, CPA, CCFC, from the SLP Wealth tax team, as we navigate the maze of taxes, student loan planning, family dynamics, and long-term financial strategies. Whether you're flying solo or juggling the finances of a growing family, you’ll discover actionable tips that could lead to substantial savings, from the ins and outs of tax service fees to strategies for retirement savings and dealing with the IRS. And if you're in search of a long-term financial ally, learn how to find the right tax help that aligns with your goals. Get ready to reshape your financial approach and transform your tax strategy! In today’s episode, you'll find out: The hidden impact of commoditized tax prep services When higher CPA fees become worthwhile for complex tax situations Advantages of hiring different firms for their practice and personal tax returns Two crucial financial moves for low-income earners How marriage changes your tax game, tax filing status and student loan payments Smart retirement savings strategies that factor in PSLF and employer matches Key steps for residents to maximize their tax bracket and student loan situation The secret weapon of the 1040-X form in tax filings How to navigate 'married filing separately' in community property states If you should link your student loan account to the IRS or manually certify income How tactical contributions to retirement accounts can make a huge difference in your student loan repayment journey Why coordinating tax and financial planning teams improves your financial position Pros and cons of filing taxes separately for childless couples with student loans The importance of long-term tax planning regardless of income level   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!

Financial advice has never been more accessible — or more questionable. Are you ready to tackle the truth behind those viral finance hacks you’ve seen online? The barrage of personal finance advice on platforms like TikTok is a siren song, promising financial security and a life free from money worries. But those tips can affect more than just your wallet. Some might get you a slap on the wrist, while others could land you in legal hot water. Join me as I sift through the noise of self-proclaimed “experts” peddling easy wealth, from misleading tax credit pitches and hazy tax advice to exaggerated real estate loopholes and sketchy investment opportunities. Discover how to distinguish between genuine advice and deceptive, flashy pitches to build a solid financial foundation that can withstand the trends and temptations of our times.  In today’s episode, you'll find out: How pandemic relief is stretching the IRS too thin, leading to tax fraud and scams The exact requirements and documentation for the short-term rental tax loophole Why you can’t focus solely on “maximizing wealth” The ins and outs of student loan loopholes and how to avoid pitfalls How visual effects can skew your perception of financial advice found on social media Why “vanilla” insurance products win out over complex insurance-investment hybrids How actuaries calculate insurance product profitability and why it favors the company Why the allure of low interest rates and novelty causes alternative investments to surge Why decisions based on student loan forgiveness programs can be risky The real estate loophole to use if one spouse works full time and the other takes on real estate investing The truth behind the marketing of whole life and universal life insurance Why tax-efficient index funds may be a better investment alternative How the concept of “infinite banking” could be misleading When borrowing against insurance products might not be the best option Why the smartest financial move is to verify before you buy     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!

Are you ready to strip away the layers of your financial life? We’re unbuttoning the secrets of debt management and financial planning. We cover everything from the impact of inflated car prices on credit and the potential risks and benefits of home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) to debt management strategies and the potential tax implications of forgiven debt. Senior Student Loan Advisors Sim Terwilliger, CFP®, CSLP®, and Meagan McGuire, ChFC®, CSLP®, share expert insights on debt consolidation, budgeting for recurring expenses, and the significance of prioritizing mental health while working towards financial goals. Get ready to shed some light on your financial wardrobe with valuable tips to help you become debt-free and financially empowered.  In today’s episode, you'll find out: The difference between the funnel method and the strainer approach for financial goals How the pandemic’s inflated car prices are impacting car loans and credit What high loan-to-value ratios mean for your credit score The role of credit reports for landlords, jobs, and future debt costs How car payments can make or break your house hunting journey A warning to parents about using HELOCs to pay for children’s college costs When to use HELOC vs. double consolidation for student loan debt What changes borrowers can expect in student loan forgiveness programs Why math-based strategies like debt avalanche or debt snowball aren’t a slam-dunk The sneaky language in cosigner agreements and why refinancing is a smart solution What types of debt to prioritize before paying off private student loans How to get out of default on federal student loans The secret to leveraging debt to earn money rather than paying it off Options when dealing with IRS debt and how to balance payment options   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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 world of real estate can feel overwhelming. The rewards can be incredible, but it’s a journey filled with highs and lows. Joining me is Student Loan Advisor Rebecca Baldauf, CPA, CCFC, and Senior Student Loan Advisor and partner in SLP Wealth Dan Rooker, CFP®, CSLP®. They’re sharing their experiences with multifamily properties, I open up about my challenges with home renovations, and together we’re getting real about real estate investment and why you shouldn’t let student loans get in your way. You’ll learn about savvy tax planning, investment strategies that can make a big difference, and what it takes to get Real Estate Professional Status. Whether you're already dipping your toes in the real estate waters or just real estate-curious, this episode is a fountain of insights, personal stories, and expert advice.   In today’s episode, you'll find out: Key tax-saving strategies and depreciation tricks in real estate How to calculate property depreciation from the purchase price Why real estate taxes are different from other investments The impact of real estate investment on financial health and lifestyle How real estate influences income-driven repayment plans  Why refinancing real estate in changing market conditions can be a smart move What Real Estate Professional Status is and how to get it When to use 1031 exchange to defer capital gains tax in real estate The good and the bad of investing in owner-occupied properties How passive real estate investments like REITs factor into taxes Why tax planning is crucial when renting out personal residences What bonus depreciation is and how it can help you build wealth Links mentioned: BiggerPockets Coach Carson Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

Just in time for tax season, I’m unraveling the complex tax strategy of married filing separately. You might have heard that it’s a game-changer, especially for folks with student loans. But it’s not at all straightforward. You’ll learn the dos and don’ts, and I’ll uncover tips to help you avoid costly mistakes and even find some savings along the way. We’ll talk about everything from how your and your spouse’s income can play a huge role to unexpected losses like tax credits and deductions. Also, if you're juggling things like adoption expenses, dependent care credits, or figuring out the best way to handle your retirement contributions, I've got you covered. Student loan borrowers on an IDR plan, don’t miss the best tip: find out how delaying your tax filing just might be in your best interest.   In today’s episode, you'll find out: Why married filing separately might lead to higher taxes, especially with uneven incomes How filing separately affects ACA subsidies and Medicare premiums The effect on tax credits and deductions, including those for dependent care and education Challenges with Roth IRA contributions when filing separately, including backdoor strategies Why filing separately is different in common law versus community property states How filing separately can interfere with small business deductions and credits Why delaying tax filing can save you money on income-driven student loan repayments Tax consequences for borrowers in loan forgiveness programs when filing separately The cost and benefits of professional tax services combined with financial planning How inaccurate income reporting can leave you vulnerable to audits and penalties Links mentioned:  Get profession-specific tax help with SLP Wealth   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

Get a sneak peek into what lies ahead in the world of student loans in 2024 as I discuss upcoming changes, potential scenarios and strategies you need to know. You’ll learn about administrative forbearance, income-driven recertification, the influence of the 2024 presidential election, and policy changes that could significantly impact you as a student loan borrower. There are many ways to save money right now on payments. So, if you want to stay ahead of the game, buckle up and get ready for an episode packed with valuable student loan insights.   In today’s episode, you'll find out:   About the widespread impact of the current administrative forbearance on over 3.5 million people How the administrative forbearance is causing a political stir between Democrats and Republicans The challenges arising from policies announced through press releases instead of legislation How the 2024 presidential election might reshape student loan policies Whether the administrative forbearance is likely to conclude in early 2024 The implications of income-driven recertification before March 2024 How to get a refund for payments made during the forbearance period Strategies for lowering payments by self-certifying income until October 2024 What the expiration of the IDR waiver means for borrowers How the new SAVE plan will alter payment plan rules The ripple effect of these changes on employers and personal finance strategies The potential for new cancellation rules and their impact on borrowers Consequences for borrowers with loans from 2007 to 2014 due to phased-out payment plans Proactive strategies for saving money as a student loan borrower   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

Want to build up your savings or cut costs in 2024? From filing taxes and saving on insurance to buying a car and saving for travel, I’m bringing you 10 ways you can save at least $1,000 this year. And some of these can potentially save you $10,000 or more. The best part? These are strategies you can learn and do on your own. Of course, you can enlist the help of a financial expert if you want more support on your journey.   Just know that you have the ability to stash away a good chunk of money this year… and who knows, maybe you’ll finally be able to take that vacation you’ve been dying to go on! Plus, you’ll learn how to get a limited-time discount on our investing course, Six-Figure Debt to Six-Figure Net Worth.   In today’s episode, you'll find out:   How to lower your tax bill with tax-loss harvesting  How car buying services (like Costco or Sam’s Club) can save you money on a new car The best way to save on flights, hotels, car rentals, and other travel necessities When to put off income recertification for income-driven repayment plans Why the stock market’s 26% gain in 2023 could be bad news If you should increase your policy deductibles Why “shopping around” for insurance policies is more than a marketing gimmick The effect of the difference in tax rates for saving vs. investing Why you should open a retirement account if you’re self-employed  When to opt for a brokerage account instead How to file taxes the smart way Why you’re uniquely positioned to weather a potential stock market downturn Links mentioned:  More ways to save money and cut costs with our Six-Figure Debt to Six-Figure Net Worth course Membership clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club Travel discounts at Hotwire and Hotels.com   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

We recently conducted a survey where thousands of our listeners generously shared their financial dreams for 2024. Listen in as I explore the top 10 financial goals straight from our audience. We’ll tackle debt management challenges, explore various paths to financial independence, early retirement, and personal fulfillment. You’ll get practical, actionable tips to fast-track your financial success. Whether your dream aligns with those shared by our audience or you’re pursuing your own unique goal, I’ll guide you on how to make it a reality. Let's dive in and discover the knowledge, tools, and path to help you achieve your financial goals in 2024 and beyond. In this episode, you'll find out: The top 10 financial goals of Student Loan Planner listeners and how to achieve them faster Misconceptions about helping family financially and the importance of providing knowledge and support A new financial perspective by re-evaluating the purpose of being debt free How redefining student loan debt as a 'tax' can shift your mindset and improve how you manage loans The impact of health ailments on individuals and families and the importance of planning for worst-case scenarios The benefits of strategically financing big-ticket items Different types of Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) and how it impacts work-life balance Encouragement to pursue travel and overcome obstacles such as financial constraints and limited time How to better align financial decisions and strategies with your goals Ways to adopt a conservative approach in planning for housing and other major expenses How leveraging multiple income streams can mitigate income loss fears and improve financial security Why your approach to worst-case scenario planning can enhance financial decision-making Strategies for transitioning to an entrepreneurial role while managing risks and fears How to achieve generational wealth to gain freedom and transform your life The importance of accountability in making your financial dreams a reality   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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 2023 comes to an end, it’s the perfect time to think about smart student loan moves you should make in 2024. First, I answer listener questions about administrative forbearance, consolidating loans, tactics for keeping student loan payments low, in-school deferment waivers and more. I’m not just helping you prepare for the upcoming shifts in student loan repayment plans, I’m also looping you in on tax advantages, smart deferment methods and common payment pitfalls that might have slipped under your radar. Get ready to step into the New Year with valuable insights and a solid game plan for your student loans. In today’s episode, you'll find out: Does administrative forbearance count for PSLF and IDR Can you get a refund for payments made while in administrative forbearance How to keep your student loan payment low (and how NOT to) How the 2024 presidential election results might impact student loan repayment When it makes sense to consolidate your loans after the IDR waiver What child-dependent tax credits you lose when you’re married but filing separately What professions could use an in-school deferment waiver or SAVE plan strategy Why you need to beware of the FSA payment tracker and forgiveness dates The importance of gathering your payment history and payment count The signup deadline for PAYE plans How to get ahead on Parent PLUS double consolidation applications What to do when administrative forbearances end 
Links mentioned:  Need help with taxes? Get answers with our tax team Have questions about being married and filing taxes separately? Book a call now! Check out our doctor mortgage calculator

Listen in to a panel of student loan experts recorded live at FinCon 2023. FinCon is the world’s largest financial content expo. You’ll hear first-hand strategies and tips from lawyers and financial planners specializing in student loans. Together, they answer audience questions and discuss student loan topics like loan repayment and risk mitigation strategies, consolidation vs. refinancing, what happens when you default on your loans and the future of student loan forgiveness in 2024. This is a fun, yet informative bonus episode with insights from the best student loan experts to help you on your path to repayment.   In today’s episode, you'll find out:   A student loan lawyer’s perspective of the current/future state of student loan forgiveness If there will be a replacement student loan forgiveness plan in 2024 and who could benefit Whether the IDR waiver will be fully implemented before the 2024 election How PSLF relates to IDR account adjustments The difference between student loan consolidation vs. refinancing How the SAVE plan is different from other income-driven repayment plans (and why it’s so beneficial for borrowers) If you can still access the SAVE plan or get loan forgiveness after refinancing loans into private student loans How to mitigate tax risks related to student loan forgiveness How student loan borrowers get into default and the top 3 ways to resolve a defaulted student loan How to negotiate a settlement after you default on your student loans Things you need to know when filing for bankruptcy with unpaid student loans Links mentioned:   Get out of default: Fresh Start from the from the U.S. Department of Education Find local student loan attorneys in your state: National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA)   Connect with the panelists:   Adam S. Minksy, Student Loan Lawyer at Minsky Law Meghan McGuire, Certified Student Loan Planner at SLP Jay Fleischman, Managing Attorney at Money Wise Law Tate Law (Law Office of Stanley Tate)   Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

Get ready for part two of our 40 tips to supercharge your student loan repayment journey. Hosts Ben Lacomis, CSLP®, Derenda King, CFP®, CSLP®, Scotty McDonald, CSLP®, and Meredith Jones, CSLP®, AFC®, share valuable insights on student loan forgiveness, income driven repayment plans, and other critical strategies for managing student debt. From exploring federal loan forgiveness options to budgeting tips and tricks, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you optimize your approach to student loan repayment. In today’s episode, you'll find out: How income driven repayment (IDR) eases the burden for those with high balances or low income Expert tips to qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) When consolidating your student loans is a smart move or a financial misstep How a ladder approach in refinancing can unlock lower interest rates for your student loans Creative alternatives to manage student loan debt when forgiveness programs don't fit Budgeting hacks and lifestyle shifts that can turbocharge your loan repayment journey How to make sure you’re not missing out on teacher or military loan forgiveness When and how bankruptcy might be your escape route from student loan burdens The secret link between credit scores, timely payments, and better student loan terms Why pursuing loan forgiveness in rural healthcare careers can be a game-changing strategy Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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 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!  

Whether navigating the post-graduation grace period, exploring new repayment options, or looking to supercharge your loan payoff, this episode is jam-packed with practical advice to help you take charge of your financial journey.  Hosts James Mwombela, CFP®, CSLP®, Rebecca Baldauf, Jake Courtney and Sam Silberstein deliver a wealth of insights for effectively managing student loans. No matter where you are in your career, you’ll walk away with actionable tips and the latest strategies to confidently tackle your student loan debt.  In today’s episode, you'll find out: The financial benefits of paying during the grace period to minimize interest accumulation How consolidating loans after graduation can be smart, especially if your past income was more 'ramen diet' than 'caviar dreams' The value of a student loan planner in creating personalized repayment strategies that align with your career ambitions and financial situation How returning to school could enhance career prospects and open doors to loan forgiveness Potential upcoming improvements in income-driven repayment plans Insights on managing student loans with strategic considerations for prioritizing private student loans  The date Parent PLUS loans need to know for access to lower monthly payments How claiming student loan interest deductions affects your AGI Why avoiding forbearance is crucial when aiming for loan forgiveness The role of the debt avalanche method and current considerations for refinancing student loans How targeting high-interest student loans first can be a strategic move for repayment The ins and outs of the 12-month ramp-up period for borrowers struggling to make payments The benefits of an income-driven repayment plan as an alternative to default Like the show? There are several ways you can help! Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts 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