Thinking About Paying Off Your Child's Student Loans? 5 Things to Consider
Paying off your child's student loans is a generous act, and it might make sense for your financial situation, but before diving in, there are some important factors to consider.
Hello Discerning Parents and Future Graduates,
Today, we're navigating another crucial chapter in our guide to mastering the financial maze of funding higher education. For all the Jills and Jacks considering paying off your child’s student loans, here are some things to consider.
College tuition is at an all-time high. It's no wonder parents want to help their children pay off their student loans as quickly as possible. Paying off this debt could help set your child up for success as they make important financial choices, such as applying for a mortgage. But is paying off your child's student loans early always the best option? Here are five things to consider when deciding whether to help your child pay off their student loans.
Consider Any High-Interest Debt First
Before helping your child pay off their student loans, you should consider if you have any high-interest debt yourself. Generally, student loans feature a moderately low-interest rate (around 7% - 9% depending on the loan).
If you have debt at a higher interest rate, such as credit card debt or a personal loan, you may want to consider paying off that debt first before helping your kids. Prioritizing debt repayment by interest rate can help you decide whether you should help pay off student loans or other debts first.
Your Payments May Qualify as Tax-Free Gifts
Some parents may want to pay off their child's student loans but are afraid of triggering a gift tax. Luckily, there are a few ways around this tax.
According to the IRS, the tuition you pay for someone may qualify as a non-taxable gift. [1] However, this is applicable only when the payment is made directly to the school or university. With that in mind, if your child has any student loans that were issued by the university, payments towards these expenses may be tax-free. Talk to your CPA or a tax professional to be sure.
Another way to avoid this gift tax is to stay within the gift tax exclusion for the year. In 2024, the gift tax exclusion is $18,000. [2] This means that each parent can give up to $18,000 a year ($36,000 total). As long as your gift stays within these parameters, you shouldn't have to pay a gift tax.
Discuss a Repayment Plan
If you are worried about your child's ability to make their student loan payments on time and want to help, it might be worth having a conversation with them, as well as their lenders, to see if there are any repayment plans available. Most loans, especially federal student loans, offer repayment plans that can be stepped up or down depending on your child's income. [3]
Research Loan Forgiveness Options
In addition to student loan repayment plans, there are also some loan forgiveness plans available that your child might qualify for. [4] For example, there are student loan forgiveness options for students who pursue certain careers in the public sector.
Don't Forget Retirement
As important as it is to take care of your children, it's also important to take care of yourself. As you get closer to retirement age, it might make more sense to contribute the money you would have used for your child's student loans to your retirement savings. Your children have long careers ahead of them to make payments on their loans. As your earning years come to a close, it's important to prioritize retirement savings because you won't be able to work forever.
Paying off your child's student loans is a generous thing to do, and it might make sense for your financial situation. Before diving in completely, it's important to consider possible repayment plans, loan forgiveness, tax implications, and other debt and savings goals.
Are you looking to craft a financial strategy that supports your children’s education while ensuring your retirement is secure? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start on the path to financial tranquility.
Warm regards,
Julie Bray
Your Family's College and Retirement Champion
GW Financial, Inc.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by GW Financial, Inc. to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2024 GW Financial, Inc.