October 28, 2021 – Corazon CRM

Refinancing your student loans with a cosigner could improve your approval chances as well as possibly get you a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own.

However, you don’t have to refinance with a cosigner if you meet the lender’s underwriting criteria on your own.

If you’re wondering how to refinance student loans without a cosigner, here’s what you should know:

Best lenders for refinancing without a cosignerOther student loan refinancing lenders to considerHow to refinance student loans without a cosignerPros of not using a cosigner when refinancingCons of not using a cosigner when refinancingHow cosigner release worksFrequently asked questions about refinancing without a cosigner

Best lenders for refinancing without a cosigner

If you’re thinking about refinancing your student loans without a cosigner, it’s important to compare as many lenders as possible first. This way, you can find the right loan for your situation.

Keep in mind: You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to get approved for refinancing — especially if you don’t have a cosigner. A good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher.

There are also some lenders that offer student loan refinancing for bad credit. But these loans typically come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

Here are Credible’s partner lenders that don’t require a cosigner for refinancing:

LenderFixed rates from (APR)Variable rates from (APR)Loan terms (years)Loan amountsOffer Cosigner Release?

Credible Rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

View details>
4.54%+N/A10, 15, 20$7,500 up to $200,000
(larger balances require special approval)Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
4.54%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$7,500 up to $500,000Loan terms (years):
10, 15, 20Max. undergraduate loan balance:
$250,000 – $500,000Time to fund:
4 monthsRepayment options:
Immediate repayment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a resident of KentuckyCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
NoCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan CorporationMax. graduate loan balance:
$250,000 – $500,000Credible Review:
Advantage Education Loan reviewOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing :
Yes

View details>
2.15%+
1.87%+5, 7, 10, 15, 20$10,000 up to $250,000
(depending on degree)NoFixed APR:
2.15%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $400,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must have a credit score of at least 720, a minimum income of $60,000, and must be a resident of TexasCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 – $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$200,000 – $400,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Does not disclose

View details>
2.44%+1
2.24%+15, 7, 10, 15, 20$10,000 to $500,000
(depending on degree and loan type)Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
2.44%+1Variable APR:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $750,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $150,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.99%+2
2.94%+25, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20$5,000 to $300,000
(depending on degree type)Yes, after 24 monthsFixed APR:
2.99%+2Variable APR:
2.94%+2Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
All states except for MECustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
College Ave Servicing LLCMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.16%+
2.11%+5, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 to $500,000Yes, after 36 monthsFixed rate:
2.44%+1Variable rate:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
$5,000 to $500,000Cosigner release:
YesLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states, except MS and NVCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
FirstMarkMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$500,000Max. graduate loan balance:
$500,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesMin. income:
$65,000 (for 15- and 20-year products)

View details>

1.8%+5
1.8%+55, 10, 15, 20$1,000 to $250,000Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
1.8%+5Variable APR:
1.8%+5Min. credit score:
700Loan amount:
$7,500 to $200,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and submit two personal referencesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)Max. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $199,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing :
Yes

View details>
2.47%+3
2.39%+35, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Minimum of $15,000NoFixed APR:
2.47%+3Variable APR:
2.39%+3Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
No maximumLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
ForbearanceFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have at least $15,000 in student loan debt, and have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an approved schoolCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
MohelaMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Graduate Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
3.47%+4
2.44%+45, 10, 15, 20$5,000 to $250,000Yes, after 48 months of on-time paymentsFixed APR:
3.47%+4Variable APR:
2.44%+4Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$5,000 to $250,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be U.S. citizen or permanent residentCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
YesMax undergraduate loan balance:
$250,000Max graduate loan balance:
$250,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.24%+7N/A5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Up to $300,000Yes, after 24 monthsFixed APR:
2.24%+7Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
Up to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Time to fund:
Usually one business dayRepayment options:
Academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance, death/disability dischargeFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 monthsMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$300,000Max. graduate balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS loans:
YesMin. income:
None

View details>
3.05%+
3.05%+7, 10, 15$10,000 up to the total amount of qualified education debt NoFixed APR:
3.05%+Variable APR:
3.05%+Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$10,000 up to the total amountLoan terms (years):
7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Military deferment, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
AESMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Gradaute Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.89%+N/A5, 8, 12, 15$7,500 to $300,000Yes, after 12 monthsFixed APR:
2.89%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$7,500 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 8, 12, 15Repayment options:
Does not discloseFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen and have and at least $7,500 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 12 monthsLoan servicer:
PenFedMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
3.29%+N/A5, 10, 15$7,500 up to $250,000
(depending on highest degree earned) NoFixed APR:
3.29%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
680Loan amount:
$7,500 to $250,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 states; must also have at least $7,500 in student loans and a minimum income of $40,000Customer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
Rhode Island Student Loan AuthorityMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 – $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$200,000 – $249,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.49%+6
2.25%+65, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 up to the full balance of your qualified education loans NoFixed APR:
2.49%+6Variable APR:
2.25%+6Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 up to the full balanceLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military defermentFees:
NoneDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoMax undergraduate loan balance:
No maximumMax graduate loan balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesAll APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | 1Citizens Disclosures | 2College Ave Disclosures | 5EDvestinU Disclosures | 3 ELFI Disclosures | 4INvestEd Disclosures | 7ISL Education Lending Disclosures | 6SoFi Disclosures

Compare personalized rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. 100% free!

Compare Now

Trustpilot

dvantage

Best for: Parents who want to transfer PLUS Loans to their children

With Advantage, you can refinance loan amounts from $7,500 to $500,000 (depending on your degree and loan type) with repayment terms from 10 to 20 years.

Advantage is also one of the few lenders that allow parents to refinance Parent PLUS Loans into their child’s name.

3.0
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

Advantage Education Loan Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
4.54%+

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lenderN/A

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualifyDoes not disclose

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$7,500 up to $500,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
4.54%+Variable APR: N/AMin. credit score: Does not discloseLoan amount: $7,500 up to $500,000Loan terms (years): 10, 15, 20Max. undergraduate loan balance: $250,000 – $500,000Time to fund: 4 monthsRepayment options: Immediate repayment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: NoneDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Must be a resident of KentuckyCustomer service: PhoneSoft credit check: NoCosigner release: After 36 monthsLoan servicer: Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan CorporationMax. graduate loan balance: $250,000 – $500,000Credible Review: Advantage Education Loan reviewOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing : Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discountCan transfer Parent PLUS Loans to studentGraduated repayment plan offered

Cons

$18,000 minimum income requirementDoesn’t offer variable ratesLong cosigner release period (36 months)

Learn More: Best Companies to Refinance Parent Plus Loans

Brazos

Best for: Borrowers who live in Texas

If you’re a Texas resident, Brazos could be a good option for refinancing. With Brazos, you can refinance $10,000 to $400,000 (depending on your degree) with terms from five to 20 years.

4.4
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

Brazos Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.15%+

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lenderN/A

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualifyDoes not disclose

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$10,000 to $400,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.15%+Variable APR: N/AMin. credit score: Does not discloseLoan amount: $10,000 to $400,000Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Military deferment, forbearanceFees: Late feeDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Must have a credit score of at least 720, a minimum income of $60,000, and must be a resident of TexasCustomer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: Does not discloseCosigner release: NoLoan servicer: Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $100,000 – $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: $200,000 – $400,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Does not disclose

Pros

0.25% autopay discountVariety of repayment terms offeredForbearance options available for economic hardship, active-duty military service, or natural disaster

Cons

Only available in TexasCould be hard to qualify if you don’t have good credit$60,000 minimum income requirement without a cosigner

Citizens

Best for: Borrowers who already have an account with Citizens

With Citizens, you can refinance loan amounts from $10,000 to $750,000 (depending on your degree and loan type) with terms from five to 20 years.

Additionally, if you already have an account with Citizens, you could get a 0.25% rate discount — plus another 0.25% off your rate if you sign up for autopay.

4.7
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

Citizens Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.44%+1

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
2.24%+1

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualifyDoes not disclose

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$10,000 to $750,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.44%+1Variable APR:
2.24%+1Min. credit score: Does not discloseLoan amount: $10,000 to $750,000Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: Late feeDiscounts: Autopay, loyaltyEligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer: Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: Less than $150,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discount0.25% loyalty discountDegree not required

Cons

Doesn’t disclose minimum credit score or income requirementsLong cosigner release period (36 months)Cosigner release not available on the Education Refinance Loan for Parents

Check Out: Can You Refinance a Student Loan to a 30-Year Term?

College Ave

Best for: Variety of repayment terms

College Ave offers refinancing on loan amounts from $5,000 to $300,000 (depending on degree type). Additionally, borrowers can choose between 16 repayment terms ranging from five to 20 years, making it easier to fit your payments into your budget.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

College Ave Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.99%+2

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
2.94%+2

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify Does not disclose

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$5,000 to $300,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.99%+2Variable APR:
2.94%+2Min. credit score: Does not discloseLoan amount: $5,000 to $300,000Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options: Military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: Late feeDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: All states except for MECustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer: College Ave Servicing LLCMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: Less than $300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discountVariety of repayment terms availableCosigner release offered after 24 months of consecutive, on-time payments

Cons

Doesn’t disclose minimum credit score or income requirementsUndergraduate or graduate degree requiredParents can’t transfer Parent PLUS Loans to student

CommonBond

Best for: Borrowers who plan to pay off their loan quickly

With CommonBond, you can refinance loan amounts from $5,000 to $500,000 with repayment terms from five to 20 years.

CommonBond also offers a unique hybrid loan option that starts with a fixed rate for the first half of the repayment term before switching to a variable rate — this could help you save money if you plan to pay off your loan quickly.

4.5
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

CommonBond Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed rate

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.44%+1

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify680

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$5,000 to $500,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed rate:
2.44%+1Variable rate:
2.24%+1Min. credit score: 680Loan amount: $5,000 to $500,000Cosigner release: YesLoan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: Late feeDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Available in all states, except MS and NVCustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesLoan servicer: FirstMarkMax. undergraduate loan balance: $500,000Max. graduate loan balance: $500,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing: YesMin. income: $65,000 (for 15- and 20-year products)

Pros

Offers a hybrid loan option that starts with a fixed rate for the first half of the repayment term before switching to a variable rate0.25% autopay discountUp to 24 months of forbearance available over the life of the loan

Cons

Must be have graduated from an eligible Title IV accredited university or graduate program within CommonBond’s network$65,000 minimum income requirement for 15- and 20-year productsNot available in Mississippi or Nevada

Learn More: Debt-to-Income Ratio for Refinancing Student Loans

EDvestinU

Best for: Borrowers who didn’t graduate

EDvestinU offers refinancing on loan amounts from $7,500 to $200,000 with terms from five to 20 years. Unlike many lenders, EDvestinU doesn’t require borrowers to have graduated to be eligible.

3.8
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

EDvestinU Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
1.8%+5

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
1.8%+5

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify700

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$7,500 to $200,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Does refinancing make sense for you? Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.View DetailsFixed APR:
1.8%+5Variable APR:
1.8%+5Min. credit score: 700Loan amount: $7,500 to $200,000Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: NoneDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and submit two personal referencesCustomer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: After 36 monthsLoan servicer: Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)Max. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $150,000 to $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: $150,000 to $199,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing : Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discountDegree not requiredNo application, origination, or disbursement fees

Cons

Could be hard to qualify if you don’t have good creditLong cosigner release period (36 months)$30,000 to $50,000 minimum income requirement (depending on loan amount)

ELFI

Best for: Borrowers with high loan balances

Education Loan Finance (ELFI) doesn’t have a maximum loan amount — you just need at least $15,000 in student loans to refinance. You can choose between repayment terms from five to 20 years — though keep in mind that 15- and 20-year terms aren’t available for parent borrowers.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

Education Loan Finance Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.47%+3

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
2.39%+3

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify680

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lenderNo maximum

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.47%+3Variable APR:
2.39%+3Min. credit score: 680Loan amount: No maximumLoan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options: ForbearanceFees: NoneDiscounts: NoneEligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have at least $15,000 in student loan debt, and have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an approved schoolCustomer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: NoLoan servicer: MohelaMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: No maximumMax. Graduate Loan Balance: No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

No maximum loan amountVariable rates capped at 9.95% APRUp to 12 months of forbearance available to borrowers facing financial hardship

Cons

Must have at least $15,000 to refinanceCosigner release not offered$35,000 minimum income requirement

Check Out: How to Pay Off $30,000 in Student Loans

INvestEd

Best for: Borrowers who might need access to forbearance

With INvestEd, you can refinance $5,000 to $250,000 with terms from five to 20 years. Additionally, borrowers can access up to 24 months of forbearance over the life of the loan, which could be helpful if you experience financial hardship or unexpected circumstances.

3.9
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

INvestEd Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
3.47%+4

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
2.44%+4

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify670

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$5,000 to $250,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
3.47%+4Variable APR:
2.44%+4Min. credit score: 670Loan amount: $5,000 to $250,000Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearanceFees: Late feeDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Must be U.S. citizen or permanent residentCustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: YesMax undergraduate loan balance: $250,000Max graduate loan balance: $250,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing: Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discountUp to 24 months of forbearance available over the life of the loanDegree not required

Cons

Charges late and returned payment feesLong cosigner release period (48 months)$36,000 minimum income requirement

ISL Education Lending

Best for: Borrowers who want to refinance while they’re in school

ISL Education Lending offers refinancing on loan amounts from $5,000 to $300,000 ($10,000 minimum for California residents) with terms from five to 20 years. Unlike many other lenders, ISL Education Lending doesn’t require you to have graduated — in fact, you can refinance while you’re still in school.

Keep in mind that if you’re still in school, you can refinance a maximum of $200,000.

4.2
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

ISL Education Lending Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.24%+7

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify670

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lenderUp to $300,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.24%+7Variable APR: N/AMin. credit score: 670Loan amount: Up to $300,000Loan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 15, 20Time to fund: Usually one business dayRepayment options: Academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance, death/disability dischargeFees: NoneDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Available in all 50 statesCustomer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: After 24 monthsMax. undergraduate loan balance: $300,000Max. graduate balance: $300,000Offers Parent PLUS loans: YesMin. income: None

Pros

Degree not requiredGraduated repayment plan offeredNo minimum income requirement

Cons

Variable interest rates not offeredCould be hard to qualify if you have poor creditLower maximum loan amount if you want to refinance while still in school

Learn More: When to Refinance Student Loans

MEFA

Best for: Borrowers who attended a public or nonprofit university

With the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA), you can refinance $10,000 up to the total amount of your qualified education debt. Repayment terms range from seven to 15 years.

Keep in mind that you must have attended a public or nonprofit university to refinance with MEFA — for-profit schools aren’t eligible.

4.0
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

MEFA Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
3.05%+

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
3.05%+

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify670

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$10,000 up to the total amount

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
3.05%+Variable APR:
3.05%+Min. credit score: 670Loan amount: $10,000 up to the total amountLoan terms (years): 7, 10, 15Repayment options: Military deferment, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: NoneDiscounts: NoneEligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: NoLoan servicer: AESMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: No maximumMax. Gradaute Loan Balance: No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

Might be able to refinance up to the total amount of your qualified education debtDegree not requiredNo fees

Cons

Not available for borrowers who attended for-profit universitiesNo discounts offeredLimited repayment terms (7, 10, or 15 years)

PenFed

Best for: Spouses who want to refinance their loans together

With PenFed, you can refinance $7,500 to $300,000 with terms from five to 15 years. PenFed is also the only major lender that allows spouses to refinance their loans together.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

PenFed Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.89%+

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lenderN/A

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify670

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$7,500 to $300,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.89%+Variable APR: N/AMin. credit score: 670Loan amount: $7,500 to $300,000Loan terms (years): 5, 8, 12, 15Repayment options: Does not discloseFees: NoneDiscounts: NoneEligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen and have and at least $7,500 in student loansCustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: After 12 monthsLoan servicer: PenFedMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $300,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: $300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

Spouses can refinance their student loans togetherCosigner release offered after 12 months of consecutive, on-time paymentsNo fees

Cons

No discounts offered$42,000 to $50,000 minimum income requirement (depending on loan amount)Must have bachelor’s degree or higher

Learn More: 4 Credit Unions for Student Loan Refinancing

RISLA

Best for: Borrowers looking for income-based repayment options

Most private student loans don’t offer the repayment options that federal student loans do. However, the Rhode Island Student Loan Authority (RISLA) offers an income-based repayment (IBR) plan to borrowers facing financial hardship. Like the federal IBR plan, your payments will be 15% of your discretionary income, and RISLA will forgive any remaining balance after 25 years.

With RISLA, you can refinance loan amounts from $7,500 to $250,000 (depending on the highest degree you’ve earned) with terms from five to 15 years.

3.7
Credible rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

RISLA Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
3.29%+

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lenderN/A

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualify680

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$7,500 to $250,000

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
3.29%+Variable APR: N/AMin. credit score: 680Loan amount: $7,500 to $250,000Loan terms (years): 5, 10, 15Repayment options: Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees: NoneDiscounts: AutopayEligibility: Available in all 50 states; must also have at least $7,500 in student loans and a minimum income of $40,000Customer service: Email, phoneSoft credit check: Does not discloseCosigner release: NoLoan servicer: Rhode Island Student Loan AuthorityMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance: $150,000 – $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance: $200,000 – $249,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing: Yes

Pros

Offers an income-based repayment plan to borrowers facing financial hardshipCan defer payments for up to 36 months if you return to graduate schoolDegree not required

Cons

Variable rates not offered$40,000 minimum income requirementCosigner release not offered

SoFi

Best for: Borrower perks

With SoFi, you can refinance loan amounts starting at $5,000 up to the full balance of your qualified education loans with terms from five to 20 years.

Additionally, SoFi borrowers have access to several perks, such as unemployment protection, career coaching, and investing advice.

Rates and terms

Fees and Discounts

Customer Experience

SoFi Student Loan Refinancing

Fixed APR

Lowest fixed rate available from this lender
2.49%+6

Variable APR

Lowest variable rate available from this lender
2.25%+6

Min. credit score

Minimum credit score needed to qualifyDoes not disclose

Loan amount

Range needed to refinance with this lender$5,000 up to the full balance

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates>Checking rates won’t affect your credit scoreView DetailsFixed APR:
2.49%+6Variable APR:
2.25%+6Min. credit score: Does not discloseLoan amount: $5,000 up to the full balanceLoan terms (years): 5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options: Academic deferment, military defermentFees: NoneDiscounts: Autopay, loyaltyEligibility: Available in all 50 statesCustomer service: Email, phone, chatSoft credit check: YesCosigner release: NoMax undergraduate loan balance: No maximumMax graduate loan balance: No maximumOffers Parent PLUS refinancing: Yes

Pros

0.25% autopay discountMight be able to refinance the full balance of your qualified education loansBorrower perks, such as unemployment protection and investing advice

Cons

Doesn’t disclose minimum credit requirementsDoesn’t offer cosigner releaseMust have earned an associate degree or higher from a Title IV school

Check Out: How to Get Student Loan Repayment Help

Methodology

To find the “best companies,” Credible looked at loan and lender data points from 12 categories to give you a well-rounded perspective on each of our partner refinancing lenders.

Here’s what we considered:

Interest ratesRepayment termsRepayment optionsFeesDiscountsCustomer service availabilityMaximum loan balancesWillingness to refinance parent loansEligibility criteriaCosigner release optionsWhether the minimum credit score is available publiclyWhether consumers could request rates with a soft credit check

Our hope is that this will be a win-win situation for you and us — we only want to get paid if you find a loan that works for you, not by selling your data. This means Credible will only get paid by the lender if you finish the refinancing process and a loan is disbursed. Additionally, Credible charges you no fees of any kind to compare your refinancing options.

Other student loan refinancing lenders to consider

Here are more student loan refinancing companies we evaluated. Keep in mind that these lenders are not offered through Credible, so you won’t be able to easily compare your rates with them on the Credible platform like you can our partner lenders.

LenderLoan terms (years)Max loan balance

View details>10, 20Undergrad: $249,000
Grad: $199,000Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
Up to $250,000Loan terms (years):
10, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
NoMax. undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $249,000Max. graduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $199,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
No

View details>5, 7, 10, 15Undergrad: $500,000
Grad: $500,000Rates:
fixed, variableMin. credit score:
Does not disclose Loan amount:
$60,000 to $350,000Cosigner release:
NoLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Fees:
NoneDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Available in CA, CT, FL, MA, NY, OR, WYCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$500,000Max. graduate loan balance:
$500,000

View details>10, 15, 20Undergrad: $249,000
Grad: $249,000Rates:
Fixed, variableMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $250,000Cosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan terms (years):
10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
Student Loan Finance CorporationMax. undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $249,000Max. graduate Loan Balance:
$200,000 to $249,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>5, 7, 10, 15Undergrad: None
Grad: NoneMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $300,000Cosigner release:
Does not discloseLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesMax. undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. graduate Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>5, 7, 10, 15, 20Does not discloseRates:
Fixed, variableMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $300,000Cosigner release:
YesLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Does not discloseFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Does not discloseCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
LendKey Technologies Inc.Max. undergraduate Loan Balance:
Does not discloseMax. graduate Loan Balance:
Does not discloseOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
No

View details>5, 10, 15Undergrad: $99,000
Grad: $150,000Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
Less than $150,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Does not discloseDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
YesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
Less than $99,000Max. graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $150,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>Does not discloseUndergrad: None
Grad: NoneMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
No maximumLoan terms:
Does not discloseRepayment options:
Academic deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
YesMax. undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. graduate Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
YesThe lenders in this table aren’t our partners. But you can use Credible to compare rates in 2 minutes from other lenders who offer student loan refinancing.

Compare Now

How to refinance student loans without a cosigner

If you’re ready to refinance your student loans without a cosigner, follow these four steps:

Check your credit. When you apply for refinancing, the lender will evaluate your credit to determine your creditworthiness — so it’s a good idea to check your credit beforehand to see where you stand. You can use a site like AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit reports for free. If you find any errors, dispute them with the appropriate credit bureaus to potentially boost your credit score.Compare lenders and pick a loan option. Be sure to shop around and compare as many student loan refinance companies as you can to find the right loan for you. Consider not only interest rates but also repayment terms, any fees charged by the lender, and eligibility requirements. After you’ve done your research, pick the loan option that works best for your needs.Complete the application. Once you’ve chosen a lender, you’ll need to fill out a full application and submit any required documentation, such as tax returns or pay stubs. Also be prepared to provide information regarding the loans you want to refinance.Manage your payments. If you’re approved, continue making payments on your old loans while the refinance is processed. Afterward, you could consider signing up for autopay so you won’t miss any payments in the future — many lenders offer a rate discount to borrowers who opt for automatic payments.Keep in mind: While you can refinance both federal and private loans, refinancing federal student loans will cost you access to federal benefits and protections — such as income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness programs.

Depending on your credit, you might qualify for a lower interest rate through refinancing. This means you could save money on interest and potentially pay off your loan faster. You can use our calculator below to see how much you can save by refinancing your student loans.

Step 1. Enter your loan balance

Loan balanceEnter the remaining amount of the loans you’d like to refinance

Step 2. Enter current loan information

Interest rateEnter the average annual interest rate of the loans you’d like to refinanceMonthly paymentEnter the monthly amount you currently pay on your loans (or enter remaining term)Remaining termEnter the amount of time left to repay your loan (or enter monthly payment)years

Step 3. Enter your new loan information to start calculating your savings

Interest rateEnter an estimated new interest rate.Monthly paymentEnter the monthly amount to pay on your new loan (or enter new loan term)New loan termEnter the amount of time you have to repay your loan (or enter monthly payment)yearsLifetime SavingsIncreased Lifetime Cost
New Monthly Payment>Monthly SavingsIncreased Monthly Cost
If you refinance your student loan at>
interest rate, you>can savewill pay an additional
monthly and pay off your loan by>.
The total cost of the new loan will be>.

Does refinancing make sense for you?

Compare offers from top refinancing lenders to determine your actual savings.

Check Personalized Rates

Checking rates won’t affect your credit score.

Check Out: Student Loan Repayment Calculator: Estimate Your Payoff Date

Pros of not using a cosigner when refinancing

Refinancing without a cosigner could be the right option for some borrowers, but it isn’t right for everyone. Here are a few potential benefits to keep in mind:

No need to find one: In some cases, borrowers might not know anyone with good enough credit to act as a cosigner. If you refinance without a cosigner, you won’t need to worry about this.No risk to your relationships: A cosigner shares responsibility for the loan — which means they’re on the hook if you can’t make your payments. If this happens, it could severely strain your relationship with your cosigner. By refinancing without a cosigner, you won’t risk potentially alienating any friends or family members.Only you are responsible for the loan: Without a cosigner, you’re the only one responsible for your refinanced loan. This means you can focus on repaying your loan without worrying about negatively affecting a cosigner along the way — which might feel financially empowering for some.

Learn More: When Student Loan Refi Is a Good Idea and When to Reconsider

Cons of not using a cosigner when refinancing

Could be hard to qualify on your own: If you have less-than-perfect credit, you might have a hard time getting approved for refinancing without a cosigner.Might not get the best rates: Even if you don’t need a cosigner to get approved, having one could get you a lower rate than you’d get on your own. Unless you have excellent credit, you might not qualify for the lowest rates advertised by lenders without a cosigner.Less motivation to stay on top of your payments: Some borrowers might need the extra motivation of having a cosigner to make on-time payments.

Check Out: Should I Pay Off My Student Loans or Invest in Stocks?

How cosigner release works

Some lenders offer a cosigner release option — so if you already have a cosigner, you might be able to remove them from the loan after meeting the requirements. Generally, you’ll have to make consecutive, on-time payments for a certain period of time and also meet the underwriting criteria on your own to qualify for cosigner release.

Here are Credible’s partner lenders that offer cosigner release:

Advantage After 36 monthsCitizensAfter 36 monthsCollege AveAfter 24 monthsCommonBond After 36 monthsEDvestinUAfter 36 monthsINvestEd After 48 months of on-time paymentsISL Education LendingAfter 24 monthsPenFed After 12 months

Learn More: How to Pay off Student Loans in 10 Years or Less

Frequently asked questions about refinancing without a cosigner

Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions about refinancing without a cosigner:

Can you consolidate student loans without a cosigner?

Yes, you can consolidate student loans without a cosigner. Keep in mind that the terms consolidation and refinancing are often used interchangeably, but they mean something different for federal and private student loans.

Federal student loan consolidation: You can consolidate federal student loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan. While this won’t change your interest rate, you can extend your repayment term up to 30 years to reduce your monthly payments — though remember that you’ll pay more interest over time. Unlike with refinancing, you don’t need good credit to federally consolidate your loans, and you don’t need to worry about having a cosigner. You also won’t lose access to your federal benefits.Private student loan refinancing: Also known as private student loan consolidation, this process lets you combine multiple student loans — leaving you with one loan and payment to manage. Depending on your credit, you might qualify for a better interest rate, which can save you money on your overall loan cost. Or you could opt to extend your repayment term to lower your monthly student loan payments. Keep in mind that if you refinance federal loans, you’ll no longer have access to federal protections.

Check Out: How to Consolidate Your Student Loans

What do I do if I can’t get approved for a student loan?

If you can’t get approved for a student loan without a cosigner, you have a couple of options:

Improve your credit. If you can wait to refinance, spend some time building your credit first. There are several ways to potentially do this, such as making on-time payments on all of your bills, paying down credit card balances, or becoming an authorized user on the credit card account of someone you trust.Apply with a cosigner. If there’s no way for you to get approved on your own, you might need to refinance with a cosigner. Keep in mind that a cosigner can be anyone with good credit — such as a parent, other relative, or trusted friend — who is willing to share responsibility for the loan. Also remember that you might be able to remove your cosigner from the loan later on if you qualify for cosigner release.

Learn More: Fixed or Variable Student Loan: Which is Right for You?

Can a cosigner be removed from a student loan?

Yes, there are two ways a cosigner can be removed from a loan:

Cosigner release: Several lenders provide a cosigner release option. This means you could have your cosigner removed from the loan after meeting certain conditions — in general, you’ll need to make consecutive, on-time payments for a specific period of time and meet the underwriting criteria on your own.Refinancing again: You can also remove a cosigner by refinancing your student loan again.

Check Out: How Long It Takes to Pay Off Student Loans

How much does it cost to refinance student loans?

There’s no upfront cost to refinance your student loans. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to pay any interest that accrues on the loan as well as any fees charged by the lender, such as late fees.

Tip: If you want to keep your repayment costs low, it’s a good idea to choose the shortest repayment term you can afford. This way, you’ll pay less in interest over time.

If you decide to refinance your student loans, remember to consider as many lenders as possible to find the right loan for you. Credible makes this easy: You can compare your prequalified rates from multiple lenders in two minutes — without affecting your credit.

Find out if refinancing is right for you

Compare actual rates, not ballpark estimates – Unlock rates from multiple lenders in about 2 minutesWon’t impact credit score – Checking rates on Credible won’t impact your credit scoreData privacy – We don’t sell your information, so you won’t get calls or emails from multiple lendersSee Your Refinancing Options
Credible is 100% free!

Trustpilot

The post 13 Best Loans for Refinancing Student Loans Without a Cosigner appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Loans Serivces

What Happens If You Miss a Mortgage Payment?

October 28, 2021 Kevin Smith

While nobody wants to miss a mortgage payment, it can happen — especially if money is tight one month.

Generally, missed payments can cause your credit score to plunge and lead to late fees. Multiple missed payments can even lead to foreclosure, further damaging your credit and leaving you with no home. But it doesn’t all occur at once.

Here’s what happens if you miss a mortgage payment:

The typical timeline of missed mortgage paymentsCOVID-19 and mortgage foreclosuresHow does a late mortgage payment affect my credit score?How much will a mortgage late fee be?How can I skip a mortgage payment without penalty?

The typical timeline of missed mortgage payments

A mortgage payment that’s overdue by just a few days might not have any impact on your credit. That’s because most loan servicers offer a grace period where you can make a payment within 15 days after the due date without penalties. After the grace period, it may charge you a late fee, which should be explained in your loan documents.

But failing to make a payment altogether can negatively affect your credit and the home loan.

One missed mortgage payment

Your servicer will likely report the missed payment to the credit bureaus once it’s 30 days late. This can hurt your credit score. Generally, a late payment can cause more damage for people with higher credit scores.

If you haven’t made a payment for 36 days, your loan servicer is required to contact you — though it may reach out sooner.

Good to know: The servicer can’t start foreclosure proceedings right away, but the late payment is a serious matter nonetheless.

Two missed mortgage payments

Once you’re 45 days past due, your loan servicer may assign someone to your account. They’ll contact you and let you know about your options.

After 60 days — or two missed mortgage payments — you’ll incur a second late fee. The late payment will also be reported to the credit bureaus.

Don’t Miss: What to Do If You Fall Behind on Mortgage Payments

Three missed mortgage payments

After three missed payments, your loan servicer will likely send another letter known as a demand letter or notice to accelerate. The letter acts as a notice to bring your mortgage current or face foreclosure proceedings.

Additionally, your loan servicer will report the late payment to the credit bureaus, which may cause your credit score to drop even more.

Four missed payments

Once you’re 120 days past due, if you haven’t arranged to make repayments with your bank, your loan servicer can start the legal foreclosure process. It can also add attorney fees to your balance.

The loan servicer’s attorney will schedule a home sale and notify you of the foreclosure date. This date varies with each state, but it may be as soon as two or three months after receiving your demand letter.

Good to know: If you make arrangements with your lender or pay the total amount due before the date of sale, you may be able to keep your home.

The loan servicer will also report the newest late payment to the credit bureaus, and your credit score may drop once again. Each late payment can stay on your credit history for up to seven years.

To find a great mortgage rate, be sure to shop around. Credible lets you do this easily — compare home loans from all of our partner lenders in one place. It’s free, and checking rates with us will never affect your credit score.

Credible makes getting a mortgage easy

Instant streamlined pre-approval: It only takes 3 minutes to see if you qualify for an instant streamlined pre-approval letter, without affecting your credit.We keep your data private: Compare rates from multiple lenders without your data being sold or getting spammed.A modern approach to mortgages: Complete your mortgage online with bank integrations and automatic updates. Talk to a loan officer only if you want to.Find Rates Now

Trustpilot

COVID-19 and mortgage foreclosures

Since early 2020, more than 7 million homeowners have taken advantage of mortgage forbearance programs to keep their accounts in good standing. Additionally, the U.S. government put a moratorium on foreclosures through the first half of 2021.

Although both measures helped foreclosure activity reach historic lows in 2020, homeowners may need to find another form of assistance. The foreclosure ban expired July 31, 2021, and about 1.75 million homeowners were still in some sort of forbearance program.

You might be able to extend your forbearance protection or get your account current by calling your mortgage lender and setting up a plan.

This can keep your account and credit in good standing. But if you can’t restart payments, your loan servicer will need to take extra steps — such as evaluating you for assistance programs — before starting the foreclosure process.

Mortgage forbearance

With mortgage forbearance, your loan servicer agrees to temporarily pause your monthly mortgage payments for a certain period of time. It also won’t start the foreclosure process.

During the coronavirus pandemic, lenders can report that your mortgage account is in forbearance. But, per the CARES Act, your account must be marked as “current” if it was in good standing before entering forbearance.

If your loan is federally backed, you can call your loan servicer and request pandemic-related mortgage forbearance until Sept. 30, 2021. Extensions may apply, too:

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans: Conventional loan borrowers may request an extension for a maximum of 18 months of forbearance. You may be eligible for the extension if you entered forbearance before Feb. 28, 2021.Government-backed loans: Borrowers with a loan backed by the FHA, VA, or USDA may request an extension as long as they enrolled in forbearance on or before June 30, 2020.

Loan repayment options

If you’re 120 days or more past due on your mortgage payments or you’re about to exit a mortgage forbearance program, your loan servicer must reach out to discuss options.

Here’s how you may be able to rehabilitate your account and avoid foreclosure:

Defer payments: You can resume regular mortgage payments and move any missed or suspended payments to the end of the loan term. This option is usually available for Fannie- and Freddie-backed loans, VA loans, FHA loans, and USDA loans.Modify the loan terms: The servicer may agree to a loan modification, where you change the loan’s length or interest rate to make the payments more affordable. On federally backed loans, your servicer may be able to lower your mortgage payment by 25% or more.Enter a repayment plan: You can also create a repayment plan with your loan servicer if you have a conventional mortgage, FHA loan, USDA loan, or VA loan. You’ll spread your unpaid balance over a certain period of time — such as 12 months — on top of your regular mortgage payments. This will temporarily result in higher monthly payments.Reinstate the loan: This option lets you pay back the outstanding balance all at once. Under all federally backed mortgage programs, loan servicers can’t require you to pay off your forbearance balance with a lump sum. But you can choose to do this if you have the funds.

Foreclosure safeguards

The loan payment options mentioned above may work for borrowers who are financially sound. But the loan servicer may be able to start the foreclosure process if a borrower still can’t make payments after forbearance ends or after missing four payments.

However, homeowners are protected by three new safeguards established by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Before starting foreclosure, the loan servicer must:

Ask the borrower to complete a loss mitigation application. The loan servicer must give you the opportunity to pursue loss mitigation, which may prevent foreclosure. Loss mitigation options include some of the repayment options we’ve already discussed (such as loan modification and repayment plans) as well as a short sale.Confirm the property is abandoned. If loss mitigation doesn’t work, the loan servicer may start foreclosure proceedings after confirming a property is abandoned under local and state laws.Reach out to the borrower. The loan servicer will also need to make a reasonable effort to reach the borrower.

These new safeguards apply on top of existing rules that bar loan servicers from starting the foreclosure process until a homeowner is at least 120 days past due on a home loan. They’ll be in effect from Aug. 31, 2021, to Dec. 31, 2021.

How does a late mortgage payment affect my credit score?

When you’re at least 30 days behind on mortgage payments, your loan servicer reports the information to the credit bureaus. The late payment can remain on your credit reports for up to seven years, and it may affect your credit score during this time.

Missing several payments in a row can damage your credit score more than missing only one payment. And multiple missed payments could result in foreclosure, which is one of the most damaging negative marks you can have on your credit.

How much will a mortgage late fee be?

Homeowners usually have a grace period of 15 days after the due date to make their mortgage payment. After that point, you may pay a late fee for each month that you miss a payment.

The late fee is set by state law, but it usually equals 3% to 6% of your monthly payment. So, if your mortgage payment is usually $1,000 and your late fee is 5%, then you may be on the hook for an extra $50 for each month you go without paying.

How can I skip a mortgage payment without penalty?

If you stop making mortgage payments but you’re in a foreclosure-prevention program — such as forbearance, loan modification, or a short sale — then you might be able to avoid foreclosure and the credit hit. Perform some research and request one of these options when you’re having financial problems.

The post What Happens If You Miss a Mortgage Payment? appeared first on Credible.

Did you miss our previous article…
https://corazoncrm.org/?p=277

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Real Estate

Refinance Programs for Seniors

October 28, 2021 Kevin Smith

If you’re a senior, you may have thought about taking advantage of record-low interest rates and refinancing your mortgage to save money or access your equity. However, you might also be wondering whether you can qualify for a refinance with your retirement income.

Read on to learn more about refinance programs for seniors, along with home loan refinancing options available to you during retirement:

How to refinance for seniorsRefinance program options for seniorsShould a senior refinance their mortgage?

How to refinance for seniors

The steps to refinance as a senior are essentially the same as the steps to refinance as a younger adult. One of the main differences is that you might be submitting Social Security statements instead of W-2s, and your assets could play a bigger role than your income in qualification.

Here’s how the refinancing process generally works:

Establish your goals for refinancing Ask yourself if you want a lower interest rate, a longer or shorter loan term, a pile of cash, or all of these.Check your credit. Figure out if your credit score is high enough to qualify for a conventional refinance or if you might want to consider an FHA refinance.Gather your most recent statements. Get statements from Social Security, your pension, your retirement accounts, and any other documentation of your income and assets.Shop around. Request quotes from several mortgage lenders to learn about your refinancing options.Choose the right loan. Find a loan that offers the best value and meets your needs.Apply for the loan and begin the underwriting process Promptly supply any additional documentation your lender requests, such as signed tax returns and proof of homeowners insurance.Close. Close on your refinance and enjoy your improved financial situation.

Refinance program options for seniors

Employment income is not a requirement to get a mortgage, and lenders aren’t allowed to discriminate based on an applicant’s age (you just have to be old enough to legally agree to a contract). So, you can still qualify for a mortgage if you’re over the age of 60 or retired.

Along with Social Security income, lenders will count distributions from retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s and Roth IRAs, as long as their calculations show that this income will be available for at least three years after closing.

Important: Government refinance programs for seniors aren’t really a thing. While many mortgages are guaranteed or supported in some way by federal taxpayers, these mortgages are open to all adult homeowners who qualify financially. State housing finance agencies sometimes have programs to help struggling senior homeowners, however.

Rate and term refinance

A rate and term refinance, also known as a traditional refinance, is a type of mortgage refinancing that meets Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac’s requirements. It can be the most cost-effective way for seniors in good financial standing to refinance their home loan.

A conventional rate and term refinance can give you a lower interest rate, shorter term, or both. If you have at least 20% equity, you won’t have to pay for private mortgage insurance, and these loans don’t have the additional costs that FHA and VA loans do.

Cash-out refinance

Seniors who want to do a cash-out refinance have many options, including a conventional loan, HomeReady cash-out refinance, FHA cash-out refinance, and VA cash-out refinance. This mortgage type will be most helpful if you can get a lower rate on your existing mortgage in the process. If not, a second mortgage might be a less expensive option.

Increasing how much you owe on your home during retirement goes against the conventional wisdom of paying off your mortgage before retirement. Still, it’s always worth checking to see if the usual advice makes sense in your situation.

When mortgage rates are low and you have enough cash flow from retirement accounts, Social Security, and other assets to make monthly mortgage payments, a cash-out refinance can be a good option to explore. It can help you unlock some of the equity in your home and allow you to enjoy your retirement more. Credible makes it easy to compare refinancing options.

Get the cash you need and the rate you deserve

Compare lendersGet cash out to pay off high-interest debtPrequalify in just 3 minutesFind My Loan
No annoying calls or emails from lenders!

Trustpilot

Fannie Mae HomeReady refinance

This loan may be a good fit for seniors because it’s designed for low-income borrowers. In 2021, the average monthly Social Security benefit for retired workers is $1,555, and it’s the sole source of income for many retirees.

Low-income borrowers whose existing mortgage is owned by Fannie Mae may be eligible for a HomeReady refinance. This loan merely requires that you have a credit score — no minimum score applies. The income limit to qualify is 80% of the area median. You only need to have 3% equity (97% LTV).

Fannie Mae RefiNow

This refinance program can help lower-income borrowers who have a Fannie Mae mortgage. You may be eligible if your income doesn’t exceed specified limits for your area, you haven’t missed more than one payment in the last 12 months (and no missed payments in the last six months), and you have a credit score of 620 or higher.

With this loan, you can finance your closing costs as long as your new monthly payment will be lower and your interest rate will be at least 0.5% lower. Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) can be as high as 65% and Fannie Mae will cover the appraisal fee.

Good to know: Most loans don’t allow a DTI higher than 50%. A generous DTI limit can help seniors whose retirement income is lower than their working income.

Freddie Mac Enhanced Relief Refinance

If your home loan is owned by Freddie Mac but your loan-to-value ratio is too high to qualify for a standard refinance — perhaps your mortgage is underwater — you may want to consider this program.

A high LTV ratio typically results in a higher rate, but the goal of this program is to make homeowners’ payments more affordable with a lower rate, shorter term, or fixed rate instead of an adjustable rate. A mortgage that can help you stretch your limited resources in retirement is worth a look.

Renovation refinance

Just because you’re a senior doesn’t mean you stop wanting to improve your home. In fact, renovations can be extra important to seniors who want to stay in their homes indefinitely. Certain improvements can make homes safer and more accessible as strength and mobility decline, and everyone needs a watertight roof over their head.

Renovation loans, like the Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation and Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation, can help senior homeowners replace their old mortgage with a new mortgage while also financing home improvements.

Tip: Renovation mortgages require you to jump through extra hoops to complete renovations, like submitting copies of purchase contracts and specifications to your lender and getting lender approval for change orders. You might prefer a more straightforward option to pay for your home improvements, such as a cash-out refinance or home equity line of credit.

FHA streamline refinance

Seniors who already have an FHA loan may want to consider an FHA streamline refinance. This loan doesn’t require an appraisal or credit check, which saves you money and allows you to refinance even if your home’s value has decreased or your credit has gotten worse.

An FHA streamline refinance is meant to provide a lower interest rate when refinancing from one fixed-rate mortgage to another, or payment stability when refinancing from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate mortgage. Stability and saving money are valuable benefits for seniors who need their retirement income and savings to go as far as possible.

Tip: Because of the expensive mortgage insurance required with FHA loans, seniors who qualify may be better off with a conventional loan. It’s also not the right choice if you need to cash out some of your equity.

VA IRRRL

Qualifying military service members with a VA loan may want to consider refinancing into a VA interest rate reduction refinance loan (IRRRL). Similar to an FHA streamline refinance, a VA IRRRL may be appealing if your income or home value has decreased. A drawback to this loan is the VA funding fee you’ll have to pay, which equates to 0.5% of the loan amount.

Learn More: VA Refinance: 3 Ways to Refinance a VA Loan

Should a senior refinance their mortgage?

Seniors who want to be debt free in retirement may not want to refinance into a longer loan term. However, you might be surprised to find that lenders offer terms other than 15- or 30-year mortgages. If you currently have eight years left on your mortgage and you don’t want to restart the clock on a 15-year loan, ask about refinancing into a five-, eight-, or 10-year loan.

Being debt-free isn’t an important (or realistic) goal for many seniors, though. If this describes your situation, you may want to refinance to take advantage of the equity in your home. As long as you can afford the monthly payments on your new loan, refinancing can allow you to access more equity at a lower cost than a reverse mortgage would.

Tip: Like all homeowners, as a senior, you’ll want to consider the breakeven period before refinancing. For instance, if you might move before recouping your closing costs, you may want to skip it.

There are a few other things you’ll want to consider before refinancing your mortgage as a senior. Think about whether you might end up downsizing, moving in with a relative, or relocating to a senior living community as you age. And, if you’re married, also think about whether you or your spouse might want to move out upon the other’s passing.

The post Refinance Programs for Seniors appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org