Student loans

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants to institute rules for certain non-bank loan servicers. What’s the likely result of the rules for borrowers and the industry?

Americans are reigniting their love affair with debt. Sure, it spurred a financial crisis. But it's also good for the economy.

So why can't students cash in on these crazy low interest rates, anyway?

Campus Progress wants students to be able to take advantage of low interest rates available for mortgages and car loans.

Yale and other universities are suing graduates who did not pay back Perkins low-income student loans because the funds for new loans come from former students paying back their debts.

All kinds of loans can get dismissed in bankruptcy work, except for student loans. But there are some exceptions to this rule.

The financial toll on families from the dreadful economy of recent years is enormous.

With interest rates on some student loans about to double, the Obama administration joins with colleges to provide clearer guidance on the real price of school.

I returned to graduate school and accrued about $45,000 in federal student loans. The interest rate on these 10-year loans is 6 percent, with repayment beginning in 2013. I also have a 401(k) worth about $100,000 (roughly $60,000 of my contributions and $40,000 of employer contributions). I realize that an early 401(k) withdrawal would result in a 10 percent early-withdrawal penalty and that any withdrawal would be considered taxable income. This would effectively reduce the amount the 401(k) would need to earn in order to be the better investment. Still, it can't be much less than 6 percent, can it? Is there anything about my assumptions that are wrong, or is there anything I am overlooking? Derek, Chicago, IL

My wife and I have taught in Alabama public schools for the past 2 years and have made (forced) contributions to the state retirement system in that time frame. Together, we've got around $8,000 invested in the state retirement system. Realizing the limited income prospects for career teachers, we both applied and were accepted to a top 25 law school on full-tuition scholarship. My question to you is this: For my retirement account, I have the option of either a) taking a lump-sum payment of the $8,000, minus 20 percent in federal income tax, or b) rolling it over into a 401(k), IRA, or similar long-term savings plan. Should I take the money and run, or should I start building a retirement nest egg while I'm financing the rest of my life with borrowed money? Alex, Montgomery, AL