Student Loan Repayment Options & Financial Wellness Programs*

Does hearing the words 'student loans' make your wallet flinch? If so, you’re not alone. Wellworks For You aims to help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of higher education funding. Financial wellness is more than just numbers on a paycheck or a balance sheet. It’s about feeling secure and in control of your financial journey. That’s where Wellworks For You comes in. We’re not just here to support your physical or mental health but to guide you through the maze of financial wellness, too. We aim to empower employees and program participants with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve financial stability and peace of mind. So, whether you’re figuring out how to manage those student loan repayments, or you’re an HR manager looking for ways to support your team’s financial health, we have the insights and resources you need.

What are the Different Types of Student Loan Repayment Plans?

With prices rising dramatically over recent years, many are turning to student loans to fund their educational aspirations. Understanding these loans is crucial to managing debt and minimizing long-term financial stress. Student loans generally fall into two categories: federal and private. Federal loans, backed by the government, typically offer more flexible repayment terms and lower interest rates than private loans, which are provided by banks, credit unions, and other financial entities.

When it comes to repaying federal student loans, borrowers have several options:

• Standard Repayment Plan: This involves fixed payments over a 10-year period, offering a quick and cost-effective way to clear debt for those who can handle the monthly payments.
• Graduated Repayment Plan: Initially lower payments that increase every two years, designed to align with expected income growth.
• Extended Repayment Plan: Extends the loan term to 25 years, reducing monthly payments but accruing more interest over time.
• Income-Driven Repayment Plans: These plans, including REPAYE (Revised Pay As You Earn), PAYE (Pay As You Earn), IBR (Income Based Repayment), and ICR (Income Contingent Repayment), adjust monthly payments based on income and family size.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Aimed at those in government or nonprofit roles, PSLF forgives the remaining balance on direct loans after 120 qualifying payments under a qualifying plan.

The recent introduction of the income-driven repayment plan, SAVE, also aims to reduce payments for many. For detailed guidance, resources like the Federal Student Aid's loan simulator and consultations with loan services offer tailored advice. Staying informed and proactive about repayment strategies is key to effectively managing student loans and achieving financial stability.

Borrowers seeking further information or assistance should first approach their loan servicer. The U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid website is a valuable resource for understanding federal loans, providing detailed guides and tools for planning repayment. Additionally, organizations like The Institute of Student Loan Advisors offer free counseling, assisting in navigating both federal and private loan options.

What is a Financial Wellness Program?

Now that we've unpacked the basics of student loans, let's talk about financial wellness programs and what they are. Think of these programs as your financial fitness trainers. Just like how a fitness coach helps you improve your physical health, financial wellness programs are designed to strengthen your financial health. These programs provide education, tools, and resources to help you make savvy financial decisions and keep your monetary matters in tip-top shape.

Financial stress can be a major distraction from your day-to-day activities, keeping you up at night and even affecting your work performance. When you have access to the right resources and know-how to manage your money effectively, that stress starts to melt away. You feel more in control, and more empowered. And that’s not only good for your wallet – it's fantastic for your overall wellbeing. For companies, implementing a robust financial wellness program is a win-win. Employees are happier, healthier, and more focused, which means better productivity and a healthier bottom line.

Wellworks For You's Financial Wellness Programs

So, what's in the financial wellness solution at Wellworks For You? Our programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of today's workforce. Here's a glimpse of what we offer:

• Financial Wellness e-Learning Series: Knowledge is power, and our e-Learning series are packed with valuable insights. From understanding your student loan options to mastering the art of budgeting, these courses cover it all.
• Financial Wellness Challenges: Ready for a challenge? Our financial wellness challenges encourage you to build healthier financial habits in a fun and engaging way. These can range from short-term goals to more extended 12-week programs.
• FinFit Financial Wellness Solution: This comprehensive package includes financial assessments, budgeting tools, courses, and one-on-one financial coaching. Think of it as your personal financial advisor, available anytime.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our LifeMatters EAP goes beyond the basics. It offers resources like financial and legal consultation, planning tools, and more, to ensure you're well-equipped to tackle any financial hurdle.
• Onsite Events and Health Fairs: Prefer a more hands-on approach? We've got you covered. Wellworks can organize events and fairs featuring a range of financial wellness resources and services.

Please note that the specific services available to you may vary based on your company's wellness program. To get the full picture, log into your Wellness Portal or reach out to your Wellness Program Coordinator.

If you are in the position to implement a wellness program in your workplace and are interested in starting a financial wellness program or adding it as a component to your existing program, click here to schedule a demo or to speak with a member of our sales team.

Remember, financial wellness is much more than just balancing a budget; it's about creating a sense of security and peace that permeates all aspects of life. At Wellworks For You, we understand this connection deeply. We believe in supporting our clients in achieving financial stability and enhancing their overall health and happiness. By reducing financial stress and providing the tools and knowledge to manage finances effectively, we help employees thrive both at work and in their personal lives.