Some borrowers can lower their interest payments and simplify their finances by refinancing their federal and private student loans with a state education lender. State agencies and state chartered non-profit corporations have a funding advantage that enables them to make loans with lower interest rates than commercial lenders.

Taking a semester off from college doesn’t have to be a big deal, but it can be if you don’t handle the financial side of the equation correctly. When you drop below half-time enrollment, your student loans start using up the grace period before repayment begins. Interest on unsubsidized and private student loans will be charged.

A new study from Edward Jones revealed that Americans lack knowledge about the features and tax benefits offered by 529 plans. Few parents ranked saving for college as a top financial goal and 36% do not save for college at all.

A study from Fidelity shows more parents are saving for college than ever before, but they are still confused about how 529 savings plans work. By missing out on these key benefits, including federal (and sometimes state) tax savings, and favorable financial aid treatment, they could be leaving money on the table.