student with denim jacket on laptop

Guide to Military Student Loan Forgiveness

Serving the country could serve your bottom line. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard offer programs for repaying part or all of your student loans, if you qualify.

In this guide, you’ll learn about military student loan forgiveness and other repayment relief options.

Key Points

•   Military branches offer student loan repayment assistance programs that can cover significant portions of student loans for eligible members who commit to specific service terms.

•   The Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard have distinct programs, with potential repayments reaching up to $65,000 depending on the branch and commitment length.

•   Various programs exist specifically for health professionals and certain military roles, providing substantial repayment assistance, sometimes exceeding $40,000 annually.

•   Additional benefits for service members include interest rate caps and waivers on student loans while deployed in hazardous areas, enhancing financial relief during active duty.

•   While military forgiveness options exist, some programs require careful navigation of eligibility criteria, and refinancing may impact access to federal repayment benefits.

Does the Military Pay Off Your Student Loans?

It might, but you must choose to work in specific military specialties, score at least 50 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, and commit to years of duty.

Here are repayment programs offered by the different military branches.

Military College Loan Repayment Program

Military enlistees, and some already enrolled members, can receive student loan repayment (LRP) assistance of up to $65,000 for a three- or six-year commitment. Federal student loans and even some private student loans may be forgiven.

To qualify for the LRP programs, you cannot have previous military experience. You must choose to work in one of the military occupational specialties that the military branch is seeking. And many of the programs will require withdrawal from the GI Bill program.

Army Student Loan Repayment: Active Duty

The Army’s Loan Repayment Program is offered to highly qualified applicants enlisting for at least three years. If you meet the eligibility requirements, the Army will pay up to 33.33% of your current principal balance, or $1,500, whichever is greater, per year served. The maximum in loan assistance is $65,000.

Army Reserve College Loan Repayment Program

For this Reserve repayment program, you must enlist for at least six years. The Army will repay 15% of your outstanding principal balance or $1,500, whichever is greater, after each year of service. The total can’t exceed $20,000.


💡 Quick Tip: Get flexible terms and competitive rates when you refinance your student loan with SoFi.

Refi now to pay off loans &
reach your goals faster with a shorter term.


National Guard Student Loan Repayment Program

To qualify for the National Guard Student Loan Repayment Program, you must enlist for at least six years. You could earn up to $7,500 each year of the incentive term, or up to $50,000 in total student loan repayment.

Navy Student Loan Repayment Program

The Navy will pay 33.33% of the principal balance of a borrower’s federal student loans or $1,500, whichever is higher, for each year of service, up to three years.

The Navy Loan Repayment Program may pay up to $65,000 toward a service member’s student loans.

Coast Guard Loan Repayment Program

The Coast Guard offers new members who commit to three years of service up to $10,000 in loan repayment each year after the first year of active service. The maximum assistance is $60,000.

Health Professions Student Loan Repayment Program

This Army program eases the student debt of doctors, dentists, and other health care professionals who are on active duty or in the Army Reserve. Borrowers can get up to $40,000 of their student loans repaid annually. The maximum assistance is $120,000.

Then there’s the Air Force Financial Assistance Program, for medical and dental residencies. You may receive more than $45,000 for every year you participate in the program plus a stipend of more than $2,000 per month to cover living expenses. Upon completion of your residency, you will have a one-year obligation for each year of participation, plus one extra year.

Prior Service Soldier Loan Repayment Program

Members of the Army Reserve with prior military service who re-enlist in the Army National Guard may receive up to $50,000 for student loan repayment.

Air Force Judge Advocate General’s Corps Loan Repayment Program

Eligible judge advocate generals (JAGs) can apply for up to $65,000 in student loan repayment. After you have completed the first year as a JAG officer, payments are made directly to lenders for three years.


💡 Quick Tip: When rates are low, refinancing student loans could make a lot of sense. How much could you save? Find out using our student loan refi calculator.

Other Loan Forgiveness Programs for Military Personnel

National Defense Student Loan Discharge

Active-duty soldiers who have served in hostile fire or imminent danger pay areas for at least one year are eligible for cancellation of their federal Perkins Loans.

A borrower may see 100% of their loan principal, plus interest, canceled for a five-year term of service that began on or after Aug. 14, 2008.

Veterans Total and Permanent Disability Discharge (TPD)

If you are totally and permanently disabled, you may qualify for TPD discharge of your federal student loans or TEACH Grant service obligation.

Veterans can qualify by providing documentation from the VA that shows they received a VA disability determination.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

In the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, borrowers who serve full time in the military or who have gone on to other types of public service, including in government agencies, nonprofits, and public health organizations, may have federal student loan balance discharged after making 120 qualifying payments).

To be eligible, you must work for a qualifying employer and have eligible loans, including most federal Direct loans.

Recommended: Smart Strategies to Lower Your Student Loan Payments

Other Student Loan Benefits for People in the Military

Interest Rate Cap

Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, the interest rate on any debt incurred before enlisting in the military, including both federal and private student loans, is capped at 6% while you’re on active duty.

Interest Waiver for Those at Dangerous Posts

The Department of Education announced in late 2021 that Under the Higher Education Act, service members deployed to areas that qualify them for imminent danger or hostile fire pay would have no interest accrual on certain federal student loans that were first disbursed on or after Oct. 1, 2008.

The Takeaway

Military student loan forgiveness is possible if you clear a number of hurdles. But you might still need to pay at least a portion of your loans while you’re enlisted and after you resume civilian life.

For many people, refinancing student loans can be a way to get a lower interest rate or a lower monthly payment, especially with a solid credit and employment history. (Note: You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.)

Refinancing allows you to take out a new loan, with new terms, and use it to pay off your existing federal or private student loans. While doing so can have advantages, if you refinance federal; loans you lose access to federal programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans, and some of the military-specific loan repayment assistance.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Does the VA forgive student loans?

The Department of Veterans Affairs has a student loan repayment program for employees in certain occupations. You may be eligible to receive up to $10,000 per year, with a maximum of $60,000, toward the debt.

The VA also offers the Education Debt Reduction Program for health care providers who serve veterans. Up to $200,000 in student loan repayment is offered over a five-year period.

How much student loan debt will the military pay?

The exact amount the military will pay in student loan debt depends on the military branch a borrower is serving in. The Army and Navy repay up to $65,000. The Coast Guard pays up to $60,000 in student loan debt, while the National Guard pays up to $50,000.

Do 100% disabled veterans pay student loans?

A veteran who is declared totally and permanently disabled may be able to qualify for a TPD discharge with the proper documentation from the VA. After receiving the discharge, the borrower is typically not required to repay federal student loans.


SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOSLR-Q325-008

Read more
woman on couch on laptop

A Guide to Student Loan Settlements

If you’re struggling with student loan debt, you may be considering the idea of pursuing a student loan settlement. But is it really possible to settle student loan debt for less than you owe?

In many cases, probably not. However, there are ways for some borrowers to get a student loan settlement if you’re in dire circumstances — though the risks might outweigh the rewards. Here’s what you need to know — plus other ways to help lower student loan payments.

Key Points

•   With a student loan settlement, borrowers settle their debt with lenders for less than they owe on it.

•   Default is required for federal loan settlements, leading to negative credit impacts.

•   Private lenders typically offer more flexible settlement terms than federal loans.

•   Income-driven repayment plans and forgiveness programs provide alternatives to manage payments.

•   Refinancing can lower payments but may result in loss of federal benefits.

What Is a Student Loan Settlement?

A student loan settlement is settling your debt for less than what you owe on it and then making affordable repayments.

Settlements probably aren’t an option for people who make on-time, minimum payments. A lender isn’t likely to accept a settlement for less than what you owe if they have reason to believe you will eventually be able to pay back the entirety of the loan.

Typically, you can consider a settlement if your student loans are in default. Once a federal student loan is in default, the entire balance comes due immediately, unlike loans in good standing, where you’ll have a minimum payment due each month.

Federal Student Loan Settlement

If you have student loans that you’re looking to settle, you first need to make sure you qualify to do so. You’ll need to currently be in default, which generally happens when you miss loan payments for 270 days. Default can negatively impact your credit score, making it difficult to obtain loans or credit, your wages may be garnished, and the lender may send your loan to collections.

A settlement for federal student loans is typically less common since the Department of Education can garnish your wages or offset your tax refunds to collect what you owe. When a settlement for a federal loan is possible — which typically occurs only after all other collection methods have been tried — it’s called a compromise. It means you’re making a deal to pay off your loan for less than what you borrowed.

This is different from student loan forgiveness, which cancels your loans under certain circumstances.

For a federal student loan settlement (or compromise), loan servicers typically have three potential options:

1.    Waiver of fees. You’re now only responsible for the principal balance and interest, not the fees.

2.    Half interest and fees waived. All your fees are waived, plus 50% of the interest. You’re only responsible for the other 50% of interest and the principal balance.

3.    10% of principal balance and fees waived. You’re responsible for 90% of the principal balance and remaining interest.

Settling Private Student Loans

If you have private student loans that you want to settle, your options are a bit different than federal loans. Your settlement will depend on your lender and what terms they are willing to accept. Each private lender is different, so you will have to contact them directly and ask their terms for settlement — if they accept settlements at all.

Alternatives to Student Loan Settlements

A student loan settlement is not without consequences. Your credit will likely take a hit when the loan is in default and also once it is settled. However, if your loans aren’t in default, there may still be other ways for you to avoid default and lower your monthly payments.

1. Income-driven repayment plans (IDR)

For federal student loans, you can see if you qualify for an income-driven repayment (IDR) plan. There are currently three options to choose from: Income-Based Repayment, Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and Income-Contingent Repayment. They all vary based on the details of your financial situation, like your discretionary income and family size.

Just be aware that IDR plans are scheduled to close in 2026. Beginning in summer 2026, borrowers will have only two repayment plans to choose from, including one new plan called the Repayment Assistance Program that is similar to an IDR plan.

2. Student loan forgiveness programs

There are ways federal student loans can be forgiven — if you qualify. With forgiveness, your loans are canceled, and you don’t have to pay off a balance, as you would with a settlement.

If you work in public service, education, healthcare, and some other sectors, you may be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness. To take advantage of certain federal programs, like Public Student Loan Forgiveness, you need to make 120 qualifying monthly payments under an eligible repayment plan and work for a qualifying employer to be eligible.

3. Discharging a loan

Getting your student loan discharged isn’t the same as forgiveness, but it does mean your loan may get partially or completely canceled. You may qualify if you’re permanently disabled, your school closed, or, possibly, you file for bankruptcy. If you’re a veteran with a service-related disability, you receive Social Security Disability Insurance, or your doctor has diagnosed your disability, you might qualify to have your loan discharged.

If you have federal loans, and you feel your school “misled” you, promising jobs or certain salaries after graduation, you may qualify to apply for Borrower Defense Discharge through the Department of Education. Although a federal court has issued an injunction against the borrower defense discharge program, delaying payments, borrowers can still submit an application.

Student Loan Refinancing

When you have a few different student loans, it can be overwhelming to pay them all on time every month. And with varying interest rates, it can get confusing.

Refinancing your student loans replaces all of your loans with one new one. You get new terms and a new interest rate. Your new interest rate is usually determined by your credit score; ideally if your credit is strong, you might qualify for a lower rate.

If you’re having trouble meeting the minimum requirements, you could consider trying to get a student loan cosigner.

Refinancing could be an option to consider if you’re struggling to make your payments on time every month. Refinancing may help you lower payments and possibly your interest rate, depending on your terms. (You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.) Check out our student loan refinance calculator to get an idea of how refinancing could help your student debt situation.

It’s important to note that refinancing federal loans with a private lender means you would lose out on any federal benefits, including access to income-driven repayment programs or potential student loan forgiveness.

The Takeaway

While student loan settlements are rare — especially for federal loans — there are other options for borrowers who are struggling to pay their loans. If you have federal loans, you can currently apply for an income-driven repayment program and in some extreme cases, you may qualify for your loan to be discharged. Another option you may want to consider is student loan refinancing.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

Can you negotiate a settlement on student loans?

Yes, it is possible to negotiate a settlement on student loans to pay off your loan for less than you borrowed. In general, private lenders have more flexibility to negotiate, though each one will determine the specific settlement terms they are willing to accept. Contact your lender to discuss your options.

A settlement for federal student loans is typically less common since the Department of Education can garnish your wages or offset your tax refunds to collect what you owe. A settlement typically only occurs only after all other collection methods have been tried, and it’s referred to as a compromise.

How is the student loan settlement figure calculated?

You’ll need to negotiate a private student loan settlement with your lender. For a federal student loan settlement (called a compromise), loan servicers typically have three potential options to offer: the borrower is only responsible for the principal balance and interest, not the fees; the borrower is only responsible for 50% of interest and 50% of the principal balance; and the borrower is responsible for 90% of the principal balance and remaining interest.

Is it possible to negotiate a lump-sum payoff of student loans?

It may be possible to negotiate a lump-sum payoff of student loans, but only after the loans have gone into default. To pursue this option, a borrower will typically need to negotiate with their loan servicer and demonstrate serious financial hardship. It’s generally easier to negotiate a lump-sum payoff of private student loans than federal student loans. Lump-sum payoffs for federal loans are fairly uncommon.


SoFi Student Loan Refinance
Terms and conditions apply. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are private loans. When you refinance federal loans with a SoFi loan, YOU FORFEIT YOUR ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL FEDERAL LOAN BENEFITS, including all flexible federal repayment and forgiveness options that are or may become available to federal student loan borrowers including, but not limited to: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Income-Based Repayment, Income-Contingent Repayment, extended repayment plans, PAYE or SAVE. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers.
Learn more at SoFi.com/eligibility. SoFi Refinance Student Loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOSLR-Q325-007

Read more

How Does Subleasing Work for an Apartment?

How does subleasing work? Whether you’re a current tenant thinking about subleasing your apartment or a prospective renter looking at a possible subtenant situation, you might be wondering if it makes sense to sublease an apartment.

Subleasing is like renting from another renter instead of the landlord. The rights of the original lease between the owner and the original tenant are transferred to the subtenant, yet the original tenant is still responsible for fulfilling contractual obligations of the lease. If the subtenant doesn’t pay, for example, the original tenant will likely still need to pay the landlord rent. (Note that subleasing is different from subletting, in which you let a new tenant take over your current lease and have a direct relationship with your landlord.)

Subleasing may be worth considering when a tenant needs to move out before their lease expires. It’s also common when a tenant needs to leave for a short time and wants to return to the apartment later.

Key Points

•   A sublease creates a new landlord-tenant relationship between the original tenant and the subtenant.

•   Subleasing might be considered when a tenant needs to move out before their lease expires or temporarily leave the apartment – for a semester studying abroad, for example.

•   The original tenant remains responsible for fulfilling contractual obligations to the landlord, including making sure the rent is paid and the property is not damaged.

•   It’s important to thoroughly vet potential subtenants, which can include performing a credit check, a background check, and income verification.

•   A well-drafted sublease contract is essential to protect the original tenant’s interests and to outline the terms and conditions of the sublease.

What Is Subleasing?

Subleasing is a legal way for a tenant to rent out their property to another tenant (also called a subtenant). The original tenant remains on the lease and is expected to fulfill the obligations of that lease. They may be responsible for damages caused by the subtenant, for example, or their missed rent payments.

There are a number of scenarios where subleasing might make sense, such as when a tenant wants to rent out extra rooms or when the original tenant needs to leave the area for a new employment opportunity. Breaking leases can be quite costly, so if the landlord allows for a unit to be subleased, finding a subtenant can ease the financial burden on the original tenant. Likewise, if a tenant is able to rent out extra rooms, they can factor that into the money they have available to spend on rent and may be better able to afford the apartment.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


How Does a Sublease Work?

A sublease only works if it is allowed by the landlord. Basically, a sublease creates a new landlord-tenant relationship between the original tenant and the subtenant instead of between the landlord and the subtenant.

The new tenant pays the original tenant and the original tenant pays the landlord. The subtenant must fulfill contractual obligations to the original tenant (who acts as landlord) while the original tenant must abide by the lease agreement made with the landlord.

Recommended: How Much Rent Can I Afford on $60K a Year?

When to Consider Subleasing

When canceling/breaking your lease is incredibly expensive, you’re probably looking at what it takes to sublease your apartment or home. Certain situations may make more sense than others when it comes to subleasing.

•   You are temporarily moving to a different location for work and would like to return to your apartment.

•   You have an opportunity to study or work abroad for a semester.

•   You bought a home and have a home mortgage loan to pay for and may need a subtenant to finish your lease for you.

•   You’re moving for a job opportunity and need a subtenant to finish your lease for you.

•   Your family has increased in size and you need a bigger apartment.

•   A personal situation, such as a sudden need to care for an elderly or disabled family member, makes it necessary to move.

Keep in mind that landlords may not allow subleasing. It’s usually specified in the original rental agreement if subleasing isn’t allowed. If your contract does not forbid it, you’re likely able to sublease your apartment.


💡 Quick Tip: When house hunting, don’t forget to lock in your home mortgage loan rate so there are no surprises if your offer is accepted.

Pros and Cons of Subleasing

Subleasing has some pros and cons to consider.

thumb_up

Pros:

•   The financial burden of a lease you can’t fulfill is eased.

•   You may be able to avoid expensive fees for breaking your lease.

•   You may be able to move to a more suitable housing situation for you if you find a subtenant.

•   You may earn income if your subtenant pays more than you pay to rent the property.

thumb_down

Cons:

•   You may have to act as landlord.

•   You could incur costs for damages caused to the property by the subtenant.

•   You may need to pay rent if the subtenant is unable to.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Programs and Loans

Example of Subleasing an Apartment

Here’s an example of how subleasing an apartment works: Let’s say you take a hard look at whether you should buy or rent, based on your budget, and you decide to buy or build a house. You find your dream home more quickly than you expected. Paying for both rent and a mortgage is costly, so you want to find a subtenant to take your spot at the apartment.

You check your lease and there’s nothing in there that disallows it. You advertise, people call you, you meet, and you eventually find someone you think would be good. You get them to fill out an application and check their income, credit, and background.

Once everything looks good, you have them sign a sublease agreement with you. You move out of the apartment and into your new home. They move in, they pay you, and you pay the landlord. Once your lease is up, assuming you do not renew it, the subtenant will need to work out a new lease with the landlord if they want to stay in the rental.

How to Sublease Your Apartment

When it comes to the nitty-gritty details, the process looks something like this:

  1. Find a subtenant. Since you’re assuming the role of landlord, you’ll want to advertise and vet the subtenant fully. A landlord will often complete a background check, credit check, and income verification on a potential tenant — you should do the same with your subtenant.
  2. Sign a sublease. Creating a sublease that protects you is key. You’re still responsible for the lease agreement you signed with the landlord, so you’ll need to be as specific as possible about what the situation and rights of the sublease entail.
  3. Collect rent from the subtenant. Now that you have a subtenant, you’ll need to collect rent from them and pay your landlord. You’re still responsible for filling the terms of your original lease, after all.
  4. Continue paying rent to the landlord as per the original lease agreement. As the primary tenant, you’re responsible for rent to the landlord. If your subtenant doesn’t pay it, you may need to figure out a way to pay the landlord so you’re not in breach of your contract.
  5. When your lease and contract ends, the subtenancy will end. The subtenant will no longer have any rights once your lease ends. In apartment complexes, it’s common for the subtenant to apply for a new lease with the landlord and become the tenant.

Recommended: How to Rent an Apartment with No Credit

Tips to Subleasing an Apartment Your First Time

Subleasing an apartment isn’t easy, but it may be the right choice to allow you to move on. If it’s your first time, you’ll want to keep these things in mind:

•   Make sure subleasing is allowed in your lease agreement. The last thing you want is to breach your contract. That gives your landlord justification for keeping your deposit and pursuing legal action against you. While this sounds extreme, it’s also not outside the realm of possibility.

•   Screen your subtenant carefully. Since you’re acting as landlord, you’ll want to ensure the subtenant is able to pay and maintain the property. Consider running a background check and credit check, and verifying income. Don’t go off your gut — every rookie makes this mistake — but instead, verify the information the prospective tenant gives you. A good subtenant will make your life 100% easier.

•   Get a professional to create a sublease contract. The contract between you and your subtenant should be strong, or you open yourself up to legal and financial trouble. A professional can help. Some items that may need to be included in the sublease are:

◦   Name of the sublessor

◦   Name of the sublessee

◦   Location of the property

◦   Beginning and end dates of the sublease

◦   Rent and deposit amounts

◦   Due date of rent

◦   Terms and conditions of the original lease

◦   The document should be signed by both parties and possibly by the landlord if it is required



💡 Quick Tip: Your parents or grandparents probably got mortgages for 30 years. But these days, you can get them for 20, 15, or 10 years — and pay less interest over the life of the loan.

The Takeaway

Subleasing can help you cover the cost of a lease you need to get out of, but it’s not easy and it’s not without risk. Even if you do a great job finding and screening the new tenant, there’s no guarantee they will pay and keep the property in tip-top shape. But it’s also possible you’ll find a great subtenant and that will help you get to the next stage of your life, whether it’s moving in with your partner or buying your first home.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.


SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

What is the difference between a lease and sublease?

A lease is a legal contract that grants rental rights for a tenant directly with the landlord. A sublease is a contract between the initial tenant and a second tenant.

Is subleasing easier?

With subleasing, you take on the role of landlord with a new tenant while maintaining a contract with your landlord, so it’s not an easy path. You collect rent from the subtenant and pay the landlord. Along with this, you assume the risk of another tenant damaging the property or not paying.

How does subleasing work in California?

In California, you can’t sublease legally without your landlord’s written permission. First, you’ll want to check your lease agreement to make sure subleasing is permitted. Then, if it is allowed, you’ll still need to get written consent from your landlord before subleasing.


Photo credit: iStock/StockRocket

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.



*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

This article is not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for advice.

SOHL-Q325-016

Read more

What Is a Home Title Policy and How Does It Work?

A home title policy — also called title insurance — protects homeowners or lenders (depending on the type of policy) from problems stemming from title defects. Title insurance allows for a secure transfer of ownership from one party to another.

To address top questions surrounding home title policies, we’ve compiled this guide. You’ll learn:

•   What is title insurance for a home?

•   How does it work?

•   What are common title issues?

•   What does the home title policy cover?

•   What are the different types of home title policies?

By the end, you may still not be thrilled to pay this additional cost at closing, but you may understand better what it protects.

Key Points

•   A home title policy is an insurance policy that protects against title defects and allows for secure transfer of ownership.

•   Title issues can include existing mortgages, undisclosed heirs, tax or construction liens, property line disputes, and errors in public records.

•   The policy has two parts: a title search, with the title company looking through public records for defects, and policy issuance.

•   Lender’s title insurance protects the lender from losses due to title issues, while owner’s title insurance protects the homeowner’s equity.

•   Title insurance is a one-time cost paid during closing, unlike other types of insurance that require annual renewal.

What Is a Home Title Policy?

A title policy on a home is an insurance policy that protects against title defects. Title issues aren’t common, but when they occur, the amount of money involved can be massive. Home title policies are required by lenders to protect their investment in your property. That’s right, just like mortgage insurance, it’s not really for you. In fact, these policies are also called lender’s title insurance policies.

Confusingly, you can also buy a home title policy that provides protection for you: This is called an owner’s title insurance policy. If you want to be completely protected as a homebuyer, you need to purchase both.

What could go wrong that necessitates this layer of insurance? If, for example, the seller didn’t have the full right to sell the property because there was another property owner and the title company missed this in its title report, the title company is responsible for the error. The title company could pay for litigation costs or payouts for property owners.

Title issues that could potentially arise include:

•   Existing mortgages

•   Undisclosed heirs that have claims on the property

•   Tax or construction liens

•   Property line disputes

•   Judgments involving the property, such as in the case of a divorce

•   Deeds, wills, or trusts with errors

•   Easements or encroachments that may restrict access and/or devalue the property

•   Notary mistakes

•   Errors in public records

•   Fraud and forgeries


💡 Quick Tip: Thinking of using a mortgage broker? That person will try to help you save money by finding the best loan offers you are eligible for. But if you deal directly with an online mortgage lender, you won’t have to pay a mortgage broker’s commission, which is usually based on the mortgage amount.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


How Does a Home Title Policy Work?

There are two parts to a home title policy: a title search and a policy issuance. After real estate purchase contracts are written and the property is in escrow, homeowners select a title company to conduct a title search.

In the title search, the title company looks through public records for defects (or problems, like those listed previously). If the search turns up a mortgage lien issue, judgment, or other issue, it will need to be addressed before ownership can be transferred.

If the title search hasn’t revealed any issues, the title company will issue the policy when the transfer of ownership is recorded. The borrower pays a one-time fee for the home title policy in their closing costs.

Recommended: What Is Escrow?

What Does the Home Title Policy Cover?

The title search helps eliminate risk, but it’s still a possibility that title problems can arise. That’s where the title policy for a home comes in. After the policy has been issued, should any additional items come up, the title company will litigate those issues for the benefit of the lender — but only up to the amount of the loan. As the loan balance decreases, so does the amount of home title insurance coverage.

One important thing to note is the home title policy that you are usually required to get is a lender’s title insurance policy. What this means is the lender is protected against legal claims against the home. The borrower’s claim to the home — their equity — is not protected unless the borrower also purchases an owner’s title policy.

💡 Quick Tip: To see a house in person, particularly in a tight or expensive market, you may need to show the real estate agent proof that you’re preapproved for a mortgage. SoFi’s online application makes the process simple.

Home Title Policy Requirements

Home title policies aren’t required by a governing body like a city or state — they’re required by the lender. When a borrower seeks funds for a home mortgage loan, the lender has certain requirements that the borrower must meet in order for it to issue that mortgage. One of these is a lender’s home title insurance policy. Borrowers must pay for a home title policy in order to close the loan. Lenders want to make sure the property the borrower selected can legally be bought and sold and their investment is protected.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Pros and Cons of a Home Title Policy

It’s worth summing up the benefits and drawbacks of a home title policy.

Pros

Cons

The title search can reveal title defects before you close on a home. Lender’s home title policies are required.
Lender’s title insurance can pay for litigation and other costs up to the amount of the mortgage if there is an issue. They’re expensive.
Owner’s title insurance can protect the homeowner’s equity in the home. If it’s a lender’s home title policy only, it won’t protect the equity in your home.

When buying a home, you’ll encounter lots of different types of insurance. It’s worth taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the definitions.

Types of Home Title Policies

As noted above, home title policies come in two types: lender’s title insurance and owner’s title insurance.

Lender’s home title policies protect the lender from losses that come from title issues or defects. If title issues arise, the title company will cover losses or litigate for the lender up to the amount of the mortgage.

Owner’s home title policies protect the amount of equity an owner has in the home. If someone has a claim or brings suit against the title of the home, it is possible that an uninsured homeowner could lose the amount of equity they have in their home.

Fees for these policies vary widely by state. But for a typical home valued at around $400,000, you can expect to pay about $3,000 to purchase both types of title insurance and pay for title fees. Fortunately, this is a one-time cost — unlike other types of homeowners insurance you might buy, you won’t have to renew your title insurance every year.

The Takeaway

It’s not exciting to pay for a home title policy, but the expense is more palatable once you understand what it protects. If you purchase both lender’s and owner’s home title policies, you’ll be well protected in the event of an unexpected claim or ownership dispute on your new home.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

Is it worth shopping around for title insurance?

Title insurance can be costly so it is worth it to shop around. The insurer your lender typically uses might be an affiliate. So there could be a financial benefit to your lender if you use their partner company, but that doesn’t mean there will be a financial benefit to you. Comparison shopping could save you money.

What is the disadvantage of title insurance?

The chief disadvantage of title insurance is its cost, and the fact that it is usually required by a lender. Beyond that, keep in mind that lender’s title insurance only covers the lender in the event of a title problem — it doesn’t protect the equity that you have in the home. For that, you would also need an owner’s title insurance policy.

What is the difference between title and mortgage insurance?

Lender’s title insurance, which is paid for by the borrower, protects the lender in the event that a title dispute arises on the property. Mortgage insurance protects the lender in the event that the borrower defaults on the loan.


Photo credit: iStock/Wasan Tita


*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

SOHL-Q325-014

Read more

How Much Will a $400K Mortgage Cost Per Month?

For most Americans, mortgages are a necessary part of life. Without them, we couldn’t afford the homes where we start a life and perhaps a family. To pay for that cost, most of us need a mortgage.

However, the cost of a mortgage goes well beyond the amount of the loan. There are both upfront and ongoing costs that will factor into the cost of the mortgage. In this article, we will look closer at a $400,000 mortgage and what the monthly cost might look like.

Key Points

•   The monthly cost of a $400,000 mortgage depends on factors like interest rate, loan term, and down payment.

•   Using a mortgage calculator can help you estimate monthly payments and determine affordability.

•   Factors like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and private mortgage insurance (PMI) can also affect the overall cost.

•   It’s important to consider your budget and financial goals when determining the affordability of a mortgage.

•   Working with a lender or mortgage professional can provide personalized guidance and help you understand the costs involved.

Total Cost of a $400K Mortgage

To determine the total cost of a $400,000 mortgage, we must consider more than just the $400K price tag. Upfront and ongoing costs are involved, and they are factors in what you ultimately pay.


💡 Quick Tip: SoFi’s Lock and Look + feature allows you to lock in a low mortgage financing rate for up to 90 days while you search for the perfect place to call home.

First-time homebuyers can
prequalify for a SoFi mortgage loan,
with as little as 3% down.

Questions? Call (888)-541-0398.


Upfront Costs

There are several upfront costs related to your mortgage. Common upfront costs include:

•   Closing costs: From mortgage origination fees and application fees to home inspection and appraisal, you must pay closing costs upfront. These are generally equal to 2% to 5% of the home purchase price.

•   Down payment: Different mortgage types have different down payment requirements. However, depending on the mortgage type, you might be able to put as little as 3% down. First-time homebuyers can sometimes put less down than repeat buyers.

•   Property taxes: You may have to pay at least some money toward property taxes at the outset. For example, you might be required to pay six months’ property taxes.

Long-Term Costs

Long-term costs will likely be the largest cost associated with your home purchase. Here are some long-term costs to consider:

•   Mortgage payments: This is the monthly payment against the loan that financed the home purchase.

•   Home maintenance: Homeowners often do work on their homes, from the purely aesthetic to the absolutely necessary. However, these projects can be costly.

•   Property taxes: In most states, you must pay property taxes to your state or municipality. Property taxes can run into the thousands per year.

•   Homeowners insurance: Homeowners insurance isn’t a huge expense, relatively speaking. But the average cost of Progressive’s homeowners policy is between about $91 and $279 per month.

Estimated Monthly Payments on a $400K Mortgage

The monthly payment on a $400K mortgage won’t always be the same. Certain factors like the down payment, annual percentage rate (APR), and term will affect how much you pay per month.

For instance, suppose you have a fixed 30-year $400K mortgage at 6.50% APR. In this case, your monthly payment would be $2,528. If you have a fixed 15-year $400K mortgage at 6.5% APR, your monthly cost would be $3,484. Keep in mind that these estimates don’t include escrow costs. There are also different types of mortgages, such as fixed and adjustable-rate. Your loan repayment may vary significantly depending on the type.

Monthly Payment Breakdown by APR and Term

Certain factors affect how much you pay per month on your mortgage. The biggest factors are typically your APR and mortgage term. Generally, a higher APR increases your monthly payment, as does a shorter repayment term. Use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payment. Here are a few examples of how these calculations may vary depending on the APR and term:

Interest rate

15-year term

30-year term

5.00% $3,163 $2,147
5.50% $3,268 $2,271
6.00% $3,375 $2,398
6.50% $3,484 $2,528
7.00% $3,595 $2,661
7.50% $3,709 $2,797
8.00% $3,823 $2,935
8.50% $3,939 $3,076
9.00% $4,057 $3,218

How Much Interest Is Accrued on a $400K Mortgage?

As mentioned, the interest accrued on a $400,000 mortgage depends on several factors. However, the most important are the mortgage term and the APR. Generally, a shorter repayment term will result in higher monthly payments but less interest overall. For example, when comparing a 15-year vs. 30-year mortgage, we see that the 15-year mortgage results in less interest, despite higher monthly payments.

Fifteen-year mortgages often have lower APRs than 30-year mortgages as well. A lower APR also means you pay less interest. However, 15-year mortgages typically have much higher monthly payments than 30-year mortgages.


💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better loan terms you’ll be offered. One way to improve your ratio is to increase your income (hello, side hustle!). Another way is to consolidate your debt and lower your monthly debt payments.

$400K Mortgage Amortization Breakdown

Once approved for a fixed-rate mortgage, you typically pay the same amount each month. However, most of the money you pay will go toward interest for the first few years. Eventually, you can expect to pay more toward the principal than interest. For instance, here is an example of a 30-year $400,000 mortgage with a 7.00% APR:

Year

Beginning balance

Interest paid

Principal paid

Principal paid

1 $400,000.00 $27,871.28 $4,063.24 $395,936.76
2 $395,936.76 $27,577.55 $4,356.97 $391,579.79
3 $391,579.79 $27,262.58 $4,671.94 $386,907.85
4 $386,907.85 $26,924.85 $5,009.67 $381,898.18
5 $381,898.18 $26,562.70 $5,371.82 $376,526.36
6 $376,526.36 $26,174.37 $5,760.15 $370,766.21
7 $370,766.21 $25,757.97 $6,176.55 $364,589.66
8 $364,589.66 $25,311.46 $6,623.06 $357,966.60
9 $357,966.60 $24,832.68 $7,101.84 $350,864.76
10 $350,864.76 $24,319.29 $7,615.23 $343,249.53
11 $343,249.53 $23,768.78 $8,165.74 $335,083.80
12 $335,083.80 $23,178.48 $8,756.04 $326,327.76
13 $326,327.76 $22,545.51 $9,389.01 $316,938.75
14 $316,938.75 $21,866.78 $10,067.74 $306,871.01
15 $306,871.01 $21,138.98 $10,795.54 $296,075.46
16 $296,075.46 $20,358.57 $11,575.95 $284,499.51
17 $284,499.51 $19,521.74 $12,412.78 $272,086.73
18 $272,086.73 $18,624.42 $13,310.10 $258,776.63
19 $258,776.63 $17,662.23 $14,272.29 $244,504.35
20 $244,504.35 $16,630.49 $15,304.03 $229,200.31
21 $229,200.31 $15,524.16 $16,410.36 $212,789.95
22 $212,789.95 $14,337.85 $17,596.67 $195,193.28
23 $195,193.28 $13,065.79 $18,868.73 $176,324.55
24 $176,324.55 $11,701.76 $20,232.76 $156,091.79
25 $156,091.79 $10,239.14 $21,695.38 $134,396.41
26 $134,396.41 $8,670.78 $23,263.74 $111,132.66
27 $111,132.66 $6,989.04 $24,945.48 $86,187.18
28 $86,187.18 $5,185.73 $26,748.79 $59,438.39
29 $59,438.39 $3,252.05 $28,682.47 $30,755.92
30 $30,755.92 $1,178.60 $30,755.92 $0.00

What Is Required to Get a $400K Mortgage?

Getting a $400K mortgage usually requires sufficient income and a large enough down payment. The average down payment is 18% (and the median is just 9% for first-time buyers). If your income is on the low end, you might be able to make up for it with a larger down payment. Likewise, having a higher income may help if your down payment is small.

It may help to use a housing affordability calculator. This will give you a rough estimate of what you can afford based on your income, monthly expenses, and your down payment.

Your credit score can also be important when applying for a $400K mortgage. Credit scores help lenders determine how likely you are to repay your debts. Thus, a higher credit score can increase your approval odds. There is no definite rule, but a credit score of at least 620 can help when applying for a conventional loan. If you want to learn more about this process, there are mortgage resources that can help.

“If you have multiple debts, you want to make your minimum payments so you don’t hurt your credit score,” Kendall Meade, a Certified Financial Planner at SoFi said. “If you have cash left over after that, you should develop a strategy for which debts to pay off first,” she suggested.

How Much House Can You Afford Quiz

The Takeaway

Buying a home is the largest purchase most Americans make in their lifetime. Many costs come with buying a home, including upfront costs like a down payment and ongoing costs like monthly mortgage payments. Your mortgage payment is likely to be the largest monthly expense you have, and it can vary widely depending on the APR and mortgage term. On a $400,000 mortgage, the monthly payment could range from $2,147 to $4,057, as you can see above.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.


SoFi Mortgages: simple, smart, and so affordable.

FAQ

How much house can I afford on a $120,000 salary?

How much house you can afford depends on several factors, and salary is just one of them. You must also consider your mortgage interest rate, down payment, and other debts. If you have saved $25,000 for a down payment, have an interest rate of 7.12%, and pay $1,225 per month on debt (not including rent), you may be able to afford a home up to about $441,000.

How do you calculate monthly mortgage payments?

To calculate monthly mortgage payments, you must know the loan amount, interest rate, and loan term. The easiest way to calculate your payment is to plug these numbers into an online mortgage calculator.

What is the average total monthly mortgage payment?

The national median monthly mortgage payment in the United States is $2,211 as of May 2026, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association.


Photo credit: iStock/MihailDechev


*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.

+Lock and Look program: Terms and conditions apply. Applies to conforming, FHA, and VA purchase loans only. Rate will lock for 91 calendar days at the time of pre-approval. An executed purchase contract is required within 60 days of your initial rate lock. If current market pricing improves by 0.25 percentage points or more from the original locked rate, you may request your loan officer to review your loan application to determine if you qualify for a one-time float down. SoFi reserves the right to change or terminate this offer at any time with or without notice to you.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.


Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOHL-Q325-007

Read more
TLS 1.2 Encrypted
Equal Housing Lender