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NEW YORK, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Laurel Road: Student loan debt in the United States totals over 1.7 trillion dollars, with almost 44 million borrowers holding federal loans. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is a federal student loan forgiveness program that offers borrowers the opportunity to have their remaining federal student loan balance forgiven after making 120 qualifying monthly payments over the course of 10 years. PSLF requires individuals to be enrolled in an income-driven repayment plan (IDR). IDR programs utilize information such as annual income, which can help stabilize monthly payments, which can be especially important at the outset of careers. But what happens when an enrollee's salary rises? Salary can play an important role in some of the elements of PSLF—including how much borrowers can save.

PSLF requirements

Qualifying for and applying to the PSLF program involves several important steps. Borrowers must: 

• be employed full-time by a US federal, state, local, or tribal government or qualifying not-for-profit organization 
• have Direct Loans (or consolidate other federal student loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan)
• enroll in an income-driven repayment (IDR) plan
• make 120 qualifying payments over 10 years
• submit a complete PSLF application along with the required paperwork

After completing all PSLF requirements, a candidate's remaining Direct Loan balance can be completely forgiven.

Income-driven Repayment Plans 

Borrowers seeking PSLF are required to enroll in an Income-driven Repayment plan. Federal student loan borrowers who are having difficulty with their monthly payments could benefit from IDR as these plans calculate monthly payment amounts based on income and family size - rather than the amount of the loan - which can help make student loan debt more manageable. 

There are four IDR plans available: 

• Income-Based Repayment Plan (IBR)
• Pay As You Earn Repayment Plan (PAYE)
• Revised Pay As You Earn Repayment Plan (REPAYE)
• Income-Contingent Repayment Plan (ICR)

Each plan has its own set of requirements and benefits. Federal student loan recipients must demonstrate financial hardship, such as low income or a high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, in order to qualify.

Payments are typically made over a period of 20 to 25 years, after which any remaining loan balance may be forgiven. 

High earners, IDR payments, and PSLF

There is no maximum income cap in the IDR or PSLF program. If a borrower begins with an income low enough to qualify for an IDR plan but later earns a higher salary, their monthly payments under the IDR plan could increase. They may still be eligible for potential forgiveness through PSLF if they continue to work full-time for a qualifying employer and make the required 120 qualifying payments. However, a high-earning IDR participant may become ineligible for forgiveness if they pay off their student loan before making all 120 qualifying payments. Some borrowers may elect to switch to an IDR program that can give them the lowest monthly payments possible.

Recertification Rules

IDR participants must recertify their eligibility once per year by providing information about their income and family size - even if nothing has changed. IDR plans use that data to recalculate a participant's monthly payment, determining whether it should rise, fall, or remain unchanged.  

Borrowers also have the option to recertify and recalculate their payment at the time a life change occurs, such as the addition of a family member or the loss of a job. Borrowers who recertify late or fail to recertify may face penalties, increased payments, or even termination of their IDR plan.

Other repayment options

An IDR plan may not be right for everyone. Federal student loan recipients can talk to their loan servicer about other options, such as: 

• Standard Repayment Plan: fixed monthly payments for 10 years. 
• Graduated Repayment Plan: begins with lower monthly payments that gradually increase every two years over a 10-year period.
• Extended Repayment Plan: extends a repayment period up to 25 years, with either fixed or graduated payments.
• Consolidation: combines multiple federal student loans into a single loan, with a fixed interest rate and a single monthly payment.
• Deferment or Forbearance: temporarily suspends or reduces student loan payments.

Next steps

With the right qualifications and repayment plan, borrowers interested in PSLF may find the financial relief they need to focus on their personal growth and career development. They should take the time to become familiar with the program's requirements and to comprehend the role that income may play now and in the future. And, of course, they can consult their loan servicer or seek expert guidance to help navigate the process. 

About Laurel Road

Website

Laurel Road began originating student loans in 2013 and has since helped thousands of professionals with undergraduate and postgraduate degrees consolidate and refinance more than $7 billion in federal and private school loans.

Contact Information:
Carolina d'Arbelles-Valle
Senior Public Relations Specialist
[email protected]
(201) 633-2125


Original Source: Laurel Road: Can a High Salary Affect Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?

The survey of 1,000 U.S. students provides insights into FIRE knowledge, usage, money-saving strategies, common sacrifices, and financial worries.

NEW YORK, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE) is a growing trend among young people. Stories of retirement before 30 and achieving financial independence are gaining massive success on social media. In contrast, in real life, students face serious financial difficulties due to student loans, housing costs, etc. 

EduBirdie, an all-in-one website for students, surveyed the actual student's money-saving culture. The study involved 1,000 full-time and part-time students from the United States aged 18 to 44. Ethnicity and spoken languages were not considered factors of differentiation. The survey was conducted among two groups: students who know and practice the FIRE approach and those who do not.

"Budgeting is always on the agenda for students, as they might be affected by financial crises more than others. Financial stress can significantly impact their academic performance, personal life, and, most importantly, mental health. We at EduBirdie believe it is crucial to discuss personal finances to have generations that genuinely know financial independence." — Avery Morgan, Chief Communications Officer at EduBirdie.

Results showed that most students surveyed know the FIRE approach and actively practice it. 71% of the surveyed students know the movement and either actively practice it or learn where to start. 14% of students who know about the approach do not like it, and 11% need to understand what FIRE is. Surprisingly, 4% of students who did not know about the movement googled it and became interested in early retirement. When broken down by age, most students who knew about the FIRE approach were between 18 and 24 years old, and 50% of them were already learning to take their first steps in the FIRE approach.

21.92% of students are ready to sacrifice their dream job, 19.18% - buying a car, and 17.81% - traveling to retire earlier. Interestingly, 30% of respondents aged 18-24 would better never have children to enjoy an early retirement.

The survey also revealed alternative and creative ways to cut costs. These include staying sober, learning to sew clothes, riding a bike instead of a car, and taking up cost-saving hobbies such as cooking, gardening, and DIY. 

Financial insecurity is becoming a growing concern. When asked what worries students most financially, 18.15% of respondents said rent, 13.90% gas prices, 13.13% mentioned health and medical problems, 12.74% were worried about student loans and 11.97% about job loss. 

The most common consequences of financial stress experienced by students were anxiety and depression (23.68%), sleep problems (19.30%), mood swings (17.54%), and fatigue (15.79%). In comparison, only 1.32% of respondents did not feel the harmful effects of financial stress. 

For more information on the study and its findings, visit EduBirdie.

Contact Information:
Olena Polotniana
Communications Manager
[email protected]


Original Source: EduBirdie's Survey Reveals Insights Into the FIRE Movement and Money-Saving Techniques Among Students

Top OBGYN and Women's Health Expert on Women's Health Month

ATLANTA, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - May is Women's Health Month, the annual observance designed to focus attention on the health issues facing women. Dr.  Jessica Shepherd, MD, shares tips for achieving better health. Dr. Shepherd suggests women should take time to focus more on their own personal health and needs. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services points out that heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and autoimmune diseases are the top five health issues facing women.

TOPIC THAT MANY WOMEN ARE SHY ABOUT

Nearly two-thirds of U.S. women experience bladder leaks, that is 78 million, but the subject has always been taboo. It is time to talk about it by taking control and shattering the stereotypes. FitRight Fresh Start with Arm & Hammer is a complete bladder control solution created for women, by women, to deliver a one-of-a-kind wetness and odor control that every woman deserves. It includes a complete line of discrete bladder control products with the unique four-in-one support needed to feel clean, fresh, and free. FitRight Fresh Start is the only brand with the power of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda to control odor. For more information, visit www.fitrightfreshstart.com.

RELIEF FOR MUSCLE ACHES AND PAINS

Self-care and exercise are so important for maintaining mental and physical health, especially for women. Dr. Shepherd recommends Arnicare Gel by Boiron. Whether playing sports, exercising, doing yard work or home improvement projects, Arnicare really can help with pain relief. The non-greasy gel is powered by the Arnica plant and is ideal for women of all ages whose active lifestyles can lead to muscle aches, stiffness, swelling or bruising. The unscented formula is quickly absorbed into the skin and will, "help you to feel better faster." For more information, visit www.arnicare.com.

SUGGESTIONS FOR OVERALL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Many people may have heard of the gut microbiome, but women, also, have a vaginal microbiome which plays an important role in maintaining pH, promoting yeast balance and supporting feminine health. When the balance of bacteria in the microbiome is off, some women may feel it. Align Women's Dual Action provides a unique probiotic strain to help relieve occasional bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort, as well as two feminine health strains to help support vaginal health. Align Women's Dual Action also contains botanical chaste tree to promote monthly mood balance. For more information, visit www.alignprobiotics.com.

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About TipsOnTV 

TipsOnTV is a lifestyle blog featuring content as seen on national and local media outlets. Expert hosts share advice for viewers, listeners, and readers. TipsOnTV covers a variety of topics, including food, entertaining, personal finance, technology, travel, health, lifestyle and more.

Contact Information:
R E
[email protected]


Original Source: Dr. Jessica Shepherd Shares Tips to Kick Start Health and Wellness on TipsOnTV

One of the Nation's Top Pet Experts talks about National Pet Month

ATLANTA, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - The author of PAMPERED PETS ON BUDGET, Kristen Levine is always working to make the world a better place for pets. The renowned Pet Living Expert is renowned for sharing her innovative ways to take care of furry family members.

STAY ON BUDGET

Before buying any pet supplies, start by visiting Slickdeals, a community of millions of real people working together to save. It is all about shoppers helping shoppers. Slickdeals has 12 million shoppers vetting and voting up the very best deals from everyone's favorite retailers, with deals on everything from grooming supplies and pet toys to a new camera to photograph those four-legged pals. At Slickdeals.com, pet owners know they are getting the best product at the best price.

PET-FRIENDLY HOME

For pet owners who could use an extra hand around the house, the iRobot Roomba Combo j7+ Robot Vacuum and Mop is just what anyone who has a pet needs. Powered by iRobot OS home intelligence, the Combo j7+ can detect and avoid floor obstacles like cords, shoes, pet bowls and even solid pet waste. Perfect for homes with a mix of floor types, it seamlessly cleans carpet and hard floors in the same cleaning job without any intervention. Unlike other 2-in-1 robots, the Roomba Combo j7+ has an auto-retracting mop pad that lifts when on carpet, preventing wet messes. Visit www.irobot.com

KEEPING PETS HEALTHY

Keep pets healthy with Project Watson. Made with naturally inspired, high-quality ingredients, Project Watson healthcare for dogs offers a full line of products that target the often-overlooked areas of a dog's health: the eyes and ears. When Watson was rescued, his owner found it difficult to find the right products to help protect his eyes and ears from irritation and excess build-up. This led to the creation of the new line that features wipes, washes and supplements. Project Watson healthcare for dogs builds on Bausch and Lomb's rich history in canine surgical solutions. Visit www.bausch.com

VETERINARY CARE

Regular high-quality care is so important. Banfield's Optimum Wellness Plans, or OWPs, make pet care easy with 24/7 access to veterinarians via their telehealth service, Vet Chat. It is a smart package of preventive care services including unlimited office visits, vaccinations, dental cleanings and more, all at an affordable price. This is not insurance; rather, it is for the predictable or preventive aspects of veterinary care, while pet insurance can help cover the unforeseen or emergency aspects of pet ownership. Think of Banfield's OWPs as a monthly subscription for pet's preventive care needs. Visit www.banfield.com

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About TipsOnTV 

TipsOnTV covers a variety of topics, including food, entertaining, personal finance, technology, travel, health, lifestyle and more.

Contact Information:
R E
[email protected]


Original Source: Kristen Levine Shares Tips to Keep Pets Happy and Healthy with TipsOnTV

Fertilix\u00ae logo CLERMONT-FERRAND, France, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - According to a recent study by Université Clermont Auvergne researcher...

Affirms commitment to homeowners and the planet Pearl Certification Becomes a Public Benefit Corporation Pearl Certification is advancing the hig...

BOCA RATON, Fla., May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - 4ocean, a purpose-driven B Corp with a mission to end the ocean plastic crisis, in partnership with U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), are pleased to announce the extension of their partnership. The two entities have committed to removing 150,000 pounds of trash from the world's oceans through the 4ocean Pound+ Services, now through 2024. 

4ocean and U.S. Polo Assn.'s partnership began in early 2021 and successfully led to the removal of 60,000 pounds of plastic from the ocean, rivers, and coastlines. The two organizations worked together during that time towards ocean-positive sustainability with the help of 88 crew members and seven ocean vessels, with most of the waste being pulled in Indonesia across six specific beaches. This year's goal more than doubles the previous year's accomplishment.

"I'm stoked about the extension of our partnership with U.S. Polo Assn. and their commitment to increasing the amount of trash and plastic they pull," said Alex Schulze, co-founder of 4ocean. "It's inspiring to see a company take such a proactive approach to sustainability that will have a measurable impact on the ocean. U.S. Polo Assn. committing to 2.5 times the amount of trash and plastic they pulled last year is a bold move, and I'm excited to see the results of this initiative."

Schulze added, "We are proud to be part of this effort and look forward to continuing our collaboration with U.S. Polo Assn. and other partners to make a positive impact on our ocean."

This meaningful partnership is a component of U.S. Polo Assn.'s overarching sustainability initiative USPA Life, which works towards improving the impact of our business on the environment. The USPA Life initiative also offers a global and growing selection of apparel, footwear, and accessories with sustainable attributes.

"U.S. Polo Assn. has been taking a global and holistic approach to our long-term sustainability journey with initiatives like our 4ocean partnership and USPA Life," said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global Licensing Inc., which manages the multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. "We have been working diligently to improve our global footprint through products that are better for the environment and through partnerships with organizations like 4ocean that share our mission and vision for a sustainable future."

4ocean was the Official Sustainability Partner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship Final, collecting plastic and trash from the prestigious and sold-out event in April at the USPA National Polo Center. 4ocean also had a series of commercial spots run during the U.S. Open Polo Championship Final on multiple ESPN platforms, bringing awareness to millions of consumers and sports fans. Click here for more information. 

To learn more about the partnership, please visit uspoloassnglobal.com/4ocean. 

About 4ocean 

4ocean is an ocean cleanup company based in Boca Raton, Florida, that's dedicated to ending the ocean plastic crisis. As a Public Benefit Corporation and Certified B Corp, 4ocean harnesses the power of business to fund a global cleanup operation that recovers millions of pounds of plastic and other debris from the world's oceans, rivers, and coastlines each year.

About U.S. Polo Assn. 

U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the nonprofit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States and one of the oldest sports governing bodies, having been founded in 1890. With a multi-billion-dollar global footprint and worldwide distribution through some 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores and thousands of department stores as well as sporting goods channels, independent retailers, and e-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel for men, women, and children, as well as accessories and footwear in more than 190 countries worldwide. U.S. Polo Assn. was named one of the top five sports licensors in 2022, according to License Global. Visit uspoloassnglobal.com and follow @uspoloassn.

Contact Information:
Jonathan Marshall
4ocean PR Specialist
[email protected]

Stacey Kovalsky
Senior Director, Global Communications
[email protected]
+001.561.790.8036


Original Source: 4ocean and U.S. Polo Assn. Renew Global Ocean-Positive Sustainability Partnership Goal to Remove 150,000 Pounds of Trash from World's Oceans

Introducing Positive K9 Training's VIP Program.

MELBOURNE, Australia, May 18, 2023 (Newswire.com) - As security concerns continue to rise in our increasingly complex world, Positive K9 Training, a leading dog training service in Melbourne, is proud to announce its innovative solution: the VIP dog training program. This tailored service promises to enhance not only canine obedience but also residential security, ensuring a safer home environment for all.

A well-trained dog can play a pivotal role in home security, offering an additional layer of protection. "Feeling secure in your own home is paramount," said Chris Loverseed, the Head Trainer at Positive K9 Training. "Our VIP program is meticulously designed to ensure that dogs are trained to become not just loyal companions, but also reliable protectors."

The VIP program is a bespoke service that focuses on sourcing the right dog for clients or assessing the suitability of an existing pet for advanced training. Every dog possesses unique potential, and the experienced team at PK9 is adept at identifying and nurturing the innate protective abilities in each canine.

"Every dog has its distinct traits and behaviours," Chris added. "Our role is to recognise these traits and use them to your advantage, thereby enhancing your security. Our VIP service is tailor-made for your unique situation, focusing on training your dog to align with your specific security needs."

In response to the dynamic nature of security threats, the VIP program offers ongoing support and training to ensure that the dog's skills remain sharp and relevant. Regular progress reports are shared with clients, and they also have direct access to their trainer for swift resolution of any issues, thereby maintaining the efficacy of the training.

Taking the concept of personalised training a notch higher, Positive K9 Training's VIP service introduces the innovative concept of 'concierge dog training.' This comprehensive approach includes one-on-one sessions at the client's home or local surroundings. 

Positive K9 Training stands by its commitment to using positive reinforcement methods, creating a safe and enjoyable learning environment for dogs. This approach is crucial to fostering a strong, respectful bond between dogs and their owners, which in turn enhances the effectiveness of the training.

"Our VIP program goes beyond the realm of traditional dog training," Chris said. "It's about offering a holistic service that not only provides a sense of security but also enhances the bond between you and your dog, bringing peace of mind to dog owners."

For more information about Positive K9 Training's VIP service, to understand how it can enhance your home security, or to book a consultation, visit https://positivek9training.com.au 

About Positive K9 Training:

Led by professional dog trainer Chris Loverseed, Positive K9 Training is a Melbourne-based dog training service committed to providing personalised and effective dog training solutions. With a focus on positive reinforcement techniques, PK9 is passionate about building strong, respectful relationships between dogs and their owners, thereby enhancing the overall quality of their coexistence.

Contact Information:
Chris Loverseed
Owner- Positive K9 Training
[email protected]
0409 759 759


Original Source: Positive K9 Training Launches VIP Dog Training for Personalised Canine Excellence

VANCOUVER, Wash., May 17, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Sinceri Senior Living and its communities have been certified as a Great Place To Work® for the fifth ye...