Resources | Earnest | Guides, Calculators, and Tools | Earnest
Earnest Resource Center
What can we help you with?
We're here with tools and guidance to help support your financial goals
Lower student loan payments →
Pay off high-interest debt →
Plan for school →
)
)
Lower your monthly student loan payments
See what refinancing could do for you
If you qualify for a lower interest rate, you could pay less each month while also making meaningful progress in paying it off
)
Is it a good idea for you to refinance?
Refinancing could be the key to becoming debt-free faster, or make monthly payments more affordable—but there are other factors to consider. Our guide helps you understand what student loan refinance is, how it works, and how to find out if it’s right for you.
)
From the Earnest Blog
Things to consider before refinancing
)
How to Refinance Student Loans in 2026: The Complete Guide 19 min read
)
The new dating dealbreakers: What debt signals about compatibility in 2026 6 mins
)
Student Loan Consolidation in 2026: Everything You Need to Know 13 min read
Checking your rate takes minutes, and could lead to real savings
No credit impact, no catch
Pay off high-interest debt
Start with a plan to take control of your debt
Get a free personalized plan with straightforward steps to pay it off and provide key insights like which debt to pay off first, strategies to help you achieve your financial goals, and more.
Learn more about what debt-to-income is and how it could be affecting your path to wealth
)
Tackle high interest rates
Average credit card rates make it difficult to get out from under high-interest debt. A personal loan can help you consolidate multiple payments into one, at a potentially lower rate. Even small decreases in your interest rate could mean thousands in savings over the life of the loan.
)
How does debt consolidation actually work?
Debt consolidation combines multiple high-interest debts into one. This is done by taking out a new loan to pay off all your existing debts.
)
What can a personal loan be used for?
In addition to consolidating credit card debt, personal loans can be used for:
- Home improvement projects
- Large purchases
- Emergency expenses
- And more
)
Get a personal loan that supports your goals
Checking your rate takes minutes—no credit impact, zero fees.
Plan for school
Estimate the cost of an Earnest Student Loan
Enter your desired loan details and we'll estimate your monthly payment
)
From the Earnest Blog
What to know before you borrow
)
How to Qualify for Student Loans 4 min read
)
When to start looking into student loans 7 min read
)
What Happens When You Run Out of Money for College (and How You Can Avoid It) 7 min read
Federal vs. Private Student Loans: What’s the difference?
Pros of private student loans
- Higher loan amounts
- Lower rates based on creditworthiness
- Different loan type available
- Available to international students
Cons of private student loans
- Stricter requirements
- Fewer repayment options
- Not required to have hardship options
Pros of federal student loans
- No credit check
- Variety of repayment plans
- Fixed interest rates
- Deferment and forbearance options
Cons of federal student loans
- Loan limits
- Direct subsidized loans are based on financial need
- No reward for good credit
What to look for in a private student loan
Before applying, here are some things to consider:
- Interest rate type: Fixed vs. variable
- Your prequalified rate
- Annual percentage rate (APR)
- Available loan terms
- Ability to add a cosigner
)
Ready to apply?
Check your eligibility in minutes, no credit impact.
Disclosures
Disclaimer: The resources provided present personal finance educational information, and are not intended to provide legal, financial, or tax advice.