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This article from Kiplinger Personal Finance provides information on recent government policies and programs related to student loans. It explains that the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a freeze on loan payments and interest, which ended in the fall of 2023. The U.S. Department of Education is providing an "on ramp" period to help borrowers transition out of the payment pause. The article also discusses various debt relief programs proposed by the Biden administration, including automatic forgiveness for borrowers who owe more than they borrowed and expanded eligibility for loan forgiveness programs. It mentions the SAVE plan, an income-driven repayment plan that can lower monthly payments and potentially offer loan forgiveness. The article also provides information on loan consolidation, options for borrowers struggling to make payments, and assistance for Parent PLUS loans. It advises caution when considering refinancing federal loans with private lenders, as it may result in the loss of federal relief options. [Extracted from the article]

Credit reports are increasingly prone to errors, with consumer complaints regarding credit-report issues rising significantly in recent years. Identity theft is a major contributor to these complaints. While credit-repair companies promise to help dispute negative information on credit reports, consumers can actually file disputes themselves for free. However, credit-reporting companies often dismiss legitimate disputes, making it difficult for consumers to rectify errors. It is important for individuals to regularly review their credit reports to catch and address any errors or identity theft before it negatively impacts their financial plans. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Kiplinger Personal Finance discusses the downsides of leasing a car compared to buying one. While leasing may have lower monthly payments, it comes with hidden costs. The average transaction price for a new car has increased significantly in recent years, making buying a new car more expensive. Leasing is on the rise, with about 24% of new cars being leased in early 2024. However, leasing is more expensive in the long term because car payments never end. Leasing also has limitations, as it is mostly limited to new or gently used cars that may not be budget-friendly. Additionally, there are additional costs such as repair fees and penalties for exceeding mileage limits. Leasing may be a better choice for those who like to drive the latest car models and trade up frequently, or for those interested in all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles that qualify for federal clean-vehicle tax credits. To make a car purchase more affordable, buying a used car is recommended, and shopping around for competitive interest rates from local banks and credit unions is advised. [Extracted from the article]

Identity theft protection services can be helpful in spotting red flags quickly, but they do not prevent criminals from targeting individuals. These services typically offer account monitoring, alerts, and restoration support after identity theft has occurred. However, they can create a false sense of security and may lead users to neglect basic cyber hygiene practices. While some paid ID protection plans offer valuable features such as VPNs and password managers, others may include flashy but ineffective features like identity theft insurance. It is important to carefully evaluate the features and effectiveness of different plans before subscribing. Free alternatives, such as services provided by financial institutions or through employers, may already be available to individuals. Taking preventative actions, such as using unique passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and installing software updates, is crucial in protecting one's identity. [Extracted from the article]