Getting Through the Holidays With Student Loans

Jenna Franco
Nov 26
2 min read

The holidays are here. Travel, gifts, family gatherings, and more spending than usual. For millions of federal student loan borrowers, this season can also bring stress, especially with payments, late notices, or uncertainty about what you qualify for.

The good news? A few simple steps now can make your January far easier. Here’s how to stay in control this holiday season and start the new year with a clear plan.

1. Get Clear on Your Student Loan Status

Before the holiday rush distracts you, take 10 minutes and check:

Who your servicer is
Whether you’re current, behind, or in default
Your monthly payment amount
Any missed payments or notices

2. Set a Holiday Budget That Protects January

Holiday overspending is one of the biggest reasons borrowers fall behind in the new year.

Avoid the January scramble by:

Setting a firm spending limit
Planning for your January payment first
Choosing lower-cost gift options
Avoiding high-interest credit cards for holiday purchases

3. Review Your Repayment Options Before 2025

Your situation may have changed this year. Your repayment plan should reflect that.

Ask yourself:

Could you qualify for a lower monthly payment?
Is your income different than last year?
Are you behind and unsure what steps to take?
Do you need a plan for loans already in default?

4. If You're Behind, Don’t Wait Until After the Holidays

Collections activity and servicer call volume spike in January. If you’re already behind, now is a good time to get ahead of it. Understanding your status early helps you avoid:

Delinquency getting worse
Default consequences
Tax refund offsets
Wage garnishment

5. Plan Your 2025 Budget With Student Loans in Mind

As you think about your goals for the new year, include your loans in that plan:

Expected monthly payment
Any income changes
Irregular expenses coming up
A small buffer for emergencies

You don’t need to navigate repayment, delinquency, or default alone. Smart Loan Aid provides clear, straightforward guidance to help you understand your federal student loan options and make a confident plan for 2025.

If you’re unsure where you stand—or want help before the holidays get busier, visiting https://SmartLoanAid.com today or give their team a call at (844) 869-5521.

A short conversation can give you the clarity and direction you need to start the new year strong.