What's the Maximum Loan Payment You Can Afford?

If your monthly student-loan payment exceeds the range of loan payments listed below for your annual income, explore a flexible repayment option or loan consolidation.

The following table is based on a rule-of-thumb that student-loan payments should not exceed 8 percent to 10 percent of a borrower's gross monthly payments. Your own maximum-affordable monthly loan payment may differ, especially if you owe other debts or experience other unusual financial circumstances. Regardless of the maximum-affordable payment, you should borrow only what you need to cover your educational expenses.

Your Annual Income Range of Maximum Monthly Loan Payments You Can Afford
$15,000 $100 - $125
$20,000 $133 - $167
$25,000 $167 - $208
$30,000 $200 - $250
$35,000 $233 - $292
$40,000 $267 - $333
$45,000 $300 - $375
$50,000 $333 - $417
$75,000 $500 - $625
$100,000 $667 - $833