Tax Incentives
The IRS provides married taxpayers with two options when it comes to filing taxes: file a joint tax return or file as separate but married. In general, filing separately provides fewer tax benefits than filing jointly. For example, eligibility for Education Tax incentives like the Tuition and Fees Deduction or the Student Loan Interest Deduction are not available for married couples that file separately. For more information about Education Tax Incentives, review IRS Publication 970.
Although filing jointly generally offers more tax deductions, this status may also increase the amount of the required student loan payment under some income-driven plans. Deciding how to file taxes has a far-reaching impact (greater than discussed here). It is wise to enlist the advice of a certified accountant or professional tax preparer to help provide clarity on the pros and cons of each tax filing status.
Repayment Options
Federal student loans offer flexibility during repayment by allowing borrowers to either postpone loan repayment during residency with a mandatory residency forbearance or to repay during residency with one of the various repayment plans. Your spouse’s income may be taken into consideration when determining your monthly loan payment; it depends on the repayment plan you choose. Information about all the repayment plan options can be found within the Repayment Plans for Federal Student Loans fact sheet and for answers to your questions about specific monthly payment amounts and plans, or to determine how your spouse’s income may impact your monthly payment, contact your loan servicer.
Other repayment tips and strategies to consider include:
- Aggressively repay the most expensive debt first. After making the required minimum payments on all loans, focus additional payments on high interest rate debt.
- Unsubsidized loans are always accruing interest. Reduce the cost by paying some or all of the interest as it accumulates during medical school and residency.
- Develop a realistic budget. Manage your money during the lean years so that you can repay your debt faster.
- Understand and protect your credit. Your credit score will determine your eligibility for consumer loans and other financial products, as well as the interest rate you are offered for various loans. Therefore, it is important to maintain good credit and protect yourself from identity theft.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Considerations
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is used to determine eligibility for aid. Whether married or single, this step in the financial aid application process must be completed by anyone seeking federal financial aid assistance.
For married couples, the FAFSA continues to be required every year for each student. As a married student, your parent’s financial information is no longer required on the FAFSA; however, a medical school may still ask for this information to determine eligibility for other aid, such as institutional loans, grants, or scholarships. These same considerations are likely necessary for any other applications required by the school when applying for financial aid.
