Student Loan Debt Brings New Meaning to Spousal Support

The term “spousal support” takes on an unanticipated meaning for those marrying someone who is shouldering student loan debt. Upon taking their vows, unsuspecting spouses often discover that their spouse may have failed to disclose all of their prior debts. Failure to disclose the amount of student loan debt one faces may or may not be inadvertent. Student loan debt is certainly not an attractive topic and it is obvious why one may choose to avoid discussing that subject matter.

According to the United States Department of Education, the average amount of American student loan debt continues to rise. The average student loan debt amount already totals over $30,000.00. This amount skyrockets for students who choose to attend graduate programs. Many couples who attended graduate programs are currently struggling to pay back six figures in student loan debt. What these borrowers and their unsuspecting new spouses often do not realize is that once the marriage commences, the new spouse may be forever wed to his or her spouse’s student loan debt.

Student Loan Law Group realizes that student loan debt is a massive burden and that many Americans simply cannot afford to live and support a family while maintaining their monthly student loan payments. Student Loan Law Group helps borrowers and spouses of borrowers analyze their available options. Many borrowers are unaware of the repayment plans and consolidation paths that exist to help manage their student loan debt. Borrowers who fail to seek help once they begin struggling with their student loan payments often find themselves in default for failure to keep up with their payments. When a married borrower has student loans in default status, both spouses can be penalized.

For example, if a wife’s student loans are in default, the federal government may seize her husband’s tax returns in order to recoup the outstanding balance. In other words, both spouses are responsible for the student loan debt of one spouse. Student Loan Law Group realizes the harsh impact households face when the income of one spouse suffers. Student Loan Law Group’s attorneys have rigorously studied laws relating to student loans and debtors’ rights. Attorneys with Student Loan Law Group may defend borrowers in default and spouses of borrowers in default. Borrowers who have experienced difficulties with their student loans or received notice of default should contact Student Loan Law Group immediately to determine their options.