For Millions of Student-Loan Borrowers It's Time to Pay

The Journal discusses the end of pandemic-era freezes on federal student loan payments and the consequences for borrowers. Millions of Americans are in debt to the government for student loans, and many are now facing collections, wage garnishment, and loss of tax refunds and federal benefits if they don't pay. The episode explores the history of federal student loans, featuring the story of Kristen, who highlights the burden of student debt and the impact of the payment pause. The conversation also covers the confusion surrounding the repayment restart, the impact of missed payments on credit scores, and potential economic consequences as borrowers redirect spending towards loan payments. The podcast advises recent graduates to stay informed about policy changes and manage their finances proactively.