As if paying down your student loans isn’t great enough,

As if paying down your student loans isn’t great enough, you can also help people while doing it. Organizations such as AmeriCorps, VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America), Peace Corps, Teach for America, and National Health Service Corps all offer some type of student loan forgiveness or reimbursements for your dedicated service.

New to the volunteer scene are Zerobound and SponsorChange. Both these organizations connect organizations in need of volunteers in exchange for money towards your student loan debts. Just like careers that offer loan forgiveness, there’s plenty of stipulations to earn this. Depending the program, only certain loans may qualify. As with any loan forgiveness, be sure to fully understand what’s required of you.Big Boss vote

Many times, loan forgiveness is offered

Many times, loan forgiveness is offered when a certain area, such as a low-income area or rural community, is lacking a specific profession. Some of these jobs include teacher, law enforcement, doctors, lawyers, dentists, social workers, firefighters, speech pathologists, nurses, psychiatrists, and more. Keep in mind many of these opportunities come with many requirements and stipulations. You may have to sign a contract to work for a designated amount of time or live in a certain area. If you don’t complete your contract, you may be asked to return any student loan assistance you have received or not get that assistance at all.

The main point of getting that ridiculously priced degree

The main point of getting that ridiculously priced degree was a job, right? So why not get a job that helps reduce your debt while still earning an income? In an effort to attract the best talent, some employers are now offering help with student loan payuments as a standard workplace benefit, along with a 401(k) and more typical perks.

Depending on your industry, you can also search for a job eligible for studentloan forgiveness. If you work in a public service career — at a nonprofit organization or in local government, for example — you can usually get loan forgiveness after making payments for 10 consecutive years.

Deduct your student loan interest.

 Deduct your student loan interest.
Once tax season rolls around, don’t forget to deduct your student loan interest. You can reduce your taxable income by up to $2,500 on any interest you’ve paid for that tax year. Your lender should send you this information, but you can also request it or get it online. It may not make a huge difference, but every little bit helps

is easier said than done, but it’s the best way to put a dent in your student loans. Here are some ways to make more money:

 is easier said than done, but it’s the best way to put a dent in your student loans. Here are some ways to make more money:

If you’re currently employed, try to negotiate a larger salary or promotion. Can you take on more responsibilities at your job to earn more?

Pursue opportunities for overtime or extra shifts.

Apply for jobs with higher paying salaries.

You can start your own side business based on your interests.

Get a part-time job. If possible, opt for one near your home or work so it doesn’t become a huge hassle.

Tap into the sharing economy: Try driving for Uber or Lyft, renting out your apartment on Airbnb when you’re away for the weekend, or pet sitting and dog walking with a service like Rover.

Sell your unwanted belongings at second-hand or consignment shops, online, or at a yard sale.

Offer your services: Do you play a musical instrument? Start giving lessons. Know a subject inside and out? Let people know you’re available as a tutor.