Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to Student Loan Steve, your trusted resource for student loan planning, forgiveness programs, and repayment strategies. Below are the most common questions people ask about student loans.

About Student Loan Steve

Who is Student Loan Steve?

Student Loan Steve is the nickname for Steve Witter, a Certified Student Loan Professional (CSLP®) and fee-only financial advisor. Steve helps teachers, healthcare workers, and public employees optimize repayment plans, qualify for loan forgiveness.

Where are you located?

Steve is based in Western New York, but works virtually with clients nationwide, especially New York teachers and public service professionals.

🎓 Student Loan Forgiveness & Repayment

Can you help me qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?

Yes! PSLF is one of Steve’s specialties. He reviews your loan types, repayment plan, and employment certification to ensure you’re on track for forgiveness — and helps fix any errors before they cost you time or money.

What is the difference between PSLF and Teacher Loan Forgiveness?

  • PSLF offers full forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments while working full-time for a qualifying employer.

  • Teacher Loan Forgiveness offers up to $17,500 in forgiveness after five consecutive years of teaching in a low-income school.
    Steve helps you understand which program gives you the most benefit — or how to combine both when possible.

Do I qualify for IDR (Income-Driven Repayment) forgiveness?

If you’ve been making payments for 20–25 years, you might qualify for Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) forgiveness. Steve reviews your loan history and servicer data to calculate your timeline and identify potential early forgiveness opportunities through the IDR adjustment.

Can you help me lower my monthly student loan payment?

Absolutely. Steve analyzes all available repayment options (SAVE, PAYE, IBR, and ICR) to find the lowest payment based on your income and family size, and he’ll help you recertify each year correctly.

Working With Steve

How do I get started?

Start by scheduling an appointment here, https://calendly.com/studentloansteve and complete the student loan take form emailed to you. Then I work on your Student Loan Report and work with you step-by-step to get your loans on track for forgiveness and answer any questions you might have along the way.

If I can’t save you money, I let you know that there is nothing I can do and give you the confidence that you’re on the right track.

How much does it cost to work with you?

Steve charges a flat $595 student loan planning fee for a full analysis and implementation plan.

What documents do I need for the student loan review?

Typically, you’ll need:

  • Your Federal Student Aid (FSA) login

  • Recent loan servicer statements

  • Income documentation (paystubs or tax return)
    Steve will walk you through gathering this info during your intake process.

🏫 Specialties for Teachers & Public Employees

Do you work with New York State teachers?

Yes — Steve works with NYSTRS members across districts like Depew UFSD, Lancaster, Clarence, and Buffalo. He helps teachers align their loan strategy, pension, and retirement planning for a complete financial picture.

Can you help with student loan forgiveness for public service or healthcare workers?

Yes. Steve frequently works with nurses, social workers, and government employees to ensure they’re enrolled in the right PSLF-qualifying repayment plans and avoid common servicer errors.

Can you coordinate my student loan strategy with my retirement or financial plan?

Definitely. Student loans are just one part of your financial life. Steve integrates your debt, retirement, and investment goals into one comprehensive strategy — helping you make informed decisions about your career, savings, and future.

🔒 General Questions

Is my information secure?

Yes. Your personal and financial data is protected using encrypted, HIPAA-compliant tools. Steve never sells or shares your information.

Do you only work with federal loans?

Steve primarily focuses on federal student loans (Direct Loans, FFEL, Perkins, etc.), but can also review private loans to explore refinancing or consolidation options.

Do I need to live in New York to work with you?

No — Steve works with clients virtually across the United States through secure video meetings and digital document sharing.