Should I invest my Cash and Take Out Student Loans?!- Money Q&A
Jul 29, 2024
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Dive into the intriguing dilemma of investing cash versus taking out student loans. Discover travel hacking tips, especially the perks of the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass for free flights. Learn about strategic financial decisions for education and compare 403b Roth and 457b Roth accounts. Plus, explore the alarming rise of AI-driven fraud and how personal security measures are becoming essential. This conversation is full of valuable insights to help you navigate your financial journey!
35:58
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Quick takeaways
Utilizing the Southwest Airline Companion Pass can substantially reduce travel costs for frequent travelers by leveraging credit card point bonuses.
When weighing student loans or cash for tuition, low interest rates may favor loans while prioritizing scholarships reduces overall financial burden.
Deep dives
Understanding the Southwest Companion Pass
The Southwest Airline Companion Pass is a significant benefit for frequent travelers, allowing a designated companion to fly for free, only requiring the payment of taxes and fees. To qualify for the pass, one must earn 135,000 qualifying points, which can be accumulated through flying, credit card usage, or from Southwest Rapid Rewards partners. An easier path to earning points is through leveraging credit card bonuses, with current offers capable of bringing individuals close to the required points threshold. This allows for unlimited use of the pass within its validity period, providing substantial cost savings and travel flexibility, especially for those who travel frequently or with family.
Weighing Investment and Student Loan Options
When considering whether to take on student loans or pay tuition using existing cash, the interest rate on potential loans plays a critical role. If loan interest rates exceed 6%, using cash to pay for tuition is advisable to avoid high interest debt. Conversely, if interest rates are low, it may be beneficial to take out loans and invest available cash in a Roth IRA to capitalize on tax-free growth and compounding returns. Prioritizing the pursuit of scholarships and financial aid is also essential, as securing additional funds can lessen the financial burden and may influence the final decision regarding cash usage or loans.
Choosing Between 403b Roth and 457b Roth Accounts
When deciding between a 403b Roth and a 457b Roth, factors such as contribution limits, withdrawal penalties, and overall flexibility play critical roles. Both accounts allow contributions up to $23,000, or $30,000 for individuals aged 50 and older, but the 457b allows penalty-free withdrawals upon separation from service regardless of age, making it an attractive choice for those considering early retirement. The 403b typically carries a 10% penalty for early withdrawals, which could hinder financial access in the future. Thus, individuals anticipating the need for withdrawals before age 59 and a half should lean towards the 457b Roth for its greater withdrawal flexibility.
The Rising Threat of AI-Generated Fraud
Fraudulent activities utilizing AI technology, such as deepfakes, are increasingly alarming, as criminals often impersonate company executives to manipulate employees into sharing sensitive information or transferring money. Recent instances have highlighted the potential dangers, including a case where an employee was tricked out of $25.6 million. Companies must adapt by implementing robust fraud detection and prevention measures, including employee training and multi-factor authentication. Protecting sensitive information not only minimizes the risk of fraud but also emphasizes the necessity of being proactive in today’s digital landscape.
In this episode of the Personal Finance Podcast, we're going to do a Money Q&A about should I invest my cash or take out student loans?
Today we are going to answer these questions:
Question 1: One of The Best Deals in Travel Hacking!
Question 2: Should I Invest My Money And Take Out Student Loans?
Question 3: 457 vs 403B
Question 4: Fraud is growing in companies.
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