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  (Live as of July 2025 – these are the exact rates being locked in right now) (Fixed for life of loan – first disbursement July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) 2025-2026 Federal Student Loan Interest Rates Undergraduate Direct (subsidized & unsubsidized):  6.39% Graduate Direct Unsubsidized:  7.94% Parent/Grad PLUS:  8.94% Instant Total Cost Calculator – 2025-2026 Edition (Use this table – it’s mathematically perfect for the current 6.39% rate) Amount Borrowed Type Years in School + Grace Interest Added During School Balance at Repayment Start Total Paid (10-yr plan) Extra Cost vs Subsidized $3,500 Subsidized 4.5 years $0 (gov pays) $3,500 $4,870 – $3,500 Unsubsidized 4.5 years $1,006 $4,506 $6,270 +$1,400 $5,500 Subsidized 4.5 years $0 $5,500 $7,660 – $5,500 Unsubsidized 4.5 years $1,580 $7,080 $9,850 +$2,190 $23,000 (max over 4 yrs) All Subsidized ~4 years avg $0 $23,000 $32,010 – $23,000 (max over 4 yrs) All Unsubsidized ~4 years avg ~$6,600 ~$29,600 ~$41,180 +$9,17...

Handing over the reins to your finances is a massive step. It’s about more than just math; it’s about trusting someone with your future security, your retirement dreams, and your legacy. Whether you are looking to grow your wealth or just get out of debt, finding the right financial planner is critical. But how do you separate the true pros from the salespeople? You have to ask the right questions. If a potential advisor gets annoyed or defensive when you ask these, it is a major red flag. A good financial planner will welcome transparency. Here are the 10 questions you absolutely must ask before signing on the dotted line.   1. Are You a Fiduciary? This is the most important question on the list. A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest at all times. They must put your needs above their own commissions. The Red Flag: If they say they are not a fiduciary, or if they operate under a "suitability" standard, it means they can recommend products that are m...