AFT PLUS now offers the Student Loan Consolidation Program as a new benefit to AFT members who are paying off student loans. This program is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Education and offers superior benefits and customer service compared to those offered by other loan consolidators. The benefits of consolidating through the program are significant for those who have more than $10,000 in outstanding eligible federal education loans. The program lets you lock in a fixed interest rate for the life of the loans and lower monthly payments by as much as 54 percent. You can reduce your interest rate by up to 1.85 percent and simplify your repayments by making only one monthly payment. Student loans still in repayment may be eligible for consolidation, even if you started repayment years ago. Interest rates on student loans are currently low. If you are a recent graduate, you may be able to lock in a rate as low as 2.225 percent. For more information, go to http://www.unionvoice.org/ct/Zpadzxs1ZdaX/loan/ or call 800/936-4976.