29 May 2024
A survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reveals that Americans increasingly expect more federal student debt forgiveness, with the perceived likelihood rising to 39% in April from 28.7% in December. Expectations are particularly high among older Americans. Despite some debt relief measures under President Biden, including partial forgiveness for over 10% of borrowers, student loan repayments resumed last fall after a pandemic pause. Many borrowers are struggling, with one in six behind on payments. Rising interest rates on new student loans are likely to increase pressure on the Biden administration for further relief.