Last week, the Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate for the first time since 2018, increasing it by 25 basis points. This quarter-point hike brought its target range to 0.25% to 0.5%, and consumers will soon begin to feel its effects.
The federal funds rate affects the rate at which banks lend money to each other. When the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) raises rates, it forces banks to raise their overnight lending rates. These higher borrowing costs are then passed on to the consumer in the form of higher interest rates on credit cards, mortgages, student loans, personal loans, auto loans and many others.
For some loans, such as personal or private student loans that have a fixed interest rate for the length of the loan, this change will only affect those who take out a new loan or want to refinance. But for other loan types, borrowers could begin to see changes right away, including increases in their monthly payments.
The Federal Reserve currently predicts it will raise rates several more times this year and into 2023. If you’re looking to reduce your monthly expenses before interest rates rise even further, consider refinancing your private student loans. Visit Credible to find your personalized rate today.
How will mortgages be affected by the Fed rate hike?
For many mortgage types, such as the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage or 15-year mortgage, monthly payments will remain unchanged. In fact, only new borrowers or homeowners looking to refinance will be affected by higher interest rates.
However, other mortgage holders such as those with an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) could see their payments increase. For example, a five-year ARM will have a fixed interest rate for five years. After that, the rate will fluctuate with the average rate in the market. If rates move higher, so will a homeowner’s monthly payment.
If you want to lock in your mortgage rate ahead of future increases by the Fed, you could consider refinancing your home loan. Visit Credible to compare multiple mortgage lenders at once and choose the one with the best interest rate for you.