I wish I had an income of 61k/year. I just did my taxes. Last year my income was $27,643 including the $15.73 in royalties I received from the MPP. I paid $1,247 out in student loan interest without putting a dent in the principle. I am not without empathy, as I am in a similar situation, just on a smaller scale. But, I am far older than he is. He is paying $1,358.00 on a mortgage and has to pay $170.00 a month to a HOA? That part I find to be ridiculous. But, so are student loans. That was my mistake.