<prompt> Human: Ive been making extra payments 500 each month on my student loan to get it over with quickly and to avoid racking up interest. Im now down to 2500 owed. Beginning in July, I will qualify to start contributing to my companys 401k plan, so I will begin diverting a chunk of my income in that direction. By then, my loan balance will be 1500. My question is, would it be more beneficial to keep going and finish off my loan, or revert to the minimum payments? My reasoning for the latter is to help improve my credit rating more on-time payments, lengthen the age of the account, maintain variety of accounts, and the interest rate is at 3.15 so the expense of keeping the account wouldnt be too bad. My only other accounts are two credit cards. I also have a short credit history.So, would it make sense to keep the account around for a while? Or should I just finish it? If it helps, for background: Im very responsible with my finances never had a late payment, always pay off CCs in full, have a solid emergency fund, etc. and I have a very stable job Im an accountant, soon to be CPA. Thanks for any advice!  <response>: My reasoning for the latter is to help improve my credit ratingFor the love of God please never do this. If you cant improve your credit score without paying interest then youre doing it wrong. 