Paying $0 Per Month On Your Federal Student Loans with IDR Plans Like SAVE
A zero-dollar monthly payment may seem like a scam, but it is a legitimate option for some federal student loan borrowers.
A zero-dollar monthly payment may seem like a scam, but it is a legitimate option for some federal student loan borrowers.
Choosing the right federal repayment plan might seem overwhelming, but finding the best option usually isn’t very difficult.
Not all federal repayment plans count toward PSLF — and choosing the wrong one can cost you years of progress. This guide covers every qualifying plan, what’s changed under the 2026 OBBB overhaul, and what to do if you’ve already been on the wrong plan.
IDR plans have a ton of borrower-friendly features, including student loan forgiveness. However, they have some flaws that all borrowers should understand.
Income-driven repayment is supposed to keep monthly payments affordable for all borrowers, but IDR plans help some borrowers more than others.
Monthly payment calculations on income-driven repayment plans get especially complicated for borrowers living in community property states.
Paying extra on IDR plans like IBR, PAYE and REPAYE is a risky choice for many student loan borrowers, especially those chasing student loan forgiveness.
Picking the best plan when deciding on PAYE or REPAYE is critical for married borrowers, those with graduate debt, and high-balance borrowers.
If you are a 1099 worker or run a business, IDR calculations might seem complicated or potentially unfair, but there are ways to work the numbers in your favor.