Student loan
IDR comparison.
Federal student loans have several income-driven repayment plans. Each uses a different formula for your monthly payment. This tool compares the big ones so you can see the monthly payment and total interest paid under each.
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SAVE was the newer Biden-era plan; its availability is in legal flux as of 2026. Verify plan availability at studentaid.gov before enrolling.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is available to federal, state, and nonprofit employees. 120 qualifying monthly payments while employed full-time at a qualifying employer discharges the remaining balance tax-free. See the student loan strategy page.
What this tool assumes
- Standard 10-year plan uses standard amortization at the weighted average rate.
- 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines: $15,060 (48 states) / $18,810 (AK) / $17,310 (HI) for household of 1; +$5,380 / +$6,730 / +$6,190 per additional person.
- IBR discretionary income = AGI minus 150% of FPL. Monthly payment = 10% of discretionary income / 12.
- PAYE discretionary income same definition. Monthly payment = 10% of discretionary / 12. Cap at standard-plan payment.
- SAVE (if available) discretionary income = AGI minus 225% of FPL. 5% of discretionary for undergrad, 10% for grad, blended for mix.
- Interest is not capitalized during IDR on the current SAVE plan. Pre-SAVE plans capitalize in certain events.
- Forgiveness timeline: IBR 20/25 years, PAYE 20 years, SAVE 10/20/25 years depending on loan type. Forgiven amount may be taxable.
Federal student loan rules are changing rapidly. Always confirm plan terms at studentaid.gov. Educational only; not financial advice.