Student Loan Borrowers Navigate Uncertainty Amid SAVE Plan Lawsuits

Millions of student loan borrowers on the SAVE repayment plan are facing uncertainty as lawsuits have blocked the plan, leaving them without payments but with accruing interest starting August 1. The Education Department has provided guidance for these borrowers, stating that they are not earning forgiveness credit during this period.

Applying to a Student Loan Forgiveness Program: A Guidebook

Applying to a Student Loan Forgiveness Program: A Guidebook | $0.00

The SAVE forbearance, which had been interest-free, will now start accruing interest, although it will not capitalize once the forbearance ends. Borrowers may not owe payments until the lawsuits are resolved, and the income recertification deadline has been extended to early 2026.

Student Loan Planning: A Borrower's Guide to Understanding and Repaying Student Loan Debt

Student Loan Planning: A Borrower’s Guide to Understanding and Repaying Student Loan Debt | $0.00

Recent developments have allowed some borrowers to switch to other income-driven repayment plans, enabling them to restart payments and earn forgiveness credit. However, forgiveness under other plans remains suspended for now.

The Student Loan Discharge Vault: 6-Step Ebook guide to freedom and student loan debt relief

The Student Loan Discharge Vault: 6-Step Ebook guide to freedom and student loan debt relief | $11.99

Experts believe that the SAVE plan may not have a future under the current administration, and the duration of the forbearance remains uncertain. Borrowers have four main options to consider during this period of ambiguity.

Student Loan Forgiveness or Ten Years to Life?: A Responsible Visual Guide to Your Federal Student Loan Repayment Options

Student Loan Forgiveness or Ten Years to Life?: A Responsible Visual Guide to Your Federal Student Loan Repayment Options | $20.84

The first option is to switch to a different repayment plan, such as IBR, ICR, or PAYE, to continue earning forgiveness credit. However, processing delays may occur, impacting nearly two million applications in backlog as of April 30.

Student Loan Answers: A 7-Step Guide To Understanding Your Caribbean Student Loan

Student Loan Answers: A 7-Step Guide To Understanding Your Caribbean Student Loan | $31.80

Another option is the PSLF buyback, where eligible borrowers can purchase months of forgiveness credit for the time spent in forbearance, provided they meet specific criteria.

Student Loan Planning: A Borrower's Guide to Understanding and Repaying Student Loan Debt

Student Loan Planning: A Borrower’s Guide to Understanding and Repaying Student Loan Debt | $62.53

Alternatively, borrowers can make optional lump-sum or interest-only payments to prevent their debt from increasing during the forbearance period. Interest will start accruing, but it will not capitalize after the forbearance ends.

Lastly, borrowers can choose to do nothing and wait for further guidance. While this option may lack immediate resolution, it allows borrowers to focus on other financial goals while staying informed of updates and changes.

The current uncertainty in the federal student loan system highlights the importance of staying informed, assessing individual circumstances, and making decisions based on the available options. Borrowers are advised to keep their information updated, seek guidance from servicers, and consider the implications of each choice on their financial future.

📰 Related Articles


📚Book Titles