Student Loan Borrowers Can't Apply for Income-Driven Repayment Plans Right Now. Here's What Experts Say Is Next

If you're holding out hope for more affordable student loan payments or even forgiveness, the future may look bleak. Following the Feb. 18 appeals court ruling against SAVE, experts have encouraged SAVE borrowers to explore other income-driven repayment (IDR) plans. However, the Department of Education recently closed applications for IDR plans, leaving SAVE borrowers and anyone else hoping to sign up for an income-driven repayment in limbo. "It's unclear how long IDR applications will remain unavailable," said Elaine Rubin, a student loan policy expert, CNET expert review board member and advisor for Edvisors. "Unfortunately, borrowers looking to enroll in a repayment plan to better manage their monthly payments won't be able to complete an application until they are back." This latest setback comes on the heels of a flurry of federal changes from President Donald Trump's administration, including layoffs across the Department of Education and a proposal to close this federal agenc ... Read full article.