What's New With Student Loans In 2026 + Listener Q&A

2026 may be the most confusing year for student loans yet. Find out what's actually changing with repayment plans, forgiveness, and Parent PLUS loans — and learn what you should be paying attention to right now.

We'll also hear real listener questions about PSLF during a government shutdown, IDR recertification delays, getting out of SAVE forbearance, and whether PSLF buyback is worth counting on. If you're feeling anxious heading into 2026, this episode can help you make smart decisions without overreacting.

Key moments:

(00:44) Does government shutdown time count for PSLF?

(08:26) Moving out of the SAVE forbearance, PSLF buyback and family size rules

(20:10) Considerations for filing taxes jointly vs. separately

(29:30) Warning for Parent PLUS borrowers who are still borrowing or who haven't yet consolidated

(35:31) RAP plan rollout and what borrowers should expect next

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Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at help@studentloanplanner.com and we might feature it in an upcoming show!