What are the federal student loan repayment plans like IDR, SAVE, and PSLF?

Federal student loans offer flexible repayment that private loans don't. Standard repayment fixes your payment over 10 years. Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans cap your monthly payment at a percentage of your discretionary income and forgive any remaining balance after 20 or 25 years; the newer SAVE plan was the most generous version but has faced legal challenges, so check the current status on StudentAid.gov before counting on specific terms. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) wipes out the remaining federal balance after 120 qualifying monthly payments while you work full-time for a government or qualifying nonprofit employer — a powerful benefit for teachers, nurses, and public servants. Because the rules shift, verify your loan type, plan, and qualifying-payment count directly with your servicer. If you're pursuing PSLF, submit the employer certification form annually so your count stays accurate.