The July 1, 2028 switch deadline

Short answer: Under P.L. 119-21, borrowers still on legacy repayment plans such as SAVE, PAYE, and ICR must move to an available plan — RAP, or IBR for eligible older loans — by July 1, 2028. Borrowers who do not choose are expected to be placed in a plan by ED. Compare your options before then rather than letting the default decide.

Last verified November 5, 2026 · PSLFCheck Editorial

What to do now

Find your current plan on studentaid.gov or your servicer's site.
Run RAP vs IBR with your current AGI in the calculator.
If pursuing PSLF, confirm your employer and keep certifying employment.
Avoid consolidating after July 1, 2026 without checking: new consolidation loans lose access to IBR.
Set a reminder well before July 1, 2028 to make your choice on studentaid.gov.

Dates and implementation details can change through ED rulemaking or litigation; check the sources below before acting.

Compare RAP vs IBR with my numbers →

Sources

Public Law 119-21 (One Big Beautiful Bill Act), Sec. 82001 — Congress.gov — accessed November 5, 2026
34 CFR 685.209 — Income-driven repayment plans (eCFR) — accessed November 5, 2026
Top FAQs About Income-Driven Repayment Plans — studentaid.gov — accessed November 5, 2026
CRS IF13075: The Repayment Assistance Plan in P.L. 119-21 — Congress.gov — accessed November 5, 2026
Edfinancial (federal servicer, studentaid.gov domain): RAP information — accessed November 5, 2026

Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or any loan servicer. Educational information, not financial or legal advice. Results are estimates. Confirm with studentaid.gov or your servicer. Published by PSLFCheck Editorial, AK Digital Marketing LLC.