Student Loan Help Isn’t Off the Table: 6 Approaches You Can Still Pursue

The landscape of student loan forgiveness has shifted dramatically since the Trump administration returned to office.

While many Biden-era debt relief programs are likely to be scaled back or eliminated, potential pathways to student loan forgiveness still exist for qualifying borrowers.

Despite the resumption of collections on defaulted loans starting May 5, 2025, and significant changes to the Department of Education, certain relief options remain available.

1. Income-driven repayment plans remain in place

Though they may change, income-driven repayment plans continue to provide a path to eventual forgiveness. These plans adjust your monthly payment based on your income and family size, with remaining balances forgiven after 20-25 years of qualifying payments.

While the administration may modify these programs, enrolling now could secure your position if terms change.

2. Public Service Loan Forgiveness still exists, with caveats

Despite Trump’s executive order aimed at restricting the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, it remains in effect for most public service workers.

The program now excludes those deemed to have engaged in ‘improper activities,’ but continues to offer loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments for government and nonprofit employees.

If you’re pursuing PSLF, document your employment certification forms meticulously to protect your progress.

3. Teacher loan forgiveness continues

Educators working in low-income schools or educational service agencies for five consecutive years may still qualify for up to $17,500 in federal student loan forgiveness.

This program typically faces less political scrutiny than broader forgiveness initiatives, making it a more stable option for qualifying teachers.

4. Disability discharge options remain available

Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge programs continue to provide relief for borrowers who cannot work due to disability.

The administration has maintained this pathway, allowing qualifying individuals to have their federal student loans discharged without tax consequences.

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5. State-based forgiveness programs offer alternatives

With federal programs facing uncertainty, state-based loan forgiveness initiatives have become increasingly important. Many states offer their own forgiveness programs for residents working in high-need professions or underserved areas.

Check with your state’s higher education authority to identify programs you might qualify for despite federal changes.

6. Employer student loan assistance programs fill the gap

As government forgiveness options narrow, employer-provided student loan assistance has grown more valuable. Many companies now offer student loan repayment benefits as part of their compensation packages.

Given significant workforce reductions at the Department of Education, including the Office of Federal Student Aid, employer programs offer a potentially more reliable alternative to uncertain federal relief.

Stay ahead of federal student loan changes

The student loan landscape continues to evolve as the administration works to move the federal student loan portfolio to the Small Business Administration. Borrowers should stay informed about changes affecting their repayment options and potential forgiveness pathways.

Preparing for the resumption of collections through the Treasury Offset Program is essential for borrowers in default. This program allows the government to withhold federal payments like tax refunds and Social Security benefits to collect on defaulted loans.

Getting out of default through rehabilitation or consolidation before collections resume could protect your federal benefits and potentially open doors to remaining forgiveness options.