The IDR recertification deadline has been pushed back again — this time, to no sooner than February 2026. And while that might sound like good news on the surface, we know it brings up a ton of questions. That’s exactly what we’re unpacking in this episode.

 

If you’re on an income-driven repayment (IDR) plan or even thinking about it, tune in as we answer listener questions about what the new extension actually means for your monthly payments, whether it makes sense to start paying again now or keep riding the pause, and how this might (or might not) affect forgiveness programs down the road. Get insights and practical strategies to stay on top of your plan without going into a tailspin.

 

Key moments:

 

(00:31) Why it’s important to be extra careful filing taxes this year

(02:57) Paper vs. online IDR applications and why some are mailing backups

(11:24) If you’re in the Sweet v. Cardona group, is IBR worth it?

(13:15) PSLF questions around buyback, forbearance, and filing a tax extension

(19:35) What we know about the ongoing IDR application processing delays

 

Like the show? There are several ways you can help!

• Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Amazon Music
• Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts 
• Subscribe to the newsletter

Feeling helpless when it comes to your student loans?

• Try our free student loan calculator
• Check out our refinancing bonuses we negotiated
• Book your custom student loan plan
• Get profession-specific financial planning

Do you have a question about student loans? Leave us a voicemail here or email us at [email protected] and we might feature it in an upcoming show!