Yes, student loan forgiveness is still available, but the rules and programs have changed in recent years. As of August 11, 2026, several federal forgiveness options remain active, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and income-driven repayment (IDR) forgiveness. This guide explains what you need to know to take advantage of these programs.
Current federal forgiveness programs in 2026
Federal student loan forgiveness is not gone, but it is more targeted than before. The U.S. Department of Education still offers forgiveness for borrowers who work in public service, who have made payments under an income-driven plan, or who have been defrauded by their school.
Here are the main programs still available as of August 2026:
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – for government and nonprofit employees
- Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) forgiveness – after 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments
- Teacher Loan Forgiveness – for teachers in low-income schools
- Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) discharge – for borrowers with severe disabilities
- Borrower Defense to Repayment – for borrowers misled by their college
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
PSLF remains one of the most popular paths to forgiveness. If you work full-time for a qualifying government or nonprofit employer and make 120 qualifying payments under an income-driven plan, the remaining balance is forgiven.
The U.S. Department of Education continues to process PSLF applications. You should submit the PSLF form annually or when you change employers to track your progress.
Income-driven repayment (IDR) forgiveness
IDR plans cap your monthly payment based on income and family size. After 20 or 25 years of qualifying payments, any remaining balance is forgiven. As of 2026, the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan is still in litigation, so some borrowers are placed in forbearance while courts decide its future.
If you are on an IDR plan, keep making payments if you can, or contact your servicer about forbearance options. Your progress toward forgiveness continues even during forbearance if you meet the rules.
Deadlines and changes you need to know
The one-time account adjustment that counted past deferments and forbearances toward IDR forgiveness ended in 2024, but the effects are still being processed. If you had loans before 2013, you may see your forgiveness timeline shortened.
| Program | Status as of August 2026 | Key deadline |
|---|---|---|
| PSLF | Active | None – apply anytime |
| IDR forgiveness | Active, but SAVE plan in litigation | None – payments count |
| Teacher Loan Forgiveness | Active | After 5 years of service |
| Borrower Defense | Active for approved claims | None – but apply promptly |
Who qualifies for forgiveness?
Eligibility depends on your loan type and repayment plan. Most federal loans are eligible, including Direct Loans. Some older Federal Family Education Loans (FFEL) may need to be consolidated into a Direct Consolidation Loan to qualify for PSLF or IDR forgiveness.
Private student loans are not eligible for federal forgiveness programs. However, some states offer their own relief for private loans, but that is rare.
Steps to check your eligibility
First, log in to your Federal Student Aid account to see your loan types and servicer. Then, use the official loan simulator to compare repayment plans and estimate forgiveness.
Second, submit the PSLF form if you work in public service. The Department of Education will tell you how many qualifying payments you have made.
Third, if you are on an IDR plan, recertify your income annually to keep your payment amount accurate.
Actionable tips for borrowers
Do not wait to act if you think you qualify for forgiveness. The rules can change, but the programs are currently open.
- Keep copies of your employment certification forms and payment records
- Consolidate FFEL loans into Direct Loans if you want PSLF credit
- Check your loan servicer’s website for updates on the SAVE plan
- Contact the Federal Student Aid Ombudsman if you have disputes
What about the Supreme Court ruling?
In 2023, the Supreme Court blocked the Biden administration’s broad student loan forgiveness plan. That plan would have canceled up to $20,000 for millions of borrowers. Since then, the administration has used other legal authorities to cancel loans for specific groups, such as public servants and disabled borrowers.
As of August 2026, there is no new broad forgiveness plan in effect. But existing programs continue to operate, and you can still apply.
How to apply for forgiveness
You apply for PSLF and IDR forgiveness through the Federal Student Aid website. You will need your FSA ID, employer information, and loan details.
For Teacher Loan Forgiveness, you must complete a separate application after five years of teaching in a qualifying school. For TPD discharge, you may provide documentation from the Social Security Administration or a physician.
Final thoughts
Student loan forgiveness is still available in 2026, but you need to be proactive. Understand which program fits your situation, keep your records organized, and submit the required forms on time. If you are unsure, contact your loan servicer or a nonprofit counselor for free help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is student loan forgiveness still available in 2026?
Yes, federal student loan forgiveness programs like PSLF and IDR forgiveness are still active, but the broad one-time cancellation plan was blocked by the Supreme Court.
How do I know if I qualify for student loan forgiveness?
You can check your eligibility by logging into your Federal Student Aid account and reviewing your loan types, repayment plan, and employment history against the program requirements.
What happens to my student loans if I don’t get forgiveness?
If you do not qualify for forgiveness, you must continue making payments under your current repayment plan until the loan is paid off or you become eligible for another discharge option.
Can I still apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness?
Yes, PSLF is still accepting applications, and you can submit the employment certification form at any time to track your qualifying payments.
Are private student loans eligible for forgiveness?
No, private student loans are not eligible for federal forgiveness programs, but you may have other options like refinancing or negotiating with your lender.
