RepaySmart — IDR Payment Compare
Income-driven repayment plans set your federal student-loan payment from your income and family size instead of your balance. Enter your income, balance, interest rate, and family size to compare the estimated monthly payment under the Standard 10-year plan, IBR, ICR, and the new RAP plan, all at once. Income-driven payments are based on 'discretionary income' — your income above a multiple of the poverty guideline for your household.
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Worked example
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Inputs
- Annual income (AGI) $
45000 - Federal loan balance $
35000 - Interest rate %
6.5 - Family size
2 - Where you live
48 states + DC / Alaska / Hawaii
Frequently asked
Is the lowest monthly payment the best deal?
Not always. A lower monthly payment usually means a longer term and more interest paid over the life of the loan (unless you reach forgiveness or PSLF). This tool compares monthly payments; it does not compute lifetime cost or the forgiveness timeline yet.
What happened to the SAVE plan?
SAVE was blocked by the courts and ended in 2026. Borrowers are being moved to IBR or the new RAP plan. We don't offer SAVE as an option because it's no longer available.
How accurate is the RAP estimate?
RAP (the Repayment Assistance Plan) took effect July 1, 2026, and its exact bracket math is still being implemented. Treat the RAP figure as an estimate and confirm with your servicer.