The name of the game is to pay the least over time, not forgiveness. If you have a fairly low balance or high income, paying your loans off aggressively rather than pursuing forgiveness might be a better strategy.
The PSLF program could change for new loans, you should never borrow assuming forgiveness.
Always ensure you are on an eligible plan and have eligible loans.
Never pay more than what you are billed when pursuing PSLF. Doing so can put you in a “paid ahead” status which can cause future payments to not qualify for PSLF.
If you aren’t sure if you will be pursuing PSLF for the full ten years and are concerned about accruing interest, we recommend opening a separate savings account and putting any extra payments you might be tempted to make in that account. If you end up not pursuing PSLF, you can make a lump sum payment from that account at that time. If you do end up pursuing PSLF, you can use that money for retirement or a vacation!
Ensure you submit your ECF forms annually and keep copies for yourself.
Remember that Parent PLUS borrowers must pay under the ICR plan to benefit from PSLF.
Consolidate only if you have to, and if so right away.
