Federal Student Loan Repayment Guide 2026-2027: RAP vs Tiered Standard

Federal student loan repayment changed substantially in 2026. For many borrowers, the first question is no longer simply how much they owe. It is which repayment rules apply to their specific loans.Federal Student Loan Repayment Guide 2026-2027 explains the new repayment system in practical, borrower-focused language. It shows how loan type, first-disbursement date, consolidation history, income, dependents, marriage, and forgiveness goals can change the repayment options available to you.Inside, you will learn how to: - determine whether RAP, Tiered Standard, or a legacy repayment option applies to your loans;- calculate and check a RAP payment using adjusted gross income and qualifying dependents;- understand RAP interest protection and principal matching;- compare RAP with Tiered Standard using monthly payment, repayment term, interest, and long-term cost;- handle mixed pre- and post-July 1, 2026 loan portfolios;- navigate the transition away from SAVE;- evaluate consolidation before submitting an application;- account for marriage, tax filing status, dependents, and spouse student debt;- protect Public Service Loan Forgiveness progress when changing repayment plans;- use the official StudentAid.gov Repayment Calculator more effectively; and- review your repayment strategy as your income, household, loans, or federal rules change.The book also includes 18 practical worksheets, decision trees, comparison tools, and checklists designed to help you organize your loan data and work through the decision in a repeatable way.Current through September 16, 2026.Independently published and not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid, or any federal student loan servicer. This book provides general educational information and does not provide individualized financial, legal, tax, or investment advice.