Student Loan Forgiveness Checker
Check your eligibility for PSLF, IDR forgiveness, and Teacher Loan Forgiveness.
Free Student Loan Forgiveness Eligibility Checker — PSLF, IDR, Teacher
Could the federal government wipe out your student loans? Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) erases the entire balance after 120 qualifying payments. Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) forgives the balance after 20–25 years. Teacher Loan Forgiveness covers up to $17,500. Check your eligibility in 30 seconds.
How to use this tool
- 1
Pick your loan type
Federal Direct loans qualify for the most programs. FFEL loans need consolidation first.
- 2
Select your employer type
Government, 501(c)(3) non-profit, K-12 teacher, or other.
- 3
Choose your repayment plan
IDR plans (SAVE, PAYE, IBR) unlock the most forgiveness.
- 4
Enter qualifying payments made
PSLF needs 120 (10 years). IDR forgiveness needs 240–300 (20–25 years).
Pro tips
- PSLF requires Direct Loans + qualifying employer + IDR plan. Miss any one and payments don't count.
- Submit the PSLF Employer Certification Form annually — don't wait until year 10 to discover errors.
- Switching jobs between qualifying employers doesn't reset your count — keep certifying.
Frequently asked questions
Is PSLF taxable?
No — federal PSLF forgiveness is tax-free. IDR forgiveness was historically taxable but is currently tax-free through 2025 under the American Rescue Plan.
Do private student loans qualify?
No — only federal Direct Loans qualify for federal forgiveness programs.
What if my employer status is unclear?
Submit the PSLF Employer Certification Form — the Department of Education will confirm if they're a qualifying employer.
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