For years, I made a conscious decision to chip away at my federal student loans using Income-Based Repayment (IBR) programs. Now, with discussions about ending or significantly altering these programs, I can’t help but feel relieved that I stuck with my plan—even when it felt like I was barely making a dent.
Like many college grads, I entered the workforce with big dreams but a paycheck that didn’t quite match the student debt hanging over my head. Traditional repayment plans demanded more than I could comfortably afford, and defaulting was never an option I wanted to consider. IBR gave me a manageable path forward, adjusting my payments based on my income and keeping me from drowning in debt while I built my career.
It wasn’t always easy. There were times I wondered if I’d ever see the balance hit zero. But month by month, year by year, I stayed the course. And now, as policies shift and the future of income-driven repayment looks uncertain, I realize just how fortunate I was to have had the opportunity to use these programs while they lasted.
For those still struggling with student loan debt, I know the fear of what’s coming. If these programs disappear or become more restrictive, many borrowers will be left with payments that simply don’t fit within their budgets. The burden of student loans has already shaped the financial decisions of an entire generation—delayed homeownership, postponed families, and career choices based on necessity rather than passion. The potential loss of IBR could make things even worse.
If I could offer any advice, it would be this: take advantage of the resources available while they still exist. Make a plan, even if it feels like progress is slow. And if policy changes put borrowers in an even tougher spot, let’s hope the voices of those affected will be loud enough to push for fair solutions.
I’m grateful for the path I took, but I know many are still on their journey. Here’s hoping that fair and accessible repayment options remain available for those who need them most.
Slow and steady. Best decision – no deferments. You chose what was priority, and now you can breathe easy. So proud of you. PAID IN FULL💯