How to switch from SAVE to RAP or IBR

The six steps

1. Get your numbers ready. Have your FSA ID login, your latest tax return (your AGI is on Form 1040, line 11a of a 2025 return, or line 11 of a 2024 return), and your spouse’s details if you’re married. Decide on a plan first with the calculator.
2. Open the official application. Go to studentaid.gov/idr and log in. This is the free Income-Driven Repayment application from Federal Student Aid.
3. Pick your plan. Choose the plan you decided on (RAP or IBR), or ask for the plan with the lowest payment.
4. Share your income. Let the IRS send your tax information directly (fastest), or upload proof of income if your income has dropped since your last return.
5. Submit and keep proof. Submit, then save or screenshot the dated confirmation. It shows you applied before your deadline.
6. Watch your servicer account. Your servicer applies the new plan. Check your account and mail until the new payment appears.

What you need before you start

• Your FSA ID, your studentaid.gov username and password.
• Your AGI: it’s on Form 1040, line 11a of a 2025 return (line 11 on 2024).³
• Your household: how many dependents you claim and, if married, how you file.
• Your servicer: if you’re not sure who it is, look it up on studentaid.gov.⁴

After you submit

Processing can take weeks: the Department of Education has acknowledged hundreds of thousands of pending applications.⁵ Keep your confirmation, check your account, and keep paying whatever you’re billed in the meantime.

If your application stalls

1. Call your servicer with your application date at hand and ask them to confirm its status. Write down the date, time and agent’s name.
2. If that doesn’t fix it, file a complaint with the FSA Ombudsman.⁶

The personalized report includes letter templates for both situations, filled in with your details.