Unfortunately, I don’t see a route to getting that time to count toward PSLF.

The PSLF buyback program is a great way to replace months that were in forbearance or deferment status with qualifying payments. Sadly, the PSLF buyback page specifically lists In-school months as not eligible for the program.

The thing that makes SAVE special is that it offers a subsidy that covers the unpaid interest each month.

That subsidy will take care of the interest portion of the payment. However, I’d encourage you to check out the other article I linked as you evaulate your options and strategy.

Thank you so much for your help with this, I just need to clarify one thing. When I make the payment, will it first go towards interest and then towards principal or do they always apply the payment to principal if you qualify for the zero dollar payment in other words, if he qualifies for the zero dollar payment and then we make a payment will they apply any of that payment to the interest first and then to principal or does it automatically go to the principal?

I love this question. It shows you really are understanding the fine print on repayment and putting together a well thought out strategy.

To answer your quesiton, you can make extra payments and it will be applied to principal because the subsidy will cover all of the interest.

However, I’d encourage you to consider some other options that might be more advantageous than making extra payments when you qualify for the subsidy.

Whether or not you are retired has no impact on SAVE enrollment or eligiblity. The only difference is your changing financial circumstances may mean changing payments. Generally speaking, SAVE is a pretty good option for retireees, but it will depend on how you are funding your retirement.

So, currently I am on the SAVE program and am retiring this year, is there a requirement to sign up for SAVE in retirement, or does the SAVE program I currently on automatically start when I reach retirement? Thank you.

Absolutely. In fact, SAVE is a great option for those living on social security.

Many retirees will be able to qualify for $0 per month payments until their debt is forgiven.