What Student Loan Borrowers Need to Know Before July 2026 | Ep. 217

Student loans are changing in a major way, and many borrowers may not realize how much their repayment options could shift.

In this episode of The New Money Habits Podcast, Nino Villa is joined by student loan coach Renée Earwood to talk through the federal student loan changes scheduled for July 1, 2026. Renée explains why this date matters, how the current student loan system is being restructured, and why borrowers should not assume their repayment plan will simply stay the same with a few minor tweaks.

They discuss the SAVE plan going away, changes to income-driven repayment options, the new Repayment Assistance Plan, forgiveness timelines, possible tax consequences, and why borrowers may see their monthly payments increase. Renée also explains why Parent PLUS borrowers may be especially affected and why it is important to understand your loan type, repayment plan, income, family size, tax filing status, and long-term financial goals before making decisions.

If you have student loans, Parent PLUS loans, or someone in your household is preparing to borrow for college, this conversation is an important place to start. The rules are changing, and the more clearly you understand your options now, the better prepared you can be before those changes take effect.

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