SAVE transition calculator

RAP vs SAVE Calculator

SAVE ended, but your old SAVE payment is still the reference point for payment shock. Estimate RAP first, then compare the other current options.

Published: July 13, 2026

Last updated: July 13, 2026

Reviewed by: RepaymentGuide Editorial Team

Policy info reviewed: July 13, 2026

RepaymentGuide is independent and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid, or any loan servicer.

Important disclaimer

This content is educational and does not provide legal, tax, or individualized financial advice. Confirm deadlines, eligibility, and payment amounts with StudentAid.gov, your loan servicer, or a qualified advisor before making a repayment decision.

If you are comparing next steps, start with the repayment recommendation flow and then verify the result through official channels.

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Estimated RAP payment

$150/mo

Based on 4% of AGI, minus $0 per month for 0 dependents, subject to the RAP minimum payment.

Estimated monthly interest

$190

Possible interest waiver

$40

Possible principal match

$50

What this means

If you make a full, on-time payment, this estimate suggests about $50 could go toward reducing your balance after borrower principal and any RAP principal match. The exact servicer result can vary.

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How to Interpret RAP vs SAVE

Do not treat SAVE as a current choice. Instead, use your former SAVE bill to understand how much your payment could change. Then compare RAP with IBR, PAYE, ICR, and Standard repayment before submitting a new plan election.

If RAP is lower

Confirm loan eligibility, PSLF treatment, and Parent PLUS history before choosing it.

If RAP is higher

Run IBR and PAYE estimates because discretionary income formulas may be better.

If PSLF applies

Prioritize qualifying payments and clean documentation over payment estimate alone.

Compare current IDR plansCalculate SAVE deadline
Open IBR vs RAPCheck Parent PLUS eligibility

What changed from SAVE to RAP?

SAVE used discretionary income after a poverty-line exclusion. RAP uses AGI tiers and a dependent reduction. That difference is why a borrower who had a very low SAVE payment can see a higher RAP estimate even when income has not changed.

RAP may still be worth comparing because its unpaid-interest treatment and possible principal match can matter for borrowers who make full, on-time payments. But the payment formula, minimum monthly payment, and non-PSLF forgiveness timeline should be reviewed before treating RAP as a direct replacement.

If the calculator shows a large increase, use that result as a warning signal. Compare IBR and PAYE, check whether spouse income is included, and confirm whether PSLF or Parent PLUS rules change the plan list you should consider.

Official sources for RAP vs SAVE