Congress - Pause Student Loan Payments NOW!

Dear Members of Congress,

We, the undersigned, urgently call upon Congress to implement an immediate pause on all federal student loan payments and accrual of interest until Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans are fully restored and accessible to all eligible borrowers.​

The recent changes to IDR plans have significant implications for millions of Americans and their families. Many now face the possibility of increased monthly payments, which could lead to significant financial hardship and potentially result in a wave of defaults. The threat of these repayment plans going away through negotiated rulemaking, Congressional budget process, and ongoing SAVE litigation has created uncertainty, leaving borrowers without clear guidance on their options and adding to their confusion and stress.

By taking these actions, Congress can protect millions of Americans with student debt from further financial insecurity. It is heartless and cruel to expect millions of individuals and families to pay their monthly payments when they are unsure what their monthly payments will look like in the coming months.

Pausing student loan payments can give hard-working Americans the relief they desperately need. In many cases, student loan monthly payments have families deciding whether or not they will meet their basic needs. A payment pause will allow families to prepare for the future during these uncertain times. 

Until the future of student loan programs is decided, borrowers should not be expected to make payments.