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If you’ve ever tried to make sense of your federal student loans, you already know the hardest part is getting accurate, complete data in one place. That’s exactly what your NSLDS file provides—and why SDS uses it as the foundation for building your repayment and forgiveness options. What Is the NSLDS File? Your NSLDS (National Student Loan Data System) file is the official record of: All your federal loans (past and present) Loan types, balances, interest rates. Service prov

In 2025, student loan borrowers faced constant policy changes, legal challenges, and conflicting headlines. While information was everywhere, clarity often wasn’t. As a result, many borrowers made decisions—or delayed them—based on misunderstandings that quietly affected their long-term outcomes. Below are some of the most common misconceptions our experts helped borrowers navigate throughout the year. If My Payment Is Low, I’m on the Right Plan A low monthly payment can feel

A major step toward long-awaited debt relief has arrived for borrowers in long-term income-driven repayment (IDR) plans. A recent agreement in the case of American Federation of Teachers (AFT) v. U.S. Department of Education marks a concrete move toward resuming loan forgiveness for borrowers enrolled in Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR), and other qualifying IDR plans. The settlement also includes a key protection: borrowers who qualify for forgivenes

As the holidays approach, many borrowers are feeling the strain of balancing celebration with financial obligation. For millions, student loan payments are part of that burden, whether they’re delinquent, on the SAVE plan, or in default. The key takeaway this season? You’re not alone, and even small, informed steps now can make a big difference before the new year begins. For Borrowers Who Are Delinquent If you’ve missed a few payments and are feeling overwhelmed, the holiday

In today’s student loan landscape, the term “help” is being redefined. Tools that Studentaid.gov allow borrowers to see how Income Driven Repayment can reduce their monthly payments. But as counselors and advisors, we know visibility is not the same as understanding. Managing student loan payments goes beyond finding the lowest payment, it is not the full story, and it is not the full solution. At Student Debt Solutions (SDS), we go beyond “good enough.” Our platform was bu

When you hear the word forgiveness, it can sound like a magic button that wipes away your loans. Unfortunately, some companies prey on...

The National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) is a comprehensive database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education containing...

As we hit the midpoint of 2025, several important developments are shaping the student loan landscape—and borrowers need to stay alert....

As we reach the halfway point of the year, it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and take stock of where you stand in your student...

At SDS, we regularly analyze user data to improve our tools, better understand borrower needs, and help future users know what to expect....

This month’s question is one we hear all the time —and for good reason: What makes a borrower eligible for forgiveness? Do I qualify? The...

Graduation means more than just tossing a cap in the air—it’s the beginning of your repayment journey. And the key to navigating that...

As student loan borrowers continue navigating the complexities of repayment, we know the uncertainty surrounding Income-Driven Repayment...

As tax season approaches, many student loan borrowers may not realize how their tax filing choices can impact their repayment options....

For years, borrowers have enrolled in Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans with the promise of loan forgiveness after 20 or 25 years. But...

Tax season can be a stressful time, especially for student loan borrowers looking to optimize their financial situation. While student...

March 5, 2025 – We want to keep you informed about critical changes affecting income-driven repayment (IDR) plans and loan consolidation...

In recent months, there have been significant developments in student loan policies that may impact your repayment strategy. Here's a...

The timing of income recertification for Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans depends on your specific plan and recent developments in...

With President Donald Trump back in office, student loan borrowers are looking at how his administration might shape repayment policies....