On SAVE forbearance till 2028. Made 15% more income in 2025. Should I exit SAVE now and apply for PAYE to use 2024 tax return? Or wait for RAP?

I’m currently on the SAVE plan forbearance (set until 2028). My goal is the "Long Game"—paying the absolute minimum on an Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plan until I hit forgiveness. I graduated in 2019 and haven't made many payments since.

The Income Situation:

• My 2025 income is about 15% higher than my 2024 income. And expecting 2026 will be very similar to 2025.

• Loan Simulator for PAYE plan (StudentAid.gov):

• Using 2024 tax info: ~$585/mo

• Using 2025 tax info: ~$737/mo

Questions:

1. Exiting SAVE early: Should I exit the SAVE forbearance now and apply for PAYE? I’m worried about missing "payment credit" months while in this long forbearance. If I switch now, I can lock in my 2024 tax info for a lower payment.

2. The RAP Plan (OBBBA): Should I just stay in the SAVE forbearance and wait for the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) to launch this July? Since PAYE is being phased out anyway, is there any benefit to switching to it for just a few months?

3. Tax Extension Hack: Does it make sense to file a tax extension for 2025? My plan would be to use the extension to keep my 2024 data "active" so I can apply for RAP or a new IDR plan using the lower income figure.

4. The "Dave Ramsey" vs. "IDR Optimization" approach: I’m not interested in the "beans and rice / 100-hours work week/ pay them all" lifestyle. I plan on having these loans for the long haul. My current plan is to max out my 401k and HSA to lower my Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). This should lower my student loan payments and my tax bill. Does this sound like a sound strategy for someone focused on forgiveness?

Assumptions: No PSLF, income not increase, staying single, no dependents.

Appreciate any insight from the IDR gurus here!