Older borrower pre 2014, checked backdoor count to find that IBR 2014 and old IBR were switched in error but that ICR showed all payments made for forgiveness (25 years grad student loans). 300 monthly payments. Total balance 96k (25 years of capitalized interest). Reason I did this was to avoid the "tax bomb" after the end of 2025 for loan forgiveness.
I went ahead and got on the loan simulator on December 30 which linked me to the ICR application. I have pictures and video that showed $0 monthly payments 0 months and immediate (Dec 2025) forgiveness. Finished the application – inputted my lower (app. 75k) salary for 2025…
Late January 2026 I get an email from Aidvantage saying I have to start paying $914 on ICR plan beginning Feb 27 2026! Spent over an hour on the phone with Aidvantage – I actually sent the customer rep the video and picture proof. She finally insisted on me doing the ICR application all over again with her on the phone. SAME RESULT IMMEDIATE LOAN FORGIVENESS $0 PAYMENTS. I request a 30 day forbearance and then…
Today another Aidvantage email again saying $914 monthly payment. Please, I am accepting comments and suggestions here. I realize I need to call Dept of Ed and I may have to escalate this to the Ombudsman and/or retain counsel.
But please what do you all think?
ICR application nightmare from Aidvantage – could use assistance!
byu/420-KushJazz inStudentLoans
Posted by 420-KushJazz
3 Comments
Ombudsman is useless. You could pro se a suit. You also should contact your congressional representative. Sounds like the issue is with NSLDS/FSA, not the servicer. Aidvantage does have a customer advocate also so you can escalate and maybe get an administrative forbearance.
I’m not sure why you think you need a lawyer. Forgiveness has never been immediate and qualifying for forgiveness doesn’t switch payments to $0. Typically, forgiveness seems to be in batches once a month or so. You have two options. You can continue to pay and any overpayments will get refunded. Or, you can request a general forbearance while you wait for your forgiveness to process.
I’m in the same boat – how do you apply for the administrative forbearance?