Student Loan Help

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Student Debt Relief That’s Not a Scam

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The City of New York offers 2 ways you can get free, confidential, personalized guidance to lower student loan payments.

No strings attached. No surprise charges later. We keep your information safe and will never sell it.





1. Online

Through our partnership with Summer, an online platform, you can find free federal and state programs to reduce monthly student loan payments. Free resources include:  

  • Digital platform that will recommend the most affordable monthly repayment plan option,
  • Scan your application for over 120 loan assistance and forgiveness programs,
  • Real-time updates and expert support on fast-moving student loan news and developments,
  • College planning tools for parents and guardians,
  • Services and assistance for residents in possible default and/or forbearance,
  • Services and assistance for residents with private student loans, and
  • Access to Summer’s team of trained experts for one-on-one counseling via multiple support channels (including email, in-app messaging, and text), available from 9 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday.

To be eligible, you must live in NYC or work for the City of New York.

Are you a resident of NYC? Learn more about free resources from Summer today!

Are you a City of New York employee? Access the NYC Summer portal for City employees!

2. In Person or By Phone

Through our NYC Financial Empowerment Centers, you can work with a financial counselor to manage your student loans along with your other expenses and debts.

To be eligible, you must be at least 18 and live or work in NYC. Income and immigration status do not matter.

Book an appointment with an NYC Financial Empowerment counselor.

Beware of Student Loan Scams

You NEVER have to pay for free federal and state programs, including loan forgiveness. If you are a victim of a scam, file a complaint online.

 

More Student Loan Help

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Important Information Regarding the 2026-2027 FAFSA

The 2026-2027 FAFSA form opened on October 1, 2025, with new rules requiring students to complete identity verification to qualify for financial aid. This applies to first-time title IV applicants, immigrant students and those flagged for additional review. The new process aims to improve security and speed up access to financial aid. More updates can be found on the student aid FAFSA support website.

Important Information Regarding SAVE Plan

Following a federal court injunction, the Department of Education (ED) announced that interest on federal student loans in the SAVE Plan began accruing on August 1, 2025. According to ED, these changes are part of their compliance with legal rulings that block provisions of the SAVE Plan, including the 0% interest rate previously applied to some borrowers. Borrowers are responsible for making monthly payments that include accrued interest and principal. ED encourages SAVE borrowers to begin transitioning to legally compliant repayment plans. Borrowers are encouraged to enroll in an existing IDR plan (e.g. Pay As You Earn (PAYE) or Income Contingent Repayment (ICR)). Borrowers can compare repayment options using the Loan Simulator and access updated guidance at StudentAid.gov/courtactions.

Learn How to Avoid Student Loan Distress

Student Loan Forgiveness Programs

If you have ever worked for a government or 501c3 organization, you may be eligible for federal loan forgiveness programs. Depending on your profession, you may also qualify for state repayment assistance programs. 

Advocacy Work to Help Student Loan Borrowers