RAPpath

About RAPpath

RAPpath is a free, independent tool that helps federal student loan borrowers estimate their monthly payment under the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), the income-driven plan that becomes available on July 1, 2026.

Our calculator implements the published RAP formula — a percentage of Adjusted Gross Income by income bracket, minus $50 per dependent, with a $10 monthly minimum — and compares it against Income-Based Repayment (IBR) so you can see which plan is lower for your situation.

How we calculate your estimate

RAP payments are based on your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Our calculator applies the published RAP schedule — a percentage of AGI that rises with income band — then subtracts $50 per dependent and applies the $10 monthly minimum. For comparison, it also estimates your Income-Based Repayment (IBR) amount, which is calculated as a share of discretionary income above a multiple of the federal poverty guideline for your household size. Because the inputs are your own AGI, family size and loan balance, the estimate is only as accurate as the figures you enter.

Our sources

Calculations are based on the U.S. Department of Education’s published Repayment Assistance Plan rules and the federal poverty guidelines published by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. For the official plan details and to manage your loans, see studentaid.gov. We review the tool against official guidance and update it as the rules are finalized ahead of RAP becoming available on July 1, 2026.

Accuracy & corrections

We work to keep the formula and figures correct, but rules can change and edge cases exist. If you spot something that looks wrong, please let us know — include the income and family size you entered so we can reproduce it. Corrections are made promptly.

Independence & disclaimer

RAPpath is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Education or any loan servicer. All results are estimates for educational purposes only and are not financial, legal, or tax advice. Always confirm your actual payment with your loan servicer before making decisions.