PSLF Progress Calculator
Track your progress toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness — how many of the 120 qualifying payments remain, when you finish and how much could be forgiven.
How it works
Payments remaining = 120 − qualifying payments made · Progress % = made ÷ 120 × 100 · Remaining out-of-pocket = payments remaining × monthly payment
Public Service Loan Forgiveness cancels the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments (10 years) made while working full-time for a qualifying government or non-profit employer. Only on-time payments made under a qualifying repayment plan while employed full-time count, so the 120 need not be consecutive. Because forgiveness is tax-free under current federal law, the balance wiped out at month 120 is money you never repay — which is why a lower monthly payment during the 120 months can actually increase the value of forgiveness.
Worked example
With 48 certified payments made, 120 − 48 = 72 payments remain — about 6 years. At a $350 monthly payment that is 72 × $350 = $25,200 more paid in, after which the remaining $45,000 balance is forgiven tax-free.
Frequently asked questions
Do the 120 payments have to be consecutive?
No. Payments can pause (for example during unemployment or a break in qualifying employment) and resume. Only qualifying payments count toward the 120, but they do not need to be back-to-back.
Is the forgiven amount taxed?
Under current federal law, PSLF forgiveness is not treated as taxable income — unlike some other forgiveness programs. Always confirm current rules, as tax treatment can change.
Why does a smaller monthly payment help with PSLF?
Because whatever remains at payment 120 is forgiven, paying less each month (for example on an income-driven plan) means more balance is left to forgive. Paying extra toward principal during PSLF simply reduces the amount that would have been forgiven anyway.
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Educational estimate only. Financial-aid, loan and tuition rules change and vary by school, state and program — confirm figures with your school and loan servicer.