# Guide to Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (TEPSLF)

How payments count toward loan forgiveness with TEPSLF

- **Source:** [The College Investor](https://brifing.si/source/d431d77d-492e-4105-be7c-2525bbb643ab)
- **Published:** 2026-07-22
- **Topic:** [Finance](https://brifing.si/c/finance)
- **Original article:** <https://thecollegeinvestor.com/24410/temporary-expanded-public-service-loan-forgiveness/>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/56ac17c1-5586-4aff-a16e-4fa42b629421

## What is TEPSLF?

Temporary Expanded Public Service Loan Forgiveness (TEPSLF) counts payments made under repayment plans that don't qualify for regular Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). This is a significant opportunity for borrowers nearing the 120-payment threshold.

## Origins of TEPSLF

TEPSLF was created by Congress in 2018. With only 2% of PSLF applications approved, it was developed as a solution for borrowers denied due to being on the wrong repayment plan.

## Who is Eligible?

TEPSLF is designed for borrowers with the right loans, the right employer, and 120 payments but on the wrong repayment plan. Eligible repayment plans include Graduated and Extended Repayment Plans.

## The Final 12 Payment Rule

For TEPSLF, the payment made 12 months before applying and the last payment must be at least as much as under an income-driven repayment plan. This rule catches many borrowers.

## Application Process

To apply for TEPSLF, first switch to an income-driven repayment plan. Then, verify your payment amounts to complete your application.

## Switching Repayment Plans

Your final 12 months of payments must be at income-driven repayment plan levels for TEPSLF. Switching your repayment plan is the cleanest solution.

## Verifying Payment Amounts

Verify your payment amounts by consulting your loan servicer or using the Loan Simulator on StudentAid.gov. This reduces the risk of your application being denied.

## Reasons for Application Denial

Many borrowers see their applications denied because their payment amounts are below income-driven repayment plan levels. Carefully check your payment amounts.

## Future of TEPSLF

TEPSLF is funded with a limited budget and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If you think you qualify, don't delay your application.

## Comparison with PSLF

PSLF only counts payments under income-driven repayment plans, while TEPSLF includes payments under Graduated and Extended Repayment Plans. This is a lifeline for many borrowers.

## Importance of TEPSLF

TEPSLF offers a significant opportunity for borrowers stuck on the wrong repayment plans. This program can be a crucial step toward loan forgiveness.

## Conclusion

TEPSLF is an essential tool for achieving loan forgiveness. However, there are rules and requirements to heed during the application process. This guide covers all the details you need to know when applying for TEPSLF.

## Sources covering this story

- https://thecollegeinvestor.com/24410/temporary-expanded-public-service-loan-forgiveness/ — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._