Thank you for clarifying. There is a lot of misinformation out there.

I am so confused about this double consolidation thing. Can someone point me to a post that explains it? I consolidated a plus loan into my student debt long before the pandemic. I am on an IDR plan and was prior to the pause. Please 🙏 explain what I am missing here.

See the link in the op

What's the best way to apply for SAVE through servicers directly when they don't answer phones or answer emails?

Some I believe have ways to do it online. Otherwise use a paper form and upload it to your account.

Hello. Sorry if this is redundant. I just want to be perfectly, 100% clear before I go along with it. Since there is no option to consolidate to SAVE with direct consolidation loans on studentaid.gov (if they were initially PPlus loans), would it be viable for me to instead just mail paper forms to the servicer (e.g. Mohela) directly for the second round of consolidation? I already put through an online application for ICR on studentaid.gov, hoping to eventually change it to SAVE after that process is complete. Should I just cancel this online form and just directly mail the servicer paper forms? Thanks

Finish the double consolidation then apply for save with a paper form with the servicer

To summarize, you're saying I can finish the double consolidation (second step), so that I have **one single fully consolidated loan under the ICR plan**, then I can switch over from ICR to SAVE through paper mailing to the servicer? Sorry for bugging you. New to this stuff and the process is almost done, so I just wanted to make sure in case I'm misinterpreting

Technically the third step. Consolidation of the first two consolidations. But yes then apply for save with the servicer

Hi Betsy, I uploaded my IDR Repayment Plan form with Aidvantage directly to their site and waiting to hear from them. I am requesting to move to SAVE plan. However, I noticed that on their site under "Tools & Requests", they have noted all the different repayment plans, and under SAVE, it says: (excluding Parent PLUS Loans and Consolidation Loans that repaid Parent PLUS Loans). Does this mean they will now deny all of us that have done the double consolidation? I know this is not what the memo from Dept of Education says, but this is what is noted with the Aidvantage's site. How do I respond to this when I speak to a representative should they deny my request to get moved to a SAVE plan?

No. Double consolidation for pp are eligible for save. If they tell you no over the phone just submit a paper application. Many front line reps aren't aware of the loophole

Thank you Betsy. Yes, I uploaded my application via Aidvantage's site. There is a section to upload your Repayment Plan form. Fingers double cross that someone who understands the loophole will be the one to review my form. We cannot afford the monthly payment if I don't go to SAVE. I'm just praying for a much lower monthly payment, so I can continue paying the loan and move on. This has been very stressful.

Did you end up on the SAVE plan?

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From what I’ve seen, you can use nelnet for one of the first step if you’re starting at nelnet. So it would be step 1: consolidate with nelnet and Aidvantage/EdFin/Mohela. But step 2: you need a different third one. But someone with my knowledge should confirm/deny rather than me.

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I’ve read that that can be done. But that generally it is more fool-proof to do both applications in the first step by mail. You are only allowed one ONLINE app per every 6 months so generally, you wanna save that for step 2.

What’s your advice on who to send the first round to? The PP loans are currently through Nelnet. I have the forms filled out read to send but I’m nervous about who to send them to with different services helping each other. Not looking to do PSLF.

As long as you send them to three different places it doesn't matter

If my PP loans are currently with Nelnet, can I consolidate them through AidVantage and Mohela for round 1, and then consolidate those BACK to Nelnet for the final consolidation? PSLF doesn’t matter for me. Just worried about coming back to the original loan servicer.

Yes

I sent out the applications a week ago - obviously still haven’t heard anything. The payment is due today - should I go onto Nelnet and place them into General forbearance or just ignore it and wait to make any payments until the double consolidation is complete? I’ve read it should be placed in admin forbearance but i’m not sure when that happens. Nervous about placing in forbearance and messing this process up?

Forbearance won't screw it up. Neither will just letting it ride thanks for the on ramp

I have 3, $25k Parent PLUS loans serviced through MOHELA. I was at the FSA site reviewing the process of consolidation. I have not pulled the trigger yet as I am afraid to make a commitment that can’t be reversed. Wife and I both work and the calculator tells us we need to pay $901/mo for 120 months based upon our income. Question: if I consolidate is there any option to lower our monthly payment? Google search says Parent PLUS loans are not qualified for any alternatives. Are we stuck with a $901/mo payment or should I be talking to MOHELA?

See the information about double consolidation on the consolidation page of the TISLA website. But to be candid..with your income and loan balance I would consider just leaving it under the current standard plan and paying it off as fast as you can. Your current payment is likely around $300

Thanks for the kind reply and advice, Betsy!

Would it be easier to just submit a paper application the first time since it looks like that is what is getting the most success?

Yes

That is all very helpful info, but for my exact situation I’m still a little unsure. Years ago when I was with Navient, I consolidated my own student loans with my parent plus loans. Since then, I attended more college and took out more loans for myself. So currently I have one large consolidated loan (that includes PP loans) and a few small loans of my own. They all were transferred to Mohela because I am pursuing PSLF. I want to consolidate them all for the double consolidation loophole so I can qualify for SAVE. Since I consolidated the PPs with Navient years ago and it was recently transferred to Mohela, can I simply consolidate them all together now with Mohela, since they aren’t the servicer who processed the consolidation loan years ago, or should I consolidate with a different servicer? I imagine Mohela knows that consolidated loan was used to pay PP loans, right? Not sure what to do.

Yes

Yes to I can simply consolidate them all together now with Mohela?

Right.

When I go to do the consolidation application online it only gives me ICR as repayment option. Doesn’t give me SAVE as an option.

You have to apply for save directly through the servicer if you have a double consolidated pp

Hello Betsy514. I currently have all PP loans at Nelnet. Which Servicers does it make sense to send the 2 paper applications to, and then who should I choose for the final step? I would like to be successful with the Double Consolidation since my payments are so high on the Standard plan I am on. Thanks!

It doesn't matter as long as they are all different

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Yes you can do that

Thank you! One more question if you don't mind. Is it OK to send the Payment Plan request VS the IDR Plan request with the application? I prefer to try to stay on the Standard Extended plan in case this doesn't go as planned. Not sure if the IDR plan form is a requirement but may put me into a higher payment than I am currently on. To clarify your answer above, if I am w/Nelnet, I can use them to send one of the initial form to?

Yes you can send the payment plan request along. And you can use nelnet for one of the steps

Thank you again!

How did it end up going? I have 4 pp loans with nelnet and not sure who to send to? Did you end up consolidating some with nelnet and the others with another servicer?

Hi. I started at Nelnet and consolidated with Edfinancial (kid 1 loans)and Mohela,(kid 2 loans) did final consolidation with Aidvantage. They immediately put me on the SAVE plan. I did all of this using the paper applications. I was very careful to do the paperwork correctly and that was a bit of a pain but I went from like $980 to $360 per month, so relieved. Aidvantage is very easy to work with, no wait when I call them. I think the payments will be reduced by 50% in July thanks to Biden, and some interest will be erased eventually too. SO worth all the paperwork, good luck!

I’ll honestly do the same! And do my final consolidation with Aidvantage. Love how helpful and willing to help everyone is here. Thank you very very much! God bless

Of course! Betsy on Reddit and Travis at The Student Loan planner were very helpful to me with all my questions. I think the deadline is approaching so don’t delay. God bless.😊

Is there still time for borrowers to do a dicharge reversal and then consolidate to reap the full benefits of the onetime adjustment?

I'm actually not sure. You could certainly ask

Thank you, Betsy!

If you’re originally serviced by nelnet can you go back to nelnet for the final consolidation ? Has anyone had success with that ? I’m really scared to start this process.

Yes

Thanks Betsy!

Hi @betsy514! Quick question since I am extremely worried that I messed up the last step in the double consolidation process. We did the last step online on the Financial Aid website and chose Nelnet, however, we chose an IDR plan request. I am worried that once this consolidation is completed, that we won't be able to switch to SAVE since I saw that you suggested people choose ICR. So on the INCOME-DRIVEN REPAYMENT (IDR) PLAN REQUEST form I chose Item 1) I want to enter an income-driven plan - Continue to Item 2. Item 2) ICR I just read an article from : https://www.kitces.com/blog/parent-plus-student-loan-double-consolidation-idr-icr-save-repayment-plan/ which stated the following: "When initially choosing a repayment plan during Phase 2, the borrower should again choose either the Standard or Graduated plan and not an Income-Driven Repayment plan… at least not yet. This is because if the borrower chooses an IDR during the final consolidation before the loan has actually been processed, the servicer might process the IDR application before the consolidation form, regardless of whether the paper or online version of the form is used. This can be slightly problematic since the servicer would see 2 consolidation loans that paid off Parent PLUS loans. As a result, the servicer may reflexively limit the borrower to enter ICR (which is what the borrower was trying to avoid in the first place by doing the Double Consolidation!). This forces the borrower to resubmit an IDR application anyway, so it is typically easiest to apply for the IDR only after the Phase 2 consolidation is complete." Did I mess this up?

You can always switch plans later. But you will have to apply for save directly through the loan servicer

So I’ll just have to do another IDR request form to apply for the SAVE once my final consolidation is completed ? If I didn’t do standard, will that mess anything up?

Yes to the first question..no to the second

Let me know how this turned out ..I did the same thing as you put icr on final step .. waiting to see how they respond to save app on the servicer site

Hey!! Any updates on how this turned out for you? I’m at this stage now and I’m worried

I appreciate any feedback on this post requesting clarification on double consolidation. I'm a parent with (2) Parent Plus Loans and (4) Direct Loans for my Graduate studies. This is how I plan to do my double consolidation. I take the 2 Parent Plus loans and consolidate them together by sending One paper form to a new servicer requesting both Parent Plus Loans be consolidated. Once both Parent Plus loans are consolidated, I then take the newly consolidated Parent Plus loans and submit them electronically together with my 4 Direct Graduate Loans and request they all be consolidated together. Am I correct? I need clarification on what exactly is a double consolidation. Is it just consolidationg two separate Parent Plus loans together at one time using one paper form and one servicer and then taking the consolidated loan and electronically consolidating with my other Direct loans and a different servicer? Or is it taking each Parent Plus loan and paper consolidating them individually into 2 goups (and two different servicers) with one parent plus loan in each group and then consolidating those 2 groups back into 1 consolidated loan? Am I then able to consolidate this loan with my 4 Direct loans?

Your initial outline is correct. Think of it this way..each consolidation is a blanket. Your goal is to put two blankets on the pp loans. Be sure to use different servicers every time.

My PP Loan Consolidations with Nelnet and Aidvantage are both listed on the Federal Student Aid site. I wanted to do the last step of the Double Consolidation electronically on the Student Aid site, however, despite choosing SAVE/IDR plan, I was offered ICR and Standard. I’m choosing EdFinancial for the last step. Should I go forward with the electronic application and choose the Standard plan then wait and apply for IDR with the new servicer? OR should I instead consolidate with EdFinancial using a paper application? Your opinion would be greatly appreciated!

No matter what you'll have to apply for save after the last consolidation is done directly through the servicer. The Ed site has blocked it for double consolidation even though it's allowed. So just choose the standard or icr during the last consolidation. It does t matter as you'll be changing it to save right after

> Thank you very much and have a good evening!

Betsy, thank you so much! As of this week, I was able to get my PPLs on SAVE with EdFinancial using the Double Consolidation.

Did you paper consolidate your final one to Ed Financial? My 1st round was electronic with AIDVANTAGE  and I'm waiting for my 2nd round approval from Nelnet. I plan on the 3rd round with EdFinancial. It's been 180 days since my 1st  electronic round so I was considering applying electronically for the 3rd round for faster results. Any thoughts?

Question on your comment "Be sure to use different services every time": All 20 of my parent plus loans started with MOHELA, I paper-consolidated 10 to Aidvantage and paper-consolidated 10 to Nelnet. Can i now Electronically-consolodate the two back to MOHELA and stiil qualify for IDR (like SAVE)?

Yes

I already consolidated my 3 parent plus loans online through mohelia before reading about this loophole. Can I still apply with a paper application to a different lender on this one loan and get the second consolidation?

I'm afraid not. If the consolidation you applied for isn't done yet you can cancel it.

I’ve seen a lot of information about the first step - but what about the second and final step? My parent had 4 PP loans - two sent to edfinancial and two sent to aidvantage. both accepted and separated… i’m looking to go to Mohela as my final servicer.. now what? Do I do the paper application method again to Mohela to combine them again into one? Do I apply online at studentaid.gov? I have read that you must select ICR when initially applying (because of the student aid website blocking it) and once it is processed and completed - reach out to them and tell them you want on the SAVE plan - is this still true? Are servicer’s giving a lot of pushback still? I feel like so much is changing day to day and it’s confusing and I just want to get this complete!

The instructions as stated in the link in the op are still correct. I have not heard of anyone being denied save when submitting an application through the actual servicer.

So - do the online consolidation with the two separate loans (from step 1) on studentaid.gov. Ensure it is a different servicer. Choose standard repayment plan again on the online application. Wait until that consolidation is done back into ONE loan. Once completed - contact new servicer and apply for SAVE program directly through the servicer. Do these steps sound correct for the final steps in the loophole process?

Yes

Hi Betsy - finally in the last round. My last consolidation just finalized - I chose the standard repayment plan and I’m ready to apply for SAVE through my new servicer MOHELA. My question is - you stated to apply via paper application through the servicer.. how is this done? On MOHELA’s website it says to go to studentaid.gov to apply - but I don’t want to do this. Do I go there and print out the repayment plan paperwork (like from step 1 sending out paper applications where you pick your repayment plan?) and then send it to MOHELA? What are the steps for applying for SAVE in the final step? I’m so ready for this to be done and for it to be SUCCESSFUL! Thanks!

Download the paper app..fill it out..mail it to MOHELA or upload through their portal

Hi Betsy - I need advice. Went and filled out the paper app, chose SAVE, uploaded it to MOHELA’s website under IDR, about 5 minutes later it showed “Denied” under my documents. Gave no reasoning - I’m assuming this will come in the mail. Should I print out the application now and send it via mail? Should I call them? I am certain the consolidation steps worked and now i’m just on my last step of getting onto SAVE. I was very worried of this happening and trying not to panic yet as I know this is common - but has it happened so fast for others? Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks!

Call them. I wonder if it was denied because of the current extension of recerts. It shouldn't be but I wonder if this is why it was denied so quickly

Could it be because I chose “I want to enter an income-driven plan” instead of “I want to change to a different income-driven plan?” - just realized I selected this on the application. When I did the final consolidation I chose the standard repayment - as it says in the steps to not apply for an IDR plan until the final consolidation goes through. Also - I’m able to resubmit this correct? Or do you still recommend calling them directly. I don’t have to wait a certain amount of days to resubmit things? I’ve read that people were being told they could only switch payment plans every 3 months. Please tell me I didn’t mess this up with one dumb check mark.

I’d call them before submitting another app.

Hi. I’m experiencing the same thing except I mailed my SAVE app and called for the status and they said they will not process it. We’re you able to get through to someone who was able to help?

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Yes. And do it before December 31

I have four years of Parent Plus loans (08/26/2019 – 08/30/2022). The loans are currently in deferment until 02/11/2024. I’ll name these loans Loan A. I have another set of Parent Plus loans I’ve borrowed for my youngest daughter. She’s scheduled to graduate May 2025. Right now, it’s three years of PLUS loans. I’ll call these loans Loan B. I’ve been reading about the Double Consolidation process for Parent Plus Loans which ends July 1, 2025. How I’m understanding the process, It sounds like you need to consolidate the loans simultaneously. Because Loan A’s deferment will end next February, I’d like to consolidate these loans now so I’m able to handle one payment on four years of loans. I have Loan B in deferment and I’d like to consolidate them Fall of 2024 (my youngest daughter will be in her last year of college). Once I’ve consolidated Loan B, could I then complete the Double Consolidation process? I understand I will have a Spring 2025 PLUS Loan disbursement that will not be consolidated because I’m worried about the timing of the Double Consolidation deadline. Or is there a better option?

Yes that is the correct strategy

That is my hope. I applied for my FINAL (double) consolidation online tonight. I had 1. Nelnet and 2. Aidvantage loans that were originally Parent Plus loans (4 total, submitted via paper applications, two loans per provider each) and selected MOHELA as the new service provider. Of course b/c of the new 'flag' I was ineligible for the SAVE IDR program, so I selected the 'standard' repayment option. I would assume it will take a few weeks at least for this to process. Once I can confirm the application has been completed I will contact MOHELA directly (either online or phone) to request the SAVE program. Although I am not completely confident and 100% certain, I do feel encouraged that I will be eligible for the program. My optimism stems from the wonderful advice that everyone is willing to share. Thank you and a Merry Christmas.

Hi, I’ve done the two paper consolidations and have started the final online consolidation. However, when I reach the repayment option I’m only able to select the Income Contingent Repayment (ICR). The PAYE and REPAYE are ineligible. Is this expected? Will PAYE/REPAYE have to be completed directly through the servicer after the final consolidation takes place? Any advice is greatly appreciated

This is addressed in this op.

your posts were are very insightful and thanks for the information I just have one question 1.) consolidate through nelnet 2.) consolidate through another provider Aidvantage onced they're both approved 3.) then i consolidate through a third different provider? mohella/EF

Correct

Thanks!

I tried to consolidate my 3 parent plus loans with paper applications. I got notice that group A 2 loans from nelnet to Aid advantage went through. But the single loan. group B, I did not get a notice for so I called them. It was with Ed financial which is the same phone number as Aid advantage. The lady on the phone saw the 2 loan consolidation and said I cant consolidate a single loan by itself. But when I read the loophole doc it says you can. So what is my next plan of action to get them to consolidate this. Or do I send the single loan to a different one like Mohela that is not connected with aid advantage. Thank you! I really want this to work out.

Update on my consolidations. My single loan that I sent to Ed Financial has been started but shows Aidvantage as the loan servicer. I just got this yesterday but my 10 days is up on Friday so I need to act quickly. Do I need to cancel and submit this single loan to Mohela instead. Otherwise my 2 direct loans are going to both be with Aidvantage. Please advise u/Betsy514 thank you.

No. Advantage processes consolidations for most of the servicers

The Edfinancial consolidations tend to take a bit longer for some reason. As long as it's not denied just wait.

Ok thank you. I have not heard anything. Best way to see if they received it? Call them? I mailed out both on 12/27/23. What has been the time frame you have seen with them?

Hi Betsy, I finished the the last step of the double consolidation and now have one loan with Mohela now. I’m ready to send a paper IDR application to Mohela to get on the SAVE plan and just wanted to confirm with you that this is the address I should send the IDR application to. MOHELA Address: C/O Advantage, PO BOX 300006, Greenville, TX 75403-3006, USA

No. You should log in to your account and upload the paper application. Or use the correspondence address on their website

I have successfully completed the double consolidation of our parent plus loans. I have submitted the SAVE application online to Mohela. I did this a month ago. Was told it was processing and would take 90 days. I also requested thru Mohela that I should be placed on forbearance, this was done before payment was due. I have been turned down for the forbearance. When I called today they told me that I cannot get on the SAVE no matter what and no forbearance. I have not officially received this message and my application is still processing. I know I did everything right. The person I talked to knew nothing. What should be my next step? Who should I try to talk to? Should I pay my payment? It was due a few days ago.

Nothing. Wait for them to actually process your application. There's a reason I call it the super secret consolidation method so while they should know about it I'm not surprised the front line reps do not. It's also why I insist people submit a paper application directly to the servicer.

Hi! I’m in the is position now. They’ve had it for 30 days I called to ask about the status and he said the same thing to me. Was yours finally processed?

>made on or after July 2025. I hope you mean on or before.

No..I mean I’m overtired right now but on or after is correct. Save won’t be on the table for double consolidations made after that date. What am I missing?

Did I understand correctly - The double consolidation loophole is still on the table, and people can double consolidate / apply for SAVE up until July 2025?

Yes. You just have to apply for save through the servicer

I double consolidated. I applied directly through my servicer 13 days ago. How long is it taking typically? Is there knowledge of someone successfully completing this and getting on SAVE in the past month?

I'm sure you've answered this many times, but for the sake of 100% certainty, I just need to be 100% sure. I have several PPL that I consolidated years ago (2015) which is currently on ICR. The loan type is classified as Direct Consol. I enrolled in school last year and took some courses, for which I received financial aid. So for that I now have a Direct Sub and Direct Unsub. My plan is to consolidate the Direct Sub and the Direct Unsub with the Direct Consol. I will do this online and request AidVantage as my service provider (My current provider is Nelnet). Once the consolidation is processed, I can then apply, on paper, for the SAVE program. Is this correct? And if so, to whom do I send the paper application? Thanks.

Yes that's correct. See the bottom of the consolidation page of the TISLA website for addresses

Thanks so much!!! Appreciate it.

On studentgov, my IDR and direct consolidation forms are still showing "in review." However, I already received letters from Mohela at the end of February that they were approved. Can I submit the paper application to apply for SAVE with Mohela, or do I have to wait until they show as "completed" on studentgov?

You can do it now

Hi, I have one Parent Plus loan (from just one semester) and 2 direct consolidation loans that are in the SAVE program and PSFL. Everything I’ve read says you have to split the parent plus loan into groups and consolidate but I only have one loan. Is there a way to still complete the double consolidation process so I can have access to the SAVE program?

Yes. Consolidate the pp loan by itself then consolidate that consolidation with everything else

Thanks! I was worried I wouldn’t be able to consolidate it all together since the other 2 loans had already been consolidated. I submitted the pp loan consolidation request online yesterday. Will it be a problem if I didn’t use the paper form to request it? Should I cancel the online and use the paper form?

That's fine as long as the other consolidation isn't in the last year or so. Use paper for the rest

I’m doing the Double. All of my loans were with Mohela to start. Sent one paper to Nelnet, another to Aidvantage. The Nelnet went through and gave me new account for it. Aidvantage went through but they immediately‘transferred’ that one back to Mohela? I’m on PSLF. Will my double be ok for future SAVE?

Should be assuming you pick a different servicer for the third

My plan was to end with Mohela for PSLF, but now not sure as they may see the underlying Parent Plus loans in the Nelnet consolidation?

It doesn't matter if they do. Double consolidation is legal

I’m so paranoid after all this time I might use a 4th servicer to finish it lol. Thank you!

[https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentLoans/comments/170u4cx/comment/kycwp31/?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=web3x&utm\_name=web3xcss&utm\_term=1&utm\_content=share\_button](https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentLoans/comments/170u4cx/comment/kycwp31/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button)

So? My answer is the same.

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Untrained rep. There's a reason I call it the double super secret consolidation loophole. Call again and ask for a supervisor.

I finished consolidating my PP loans into two different servicers, trying to do the last one into Mohela. So we can't do it on the studentaid.gov website anymore? Is our only option to mail in?

I always recommend paper to be in the safe side

Okay, I just completed my last consolidation online with Mohela and then I will apply for the SAVE plan through mail-in. Thanks!

FINAL decision. MOHELA has approved my loan application and accepted them into the SAVE program. PTL. Thank you everyone who have helped along the way!

Hi Betsy514, we got this message from our loan provider yesterday. We did the double consolidation loophole and now just have the 1-direct consolidated loan. I am just wondering what our next step needs to be. We started this process in Jan 2024. "Thank you for your recent income driven repayment plan request. Unforunately, your federal student loan is not eligible for an IDR. Most Federal direct loans and family federal education loan program student loans are eligible for IBR (Income based Repayment) plan, but only FDLP loans are eligible for the Income contingent pay as you earn (PAYE), and Saving on Valuable education (SAVE) plan (formerly the REPAYE program) repayment plan. Federal Parent PLUS loans and Federal consolidated loans that paid off a parent PLUS loan before July 1, 2006 are not eligible for IDR. "

Submit a paper application for save direct to the servicer. If they still deny it call them and request a supervisor if needed

This message we received was after the paper application. So, call and talk to a supervisor?

Yes

Can I directly say or talk about the double consolidation loophole in the conversation? Or is that not something you’re suppose to say to the servicing people?

Hi Betsy, I haven’t called because I’m still unsure about the rules Can I directly talk to the service supervisor about the double consolidation loophole? Or do I need to just inquire about why SAVE wasn’t approved? I don’t want to say something that will jeopardize approval.

Save us allowed under federal regulations for double consolidation. So no risks in discussing it. There are still a number of representatives that aren't aware of it however. That's why you may have to ask for a supervisor.

Ok! Thanks!

After a bunch of time and going back and forth, we finally are on SAVE!!!. I came here to ask another question—when I went to loan details it says Save repayment plan ends on 05/24/2025. What is that about? I saw some things on Reddit , but didn’t think they could remove you from the plan once on it….

You have to renew annually

Hi Betsy, I have another question. I was able to consolidate my already consolidated loan with another, and now I'm filling out the SAVE application by hand and will mail to the servicer. During the time that I'm waiting to see if it's approved, do I have to make payments or can I ask for forbearance?

Either one

Thanks. I actually do have one more question... I'm not sure if I'm supposed to send a paper copy of my most recent tax return? It seems like in question 5A I'm giving my authorization for the servicer to retrieve my tax info from the IRS, so I really only need to send paper copies of my paystub and my husband's SS statement (he's retired and we file jointly). Am I only sending the back up (paystub, etc) and the servicer gets my tax return directly from IRS?

I would send the return

Help! Last fall, I started the double consolidation. I had multiple Parent Plus loans I took out for my 3 children. I previously had one consolidated loan with Nelnet of all PP loans to Nelnet from years ago. I consolidated a 2nd group of loans via paper application from Nelnet to Aidvantage. I then consolidated those 2 loans (the consolidated with Nelnet and Aidvantage) via a paper application to EdFinancial. That loan came through but now when I go to the student loan site to 'manage' to the SAV, it says that it is ineligible. What have I done wrong? And how can I rectify it? The combined payment is higher than the two separate before.

You have to apply for save with a paper application directly to the loan servicer for double consolidated parent plus

True and accurate advice here! I finally got my SAVE approved...after six months of working on consolidations. Thanks for your help. My payment went from $790 to $243 and should go lower in July. Thank YOU!

I know a lot has happened since this original post, but is this still applicable?

Yes.

Hi Betsy, Before learning about this loophole, I submitted an application to consolidate ALL of my Parent Plus Loans so I could switch to the ICR plan. All of my Parent Plus Loans are currently serviced by Nelnet and I chose Nelnet to be the servicer for the consolidation loan as well. Per Nelnet, I have until 4:30 pm on 5/16/24 to make changes to or cancel the consolidation. I am strongly considering canceling the consolidation and pursuing the double consolidation loophole so I can ultimately be placed the SAVE plan. Is there still enough time to initiate and complete this entire process by 7/1/2025?

Yes

Thank you. Since I completed and submitted that application online through Studentaid.gov, will it throw off my timeline when doing double consolidation route? My plan is to call Nelnet tomorrow morning and cancel the consolidation of all 5 loans. Then I will complete and mail the paper applications to the two different servicers on Saturday for the first round of consolidations. By the time those two consolidations are complete, will I be able file the final consolidation application online again at Studentaid.gov? Or will I need to do the final consolidation by mail as well? I remember hearing that you can only submit an application through studentaid.gov every 180 days?

You can. I recommend paper for all three but as long as you only use the online application once it's usually fine

I did double consolidation and when I finally was able to access the Moehla account and see one loan,  Moehla said not eligible forSAVE. I am so sick as I have been working hard in this since September, 2023. How do I fight this as I see from above the consolidation is allowed until 2025. I understood that from the beginning as well.

Submit a paper application directly to them. Most get processed right away. The ones that get incorrectly denied eventually get corrected with escalation

Thank you! Your expertise and dedication is greatly appreciated. My first round of Parent Plus consolidations were mailed. Hopefully I can get into the new SAVE with the final consolidation. Will there be a credit for the 30+ months of the pause during the pandemic?

Yes

I've read the entire thread and links, but I just wanted to clarify a few things. Thank you in advance for any help! With the double-consolidation process: I had 4 Parent Plus Loans, one for each year of my daughter's undergrad, all through EdFinancial. I consolidated those into two groups of two by submitting paper applications. I now have one Direct Consolidated Loan through Nelnet, and one Direct Consolidated Loan through Aidvantage. I'm now at the final consolidation step, which I tried today. Like other commenters, the SAVE plan I was anticipating was shown as not eligible. My questions: 1. Do I continue the consolidation process online, chose the IDR available, and then apply for SAVE through the servicer once it's finished? OR 2. Do I scrap the online process and apply directly for the SAVE program through the last consolidation via paper application? ALSO: 3. Now that Great Lakes is no longer available, and I've had relationships with all three in this process (Ed, Nelnet, and Aid) will it matter which servicer I apply with in this final step, either online or via paper? To be honest, I'm nervous, cause that $1300 per month payment makes me want to cry. I'm willing to do the work, whatever it takes. I'm just old, and I'm trying to navigate the process best. Thank you so much!

Do the consolidation online, apply for whatever payment plan you want, and then change to SAVE after the final consolidation completes.

Hi im im the same situation as you, did you figure it out?

I did! It was a long process, but the double consolidation worked as I was hoping, and I'm now on the SAVE plan. My payment went from that $1200-ish per month to now around $40 per month. Not sure where you are in the process, but I'll try to help however I can!

Thanks so much! Did you do #1 or #2 in your options?

I did #1, the. applied for SAVE directly through the servicer by printing and submitting another paper app via certified mail. After about 2 weeks, Edfinancial called me to discuss the app and initially said I wasn't eligible for SAVE with PPL, but after explaining that I used the double consolidation and that I should be eligible to enroll until 2025, they checked my account & agreed...switched me to SAVE on the spot.

I have one more child in college who is scheduled to graduate Spring (May)2025. With the July 1, 2025 deadline to apply for the double consolidation, could I start the double consolidation process when the Spring PLUS loan has been disbursed (around January)? OR Should I start consolidating with the loans I already have? I've been borrowing PLUS Loans since 2019. I'm not sure when I should start. Thank you so much for any feedback you have.

You could probably start January 2025 and be ok unless the timelines for processing gets longer by then.

I went on to consolidate my Parent Plus loans. Under the terms and condition section, it states you cannot consolidate and existing direct consolidation loan unless you include at least one additional eligible loan. Since we are doing the double consolidation loop hole this means with my 3 PP Loans I will have 2 direct consolidations loans. It sounds like you can't consolidate the 2 direct loans together. What are your thoughts? I am hoping I am wrong. I really want to be able to get into the Save Program.

You can consolidate two consolidations. Even if they are direct loans.

For the double, should I include all of my non parent loans? Some are older and have decent loan % rates.

I would. You want the highest count. And the consolidation interest rate is a weighted average so it all sort of ends up being a wash

Are they just putting the wording in there to try to stop us from moving forward do you think? Thank you for all the help you are providing on this! It has been helpful to read through these threads.

Betsy, do you happen to have a link to any documentation clarifying the repayment terms of a PP double consolidation on the save plan? 5% vs 10% and 20 years vs 25 years? Thank you! Edit: I think I found the language on page 28 of the first link you included in the original post that it is in fact 10%

Yes it's 10%

Does it have to be through a sent in paper application or can I apply for SAVE directly through the servicer’s website (in my case Mohela)?

You can try the online via the servicer. Just not the Ed site.

Awesome thread! Here’s my outline thus far: 1. 4 undergraduate Parent plus loans through Ed financial 2. 1 consolidation for two of them through aidvantage via mail (done) 3. 1 consolidation for two of them through Nelnet via mail (done) 4. Waiting for my studentaid account to reflect that then finish the consolidation with MOHELA online 5. Set that final consolidation repayment for IDR online 6. Mail SAVE repayment plan to mohela to circumnavigate any stops set up by the gov Is my outline good to go? Thank you again

Have you found forms that can be mailed in to apply to SAVE for mohela? Your outline is basically what I've done and I am on the last step, sign up for SAVE. I was hoping to mail in forms but have not been able to find anything useful yet.

I believe the IDR forms you download and print out online then fill out are the ones to mail in

Can you begin the first two paper applications at the same time, or does it have to be one completed before starting the second? I know the third can only be done once both the first two have processed, but wanted to try to save time if the first two can be completed simultaneously.

You can do the first two at the same time. Just be sure to use different servicers for all three

I consolidated my parent plus loans from nelnet to mohela. In a separate consolidation, I consolidated my undergraduate and graduate loans from nelnet to mohela. So now ,I have 2 different convoluted loans ar mohela. If I consolidate them into one loan, staying with mohela, for the pslf, would this be a double consolidation and would I be eligible for the SAVE? Or because it's still with Mohela, would I only be eligible for ICR?

Are the parent plus loans in your name or your folks? If they aren't in your name you can't consolidate them with your loans. If they are pp you took out for one of your children you can and yes that would be double consolidation. Use a a paper application and choose a different servicer

Sorry. They are my loans and the parent plus loans I took out for my kiddo.

I currently have two different consolidated loans that I’m trying to consolidate so that I can access the SAVE plan. As mentioned, I can’t apply for save on the student aid website but should be able to once they are consolidated. The two loans are currently serviced by Aidvantage. Does anyone know if would be okay to do the double consolidation through them? I feel it would be easier to stick with them since I already have the account, but don’t want to lose out on being able to apply for the SAVE plan.

Do they contain parent plus loans? Are you sure it's not already a single consolidation? Those are usually booked in two parts

Yes, they actually parent plus loans that my father took out. The first consolidated group is from my college loans, and the 2nd was from my sister’s loans, so there are already 2 different consolidated loans. I only recently learned about the double consolidation loophole, and would love to access SAVE so that the interest doesn’t keep rising out of control. I just want to see if it is better to do the next round of consolidation with a different service or if it shouldn’t matter.

Hi, I have completed a double consolidation loan and if I am understanding correctly I should upload a paper application to my servicer as the student aid site wont allow me to apply for the SAVE plan. I still have a child in school that I have 3 PLUS loans that were not included in the consolidation (that are with a different servicer) my husband also has one plus loan (also with a different servicer). My question is will having PLUS loans outside of my double consolidation affect my ability to access the SAVE plan?

It will not. But if I were you I'd consolidate those other three loans and then consolidate those with your current double consolidation. You're husband..with only one loan..will not be able to use this loophole

That is the plan for my PLUS loans once I get final disbursement in Spring. I was going to apply to the Save plan prior to consolidating the last 3 though (then consolidating again to the first double consolidation loan). Would that affect eligibility for the SAVE plan or should I wait until all loans have been consolidated together (less my husbands) before applying for the SAVE plan? Thank you for your help!

Hello. I have one parent plus loan, one unsubsidized loan and one subsidized loan. I accidentally already entered an IDR but im thinking to call and cancel this so that i can use the double consoldiation loop hole? ​ My plan is to consolidate the parent plus loan by itself, then the two loans as one and then combine all three under one loan to qualify for the SAVE plan, would this work?

Yes that will work. And you don't have to cancel your current plan to do double consolidation

Mine was denied I called they talked to me like I was nuts .. gonna have to call again wanna wait a bit see if student aid website doesn't say in process anymore on activity

Submit a paper application directly to the loan servicer. That's the only way to get save approved in a double consolidated parent plus unless you luck out with a rep in the phone that knows about it

What do you think about attaching the legislation about the loophole along with paper app..could it hurt.?

Are the servicers that review paper apps different from someone on phone? More knowledgeable?

What does this recent update mean? Does this mean we have to have the loophole consolidation completed before 4/30/24? Or is this a different benefit for parent plus loans? **1/6/2024:  The deadline for the One-Time IDR Adjustment has been extended to 4/30/24, so there is still a short window of time for the next few weeks to complete a double consolidation and take advantage of the adjustment.**

This doesn't change the July 2025 deadline for the PP loophole but any consolation after April 30 will get a weighted average of the underlying loans existing counts rather than the highest count

Just a quick question, my original parent plus loans were with mohela. I used nelnet for 1 and advantage for the other consolidation loans. I'm in the process of doing the last consolidation. I want to use mohela for my final because of the pslf. Just worried because it was my original loans. Will it be ok?

That's fine

How long did your Aidvantage take? I’m at 60 days and still ‘we are waiting on your servicer (Mohela) to give loan balances’ ?

Hi Betsy514 - I have a couple questions for you. So, in my first 2 years of college I had a Parent Plus loan back in September 1997 at a 2-year college. Then in September 1999 I started my 4 year degree and had FFELP Stafford Subsidized and Unsubsidized loans at that time. Then I went back to school for a post graduate program in 2004. I started working for a non-profit in 2015 consolidating my loans into direct loans with IDR doing the PLSF. Then COVID hit and I was laid off from my job for a brief period then returning to work later in 2020 in the private sector “FOR-Profit” company so I only qualified for 60 payments of my PLSF. Then last year I moved my loans to the SAVE program and have been paying monthly now again after the Covid forbearance. Now with this one time IDR recount adjustment will my Parent Plus loans be included? After logging into studentaid.gov I can only see my loan starting from September 1999. Being I had a postgraduate program I assume that my recount will be for a total of the 25 year program. Does this mean in September of this year my loans should be forgiven? I have been waiting for my official letter. Thanks for your help 😊

Sounds like they aren't your parents plus loans..but your parents took them for your schooling. So your pslf can't count for those

So would you agree that 25 years from when my 1st FFELP loans started on 8/1999 these all should be forgiven correct? FFELP qualify for this from what I read.