Parent PLUS Loan Calculator โ Compare Repayment Plans
Calculate payments and compare Standard, Graduated, Extended, and ICR plans. See retirement impact. 2026: 8.05% fixed, 4.228% origination fee.
Why This Matters for Your Finances
Why: PLUS loans help parents fund college but parent is fully responsible. Don't sacrifice retirementโprioritize your nest egg.
How: PMT = P ร [r(1+r)^n]/[(1+r)^nโ1]. Total loan = amount ร (1 + origination%). Standard 10yr, Extended up to 25yr, ICR income-based.
- โ2026: 8.05% fixed, 4.228% origination
- โStandard 10yr = lowest interest
- โICR = only IDR option for parents
Sample Scenarios โ Click to Load
Loan Information
Repayment Plan
Parent Information
This repayment plan fits within typical guidelines. Consider extra payments if possible.
Repayment Plan Comparison
| Plan | Monthly | Total Paid | Interest | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $380 | $45,624 | $14,355 | 10 |
| Graduated | $380 | $47,905 | $16,637 | 10 |
| Extended | $380 | $45,624 | $14,355 | 10 |
| ICR | $285 | $85,545 | $54,276 | 25 |
Calculation Breakdown
Loan Details
Selected Plan
Cost Analysis
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โ ๏ธFor educational purposes only โ not financial advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making decisions.
๐ก Money Facts
2026 PLUS fixed rate
โ StudentAid
2026 origination fee
โ StudentAid
Max interest deduction
โ IRS
1. Key Takeaways
- โข PLUS = federal parent loan for dependent undergrads
- โข Parent fully responsible โ cannot transfer to student
- โข 2026: 8.05% fixed, 4.228% origination fee
- โข Standard 10yr = lowest interest; Extended/ICR = lower payment
- โข Pay interest during school to avoid capitalization
- โข Don't sacrifice retirement โ prioritize nest egg
2. Did You Know?
2026 Rate
8.05% fixed, 4.228% fee
No Limit
Up to cost of attendance
ICR
Only IDR for parents
Death Discharge
Forgiven if parent or student dies
Tax Deduct
Up to $2,500 interest
PSLF
Eligible if parent works govt/nonprofit
3. How It Works
PMT = P ร [r(1+r)^n]/[(1+r)^nโ1]. Total loan = amount ร (1 + origination%). Standard: 10yr fixed. Graduated: low start, increases. Extended: up to 25yr. ICR: income-based, 25yr.
Inputs
Loan amount, interest rate, origination fee, term, repayment plan, parent age, retirement age
Outputs
Monthly payment, total paid, total interest, retirement impact
4. Expert Tips
Borrow minimum
Only what's needed
Pay interest
During school avoids cap
Consider refinance
Private may offer lower rate
Retirement first
Don't cut 401k for PLUS
5. Comparison Table
| Plan | Term | Monthly | Interest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10 yr | Highest | Lowest |
| Graduated | 10 yr | Rising | More |
| Extended | Up to 25 yr | Lower | Most |
| ICR | 25 yr | Income-based | Most |
6. FAQ
No. Parent responsible. Student can refinance into own loan.
Yes, up to $2,500/yr (income limits).
Deferment, forbearance, or ICR. PSLF if eligible.
Discharged if parent or student dies.
7. Quick Stats
8.05%
2026 rate
4.228%
Origination
10yr
Standard
25yr
ICR max
8. Sources
9. Disclaimer
โ ๏ธ Warning: Estimates only. Verify with loan servicer. Not financial advice.