Loan Consolidation
Federal Loan Consolidation
Consolidation combines multiple federal loans into one and can unlock certain programs, but in 2026 it can also permanently close off better repayment options. The decision matters more than it used to, and we help you get it right.
Consolidation used to be a fairly low-risk way to simplify loans or become eligible for a program. In 2026 that changed. Because of the new law, doing a new Direct Consolidation now can permanently remove access to the older income-driven plans, leaving only RAP for many borrowers. It can also reset progress you have already made toward forgiveness. Consolidation can still be exactly the right move, but only after you understand what it does and does not do for your specific goal.
This may be a fit if…
- You have multiple federal loans and want to simplify
- You have FFEL, Perkins, or Parent PLUS loans you may need to convert
- You are trying to become eligible for a specific program
- You want to understand the risks before you consolidate
How we help
- 1Review all of your loans and whether consolidation serves your goal
- 2Explain the trade-offs, including what consolidating now can cost you
- 3Prepare and help you submit the consolidation correctly if it is right
- 4Coordinate consolidation with your repayment or forgiveness strategy
Our honest take
Consolidation is free to do yourself at StudentAid.gov, and in some cases it is genuinely the wrong move. We would rather talk you out of a consolidation that would hurt you than process one that costs you options you cannot get back.
Common questions
See what you actually qualify for.
A free, honest evaluation with a real advisor. No pressure, no obligation, and no cost.