Core Insights - As of September 2025, there are approximately 14.3 million borrowers aged 25 to 34 with a total federal student loan debt of $480 billion, averaging $33,566 per borrower, which is lower than the overall average of $39,546 [1][6] - The COVID-19 pandemic led to a payment pause for all borrowers, complicating repayment for those aged 25 to 34, many of whom have not made payments in nearly six years [2][6] - The end of the payment pause in 2023 resulted in negative impacts on borrowers' credit scores and potential defaults starting in 2024, particularly for those in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan [3][4] Payment Plans and Challenges - Borrowers in the SAVE plan have been under administrative forbearance since July 2024, with the plan announced to end in December 2025, leaving uncertainty about future repayment [4][6] - The Department of Education's Loan Simulator provides tools for borrowers to compare repayment plans, and a new income-driven repayment plan, the Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP), will be available for enrollment starting July 1, 2026 [7] - Despite fewer younger borrowers being delinquent compared to older borrowers, about 10% of the loan portfolio for those aged 18 to 29 is in serious delinquency, indicating significant repayment challenges [8]