Loan Forgiveness for Educators Act of 2026

Debt Relief for Educators: Qualifying educators who complete five years of service can have 100 percent of their aggregate covered loans, including interest and fees, forgiven or assumed by the Secretary (Section 2(a)(c)(1) and Section 2(b)(c)(1)).

Ongoing Financial Relief: During the period of service, the Secretary will assume the minimum monthly obligation on covered loans, which serves as a monthly payment considered paid in full (Section 2(a)(c)(2) and Section 2(b)(c)(2)).

Support for Families: Parent plus loans issued on behalf of a student who is a qualifying educator, or loans borrowed by a parent who is a qualifying educator, can qualify for these benefits (Section 2(a)(c)(4) and Section 2(b)(c)(4)).

Inclusivity for Language Educators: Educators providing instruction in certain Native languages, such as Alaska Native, American Indian, or Native Hawaiian, can be considered qualifying educators regardless of whether they have achieved full State or Tribal certification (Section 2(i)).

Flexibility for Career Progression: Educators who are promoted to another position within their qualifying program or school can continue to count that employment toward their service requirements (Section 2(g)(3)).

Benefit Restrictions: Qualifying educators are prohibited from receiving benefits under this act if they are already receiving benefits under section 428K or specific parts of the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (Section 2(g)(2)).

No Retroactive Refunds: The act explicitly states that it does not authorize the refunding of any previous loan repayments (Section 2(a)(e) and Section 2(b)(e)).