IDR / lower payment: what to gather first.

For lower-payment student loan help, the fastest path is not guessing a form. First confirm the current loan picture, income facts, household facts, and whether spouse/dependent details change the route.

Quick answer

Most IDR-style reviews need a current loan statement or StudentAid.gov summary, income proof, household size, tax filing status, and spouse/dependent context. Lentara can scan documents locally and flag what still needs confirmation.

What documents help

• Current servicer statement or StudentAid.gov loan summary.
• Recent pay stub, W-2, 1040, 1099, or IRS transcript.
• Any SAVE, IDR, RAP, or repayment-plan notice.
• Spouse income access and dependent support facts when they apply.

Common gaps

• Household size is missing.
• Tax filing status is unclear.
• Current income is lower than the last tax return but no proof is attached.
• Spouse income consent or access is not answered.

Best next step

Use the scan tool first, then use the payment optimizer or guided prep only if the route still looks worth pursuing.