Hello! 
I am a veterinarian currently enrolled in the IBR repayment plan.  I read your thread on vin.com (it was fantastic) and had a few questions.  Regarding the IBR repayments that are calculated based off of previous year income, if you have a change in your income status in the current year, can you apply for new, reduced IBR payment?  Also, I was curious about something mentioned on the vin.com thread.  If your loan balance increases while on the IBR, does the annual repayment adjustment need to be based off the NEW loan amount or the original?

Many thanks,
Christina

Hi, Christina!  Borrowers can apply to have their IBR payments recalculated based on a change in income using an Alternative Documentation of Income form (each loan servicer can provide that). 

Loan balances don’t drive monthly payment amounts under IBR—that’s based on adjusted gross income and family size.