I have so many questions and even after speaking with our tax prep. it seems my husband and I are still lost.  I am 39yrs old.  I am a social worker in a non profit agency, my hopes were to file for IBR and then in 10yrs apply for the loan forgiveness.  Please excuse me if I am not clear in my questions.. I have researched this the entire day & I feel very “brain dead”.
My concern is this: #1 My children are at the age 15, 11 and 10.  I am scared if I file IBR on taxes (my husband and I have to file seperate) not sure if this is the best thing, since I plan to pay for 2 yrs my kids college I am concerned that I will lose too many tax credits thus making us owe.  My student loan debt combined w/my undergrad is $71,000.00

#2 I am concerned that before I make it to the 10 yr. mark for loan forgiveness that I won’t have any dependents and possibly not qualifying for IBR anymore - sending my loan payments through the roof. 

#3 It sounds like the best way to maximize the loan forgiveness is to NOT pay the interest, let it accrue therefore, having the most written off at the end of the 10 yr.  I planned on paying the interest though - but by the time I end up paying the interst ( I can’t claim education interest since I am filing seperate) & oweing at the end of the year by filing seperate I am curious to know if just repaying the darn loan ( I can’t afford standard repayment, so I would have to go the 25 yr route & just excluding the IBR all together. I’m so confused.. 

Hope you can help.. Thanks in advance for any assistance.. I am very worried.

Denise,

Unfortunately, because of the rules governing attorneys, I cannot give you advice about your personal situation.  I am only able to give general legal information.  Please see this post about my limitations: http://askheatherjarvis.com/forums/viewthread/206/

It might be a good idea for you to consult with an attorney in your state.  Information about finding one is available through the National Association of Consumer Advocates here: http://www.naca.net/

Best,
Heather