I am currently in the IBR program and am paying back my reduced monthly amount. I always try to pay extra during the month. Twice now IBR has kicked me back into standard repayment (from around $200 to almost $2000) and the people I talk to can’t seem to tell me why?? Can anyone give me any advice as to why this is happening? Am I only allowed to pay back the loan amount and no more?

Others may know better, but my general understanding is that paying extra each month in IBR will likely reduce your next month’s payment but shouldn’t trigger a change in type of repayment plan. If your student loan lender isn’t being helpful, you could always contact the Dept of Ed Office of the Ombudsman.